July 2025 Events in Japan

Miyako Odori

Celebrate spring in Kyoto with the annual Miyako Odori, a performance by Kyoto's geisha.

Yabusame Shinji

See the beauty and grace of horseback archery up close

Kamo Kurabeuma Horse Racing Ritual

The Kamo Kurabeuma Horse Racing Ritual at Kamigamo Shrine is an ancient celebration featuring sacred horse races and traditional rituals.

Kōdai-ji Temple Spring Illuminations

Kyoto's Kōdai-ji Temple features one of the city's most stunning springtime illuminations, complete with projection mapping and Zen vibes.

Ninnaji Flower Festival

See the cherry blossom festivals at Ninnaji Flower Festival.

Kyotographie International Photography Festival

An international photography festival around Kyoto exploring the theme "Source".

Aoi Matsuri

Expect to see men on horseback, ornate carts, and women in kimono.

Kankame-Inari Yomiya Festival

See geisha entertain the locals at this very small festival in Kyoto.

Mifune Festival

Gander at traditional boats floating down the river carrying musicians and performers.

Kamogawa Odori

This is the last of Kyoto's spring geisha dances.

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

Discover handmade treasures and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Kyoto’s Umekoji Handicrafts Market, a monthly gathering of artisans and creators.

Kyoto Art Fireworks

One of Kyoto's biggest fireworks festivals with a creative twist.

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

Discover handmade treasures and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Kyoto’s Umekoji Handicrafts Market, a monthly gathering of artisans and creators.

Minato Maizuru Chatta Fireworks Festival

This event finishes with a display of fireworks launched from a ship in the bay.

Gion Festival 2025

Gion Festival is a month-long festival in Kyoto.

Kyoto Honganji Temple Bon Dance

Modern music meets traditional at this Bon Odori dance just north of Kyoto Station.

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

Discover handmade treasures and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Kyoto’s Umekoji Handicrafts Market, a monthly gathering of artisans and creators.

Kameoka Hozugawa Fireworks

This festival is as famous for its fireworks as it is the beautiful food stalls which are illuminated at night.

Kyoto Gozan no Okuribi 2025

See the mountains light up with symbolic bonfires.

Miyazu Tōrō Nagashi Fireworks

Lantern floating and fireworks make a magical evening in Shimazaki Park near Kyoto.

Nijō Castle NAKED Summer Festival 2025

The art collective NAKED are doing what they do best and turning another historical landmark into a fun, festival paradise.

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

Discover handmade treasures and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Kyoto’s Umekoji Handicrafts Market, a monthly gathering of artisans and creators.

Kamigamo Shrine Sumo Festival

Visit Kamigamo Shrine for the sumo wrestling and unique traditional ceremonies.

Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair 2025

Proof that Kyoto isn't just about old buildings and tradition.