May 15 〜 May 17
The Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s most electrifying and boisterous celebrations, held every May at the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Honoring the three founders of the temple, this high-energy event draws millions of spectators over three days. The atmosphere is thick with the scent of street food and the rhythmic chants of “wasshoi” as hundreds of participants clad in traditional hanten coats shoulder massive, swaying mikoshi (portable shrines). Beyond the main procession, the festival features rare performances of Binzasara Mai, an ancient dance using wooden percussion instruments, and vibrant displays of traditional Edo spirit.
