May is a great time to visit Tokyo, with sunny days and a lively atmosphere. With Golden Week in full swing, May is one of Tokyo’s most festive months. The city is full of color from spring flowers, local festivals, and seasonal treats. Whether you’re strolling through a park or joining a cultural celebration, there’s something special around every corner. Here’s our guide to making the most of this May!
People Browsing Various Vendors – Photo Credit: Shibuya Vintage & Artisan Market
Shibuya Vintage & Artisan Market
If you’re into second hand shopping, this market is for you! Shibuya Vintage & Artisan Market is offering a variety of vintage and handcrafted items from local artisans. It’s a great opportunity to explore unique goods and support local creators. You’ll find everything from retro fashion to one-of-a-kind accessories. When planning on visiting, make sure to go early since the best finds tend to go fast!
Date: May 4th, 2025 and May 18th, 2025
Time: 12:00 P.M. – 6:30 P.M.
Location: Shibuya Kitaya Park – 1 Chome-7-3 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041
Admission: Free
Website: https://peatix.com/us/event/4349033
Free Admission Day at Tokyo Sea Life Park
Free Admission Day at Tokyo Sea Life Park
In celebration of Greenery Day, a Japanese national holiday dedicated to appreciating nature, Tokyo Sea Life Park is offering free admission to all visitors. This annual event allows guests to explore the park’s diverse marine exhibits, including one of Japan’s largest penguin exhibitions! Whether you’re traveling with family, kids, or solo, the aquarium offers a calming escape from the city! Don’t forget to check out the massive tuna tank; it’s a crowd favorite!
Date: May 4th, 2025
Time: 9:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Location: Tokyo Sea Life Park – 6 Chome-2-3 Rinkaicho, Edogawa City, Tokyo 134-8587
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/kasai/index.html
People Lining Up At Food Stalls – Photo Credit: Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum
Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum
The Tokyo Tokyo Delicious Museum is a culinary festival celebrating Tokyo’s rich food culture. The event features three zones: the Edo Zone, showcasing traditional Japanese dishes; the Food Journey Zone, offering regional specialties from across Japan; and the Tokyo Delicious Zone, highlighting contemporary food trends from popular local restaurants. Attendees can also enjoy live music and various performances on the event’s stage. With ample seating and family-friendly amenities, the festival ensures a welcoming experience for all ages.
Date: May 16th, 2025 – May 18th, 2025
Time: 11:00 A.M. – 9:30 P.M. (until 8:30 P.M. on the last day)
Location: Symbol Promenade Park Flower Plaza – 3 Chome-7 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063
Admission: Free
Website: https://tokyotokyo-delicious-museum.jp/en/
Dry Noodle Grand Prix Poster – Photo Credit: Dry Noodle Grand Prix
Dry Noodle Grand Prix
The 6th “The Dried Noodle Grand Prix” is a culinary festival and competition celebrating Japan’s traditional dried noodles, including soba, udon, somen, and ramen. This event brings together noodle makers from across the country to showcase their unique dishes, allowing attendees to sample a diverse range of flavors and vote for their favorites. It’s a must-visit for noodle lovers looking to slurp their way through Japan’s regional specialties.
Date: May 17th, 2025 – May 18th, 2025
Time: 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Location: Central Square – 1-1 Komazawakoen, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0013
Admission: Free
Website: https://promotion.nippon-access.co.jp/event/kanmengp/
Tokyo Night Market Poster – Photo Credit: Tokyo Night Market
Tokyo Night Market
The Tokyo Night Market is a lively cultural event that transforms Yoyogi Park into a bustling marketplace. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls offering unique goods, enjoy live music and performances, and immerse themselves in art installations. The laid-back vibe makes it an enjoyable night for anyone to enjoy, perfect for spending time with friends, loved ones, or even solo! It’s a rare chance to see Yoyogi Park transform into a nighttime hub of creativity and connection.
