Events

Upcoming events and festivals in Kyoto

Aug 28–29, 2026

Saiin Kasuga Shrine Wakachū Bon Odori 2026

Saiin's neighborhood Bon Odori — two nights, hundreds of lanterns, yukata perks, and a yoyo-fishing corner for the kids.

Aug 7, 2026

A guided pub crawl through three Kiyamachi bars and a club. Open-bar warm-up, free club entry — show up solo, leave with a crew.

Aug 23, 2026

Full-band R&B, Soul, and Funk at Kobe's Garage Paradise — the kind of set that doesn't roll through twice.

Aug 7–16, 2026

Release your wishes into the night sky with 3,500 LED lanterns at this magical Tanabata celebration in Joyo, Kyoto.

Aug 1–16, 2026

Wade through an icy shrine stream by lantern light at Kitano Tenmangu — Kyoto's most refreshing summer purification ritual.

Aug 6, 2026

60 men rush into a sacred pond at Shimogamo Shrine to grab arrow talismans for good health — pure Kyoto chaos.

Aug 16, 2026

Five giant bonfire characters on Kyoto's mountains bid farewell to Obon spirits on Aug 16.