As the scorching days of summer reach their peak in August, Japan comes alive with unique events that embrace the season’s essence. Centered around the Obon holiday, which usually falls around August 13th to 16th, there are captivating fireworks displays, refreshing summer festivals, and more.
Here, we present a diverse array of events in the Tokyo area, including open-air beer gardens, outdoor music festivals, and traditional festivities designed to help you beat the heat.
Each event allows you to experience the true essence of a Japanese summer. So, if you’re planning a trip to Tokyo in August, be sure to explore these offerings for an unforgettable summer experience!
Meiji Jingu Gaien Forest Beer Garden (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
The “Forest Beer Garden” is one of Tokyo’s premier beer garden events held annually at Meiji Jingu Gaien. With a selection of seven beers, including KIRIN Ichiban Shibori and Heartland, it offers a delightful variety for beer enthusiasts. Thanks to the prefabricated refrigerated storage system, the draft beer remains perfectly chilled even during the sweltering summer days. For those seeking alternative beverages, there are options like Kirin Whisky “Riku,” lemon sour, white wine, red wine, and even apple and mandarin juices, all available for unlimited consumption.
The dining experience is centered around a barbecue-style setup, where guests can order the “Assorted Meat Platter” featuring seasoned lamb slices, beef kalbi, pork belly, and long sausages, as well as the “Assorted Vegetable Platter” with cabbage, carrots, and shishito peppers to grill on the tabletop teppan (iron griddle). The menu also boasts classic Japanese izakaya staples like fried potatoes, yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), edamame, and grilled onigiri (rice balls), all part of the all-you-can-eat selection.
The venue provides around 1,000 seats, including 600 seats under tents, ensuring a worry-free experience even on rainy days. Nestled in an unexpectedly lush setting amidst the urban landscape, guests can revel in the abundance of greenery while savoring delightful food and drinks, making the most of their summer nights.
Tokyo Tower Highball Garden (Minato Ward, Tokyo)
The Tokyo Tower hosts a beer garden event where visitors can indulge in a selection of highball cocktails and delicious gourmet dishes that complement them, all offered by Suntory, a Japanese company renowned for producing and selling Western spirits, beer, and refreshing beverages.
The event takes place in two locations: the “Foo…
