Sanno Matsuri
MatsuriKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Hie Shrine and surrounding Nagatacho/Akasaka area
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Hie Shrine and surrounding Nagatacho/Akasaka area
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedSummer is festival season in Japan. From massive fireworks shows to ancient dance traditions, here are the must-see summer festivals and practical tips for enjoying them.
Japan's best festivals don't have to cost a thing. Discover free matsuri, fireworks shows, and cultural events across every region — plus budget tips for paid events.
Japanese festivals (matsuri) are incredible cultural experiences, but they come with their own rules and customs. Learn the etiquette, what to wear, and how to fully enjoy a matsuri.
Alternate-year festival at Hie Shrine in Tokyo with an imperial procession.
Sanno Matsuri is one of Tokyo's three great festivals, held at Hie Shrine in even-numbered years. The highlight is the Shinko-sai procession on June 15, where elaborately costumed participants and portable shrines parade through central Tokyo, including a rare passage through the Imperial Palace grounds. The festival dates back over 600 years.
Sanno Matsuri takes place from 2026-06-07 to 2026-06-17.
Sanno Matsuri is held at Hie Shrine and surrounding Nagatacho/Akasaka area in Tokyo, Japan.
Yes, Sanno Matsuri is free to attend.
The admission fee for Sanno Matsuri is ¥0.
The crowd level at Sanno Matsuri is typically high.
Yes, Sanno Matsuri is held annually.
Sanno Matsuri is a matsuri festival in Japan.
Highlights of Sanno Matsuri include: Shinko-sai procession through central Tokyo and Imperial Palace area; 300-meter long parade with Edo-period costumes; Evening illumination of Hie Shrine.
Tips for Sanno Matsuri: The Shinko-sai procession on June 15 is the must-see event. The procession passes through the Imperial Palace area around noon. Note that the grand festival is held only in even-numbered years (2026 is a grand festival year)..
Sanno Matsuri welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Sanno Matsuri: 3-minute walk from Tameike-Sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza/Namboku Line) or Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. The shrine is also accessible from Nagatacho Station..
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: The Shinko-sai procession on June 15 is the must-see event. The procession passes through the Imperial Palace area around noon. Note that the grand festival is held only in even-numbered years (2026 is a grand festival year)..
Photography is generally welcome at Sanno Matsuri. Check specific rules at the venue.
Sanno Matsuri is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Sanno Matsuri typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Sanno Matsuri. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Sanno Matsuri. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 3-minute walk from Tameike-Sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza/Namboku Line) or Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. The shrine is also accessible from Nagatacho Station..
Shinko-sai procession through central Tokyo and Imperial Palace area; 300-meter long parade with Edo-period costumes; Evening illumination of Hie Shrine
3-minute walk from Tameike-Sanno Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza/Namboku Line) or Akasaka-Mitsuke Station. The shrine is also accessible from Nagatacho Station.
The Shinko-sai procession on June 15 is the must-see event. The procession passes through the Imperial Palace area around noon. Note that the grand festival is held only in even-numbered years (2026 is a grand festival year).
📍 Hie Shrine and surrounding Nagatacho/Akasaka area