Celebrate Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa (May 16–18)
If you're in Tokyo this May, you're in for something truly unforgettable.
One of the city's most thrilling and traditional festivals, Sanja Matsuri, will take place from Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the historic Asakusa Shrine in Taito City, Tokyo.
✨ What Is Sanja Matsuri?
Sanja Matsuri (三社祭), meaning "Three Shrines Festival", is one of Tokyo’s biggest and most energetic traditional festivals. Held at Asakusa Shrine, right next to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, it honors the three founders of the shrine.
During the festival, more than 100 portable shrines (mikoshi) are carried through the streets by locals. Dressed in colorful traditional clothing, they march, chant, and dance through Asakusa’s neighborhoods.
You’ll hear the powerful chant of “Wasshoi! Wasshoi!”—a traditional shout that energizes the crowd and unites the carriers. It’s a sound that truly brings the festival to life!
📅 When & Where
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Dates: May 16 (Fri) – May 18 (Sun), 2025
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Main Location: Asakusa Shrine (浅草神社), Taito-ku, Tokyo
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Closest Station: Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro, Toei Line)
🎉 Highlights You Can’t Miss
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Friday (May 16): Sacred Shinto rituals mark the beginning of the festival.
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Saturday (May 17): Around 100 mikoshi from the local neighborhoods fill the streets—this is the most action-packed day!
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Sunday (May 18): The three grand mikoshi of Asakusa Shrine make their spectacular journey, the true climax of the event.
🧭 Tips for First-Time Visitors
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Get there early to grab a good viewing spot.
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Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and standing a lot!
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Bring some cash for snacks, drinks, and festival souvenirs.
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Be respectful—it’s a religious event as well as a celebration.
🏮 Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Sanja Matsuri is the heartbeat of Tokyo’s festival season.
It’s a powerful mix of tradition, community pride, and pure energy. Whether you’re a culture lover, a curious traveler, or a festival fan, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
🚄 Getting to Tokyo? Ride the Shinkansen!
No matter where you are in Japan, getting to Tokyo is fast and easy with the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Come from Kyoto, Osaka, Nagoya—or even further—on one of Japan’s most iconic train journeys.
Book your Shinkansen tickets with us, and arrive in time to catch all the excitement of Sanja Matsuri!
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Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.