Tokyo’s Historic Festival Returns With a Splash
Because this full-scale festival only happens once every three years, the 2026 return is a big deal. It takes place in the neighborhoods of Tsukuda and Tsukishima, which sit on an old island area built by Edo-period fishermen — meaning that everything here is tied to maritime history.
The standout moment is a wild ritual where locals carry a massive mikoshi (portable shrine) right into the river water. Bearers trudge through the river while shouting and hoisting the heavy shrine, and crowds on the banks throw buckets of water at them for good luck. It is a rare look at Tokyo’s old waterfront culture.