Date: May 21st, 2025 – May 25th, 2025
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. (May 21st-23rd), 2:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. (May 24th-25th)
Location: Yoyogi Park Zelkova Trees – 1 Chome-5-11 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041
Admission: Free
Website: https://tokyo-night-market.com/202505/
Japan Cider Cup Poster – Photo Credit: Japan Cider Cup
Japan Cider Cup
The Japan Cider Cup is an annual international event celebrating the art of cider-making. It features an award-tasting competition where attendees can sample and vote on a variety of ciders from both domestic and international producers. Whether you’re a cider fan, foodie, or just curious, this gathering provides a unique opportunity to engage with cider makers and experience the diverse world of cider. With so many types of cider to try, you’re bound to discover a new favorite or two!
Date: May 31st, 2025
Time: 11:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.japancidercup.com/
Okinawa Festival Poster – Photo Credit: Okinawa Festival
Okinawa Festival
At Okinawa Festival, attendees can immerse themselves in traditional music and dance performances, savor authentic Okinawan cuisine, and explore a variety of local crafts and products. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Okinawa or discovering it for the first time, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. This family-friendly event offers a rich cultural experience, bringing the unique spirit of Okinawa to the heart of Tokyo.
Date: May 17th, 2025 – May 18th, 2025
Time: 11:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Location: Yoyogi Event Plaza – 2 Chome-3 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.yoyogikoen.info/okinawa-fes-milafete-2025/
Asakusa Shrine – Photo Credit: Asakusa Shrine
Sanja Matsuri
Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s most significant Shinto festivals, held annually during the third weekend of May at Asakusa Shrine to honor the three founders of Sensoji Temple. The festival spans three days and features food stalls, traditional music, and dynamic performances. Many gather to join or watch the parades, where the atmosphere is electric with celebration. It’s a special and unforgettable way to witness Tokyo’s deep-rooted traditions in action.
Date: May 17th, 2025 – May 19th, 2025
Time: Check the website for full details
Location: Asakusa Shrine – 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.asakusajinja.jp/en/sanjamatsuri/schedule/
Tokyo National Museum – Photo Credit: Tokyo National Museum
Free Admission at Museums – International Museum Day
In honor of International Museum Day, several museums are offering free or discounted admission to their exhibits. Take this opportunity to visit a museum you’ve never been to or revisit an old favorite. With so many options across the city, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. It’s advisable to check with individual museums for the most current information on participation and any special events planned for International Museum Day 2025.
Date: May 18th, 2025
Participating Museums:
- Tokyo National Museum – 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712
- National Museum of Nature and Science – 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8718
- The National Museum of Western Art – 7-7 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007
Websites:
- Tokyo National Museum – https://www.tnm.jp/
- National Museum of Nature and Science – https://www.kahaku.go.jp/
- The National Museum of Western Art – https://www.nmwa.go.jp/jp/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=map
Katori Shrine – Photo Credit: Kameido Katori Shrine
Kachiya Matsuri
Kachiya Matsuri commemorates the victory of Fujiwara no Hidesato over Taira no Masakado’s rebellion in 940. Prior to battle, Hidesato prayed at the shrine for success, and upon his triumph, he dedicated to naming his bow and arrow “kachiya,” which means winning arrow. The festival features a vibrant samurai procession, with participants dressed in traditional armor parading through the streets to the shrine, symbolizing Hidesato’s victorious return.
Date: May 5th, 2025
Time: 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Location: Kameido Katori Shrine – 3 Chome-57-22 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.kameido-katori.com/schedule/
People Watching Race – Photo Credit: Formula E
Formula E
The 2025 Tokyo E-Prix returns with back to back races and a strong focus on sustainability, as part of the world’s first net zero carbon sport. Formula E showcases cutting-edge electric race cars that generate energy through regenerative braking and using recycled materials in their construction. Beyond the thrill of racing, the event promotes clean energy and eco-conscious innovation, making it an exciting and forward-thinking experience for fans.
Date: May 17th, 2025 – May 18th, 2025
Time: 7:30 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Location: Tokyo Big Sight – 3 Chome-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063
Admission: Check the website
It’s a lovely time to explore Tokyo in May. Whether you’re embracing the warm weather, enjoying outdoor festivals, or tasting fresh spring foods, there’s something for everyone. Take your time soaking in the energy of the city as it shifts into early summer. It’s the ideal season to wander and let the city surprise you. No matter what you choose to do, Tokyo in May is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Featured Photo Credit: van hoenheim
Whether you’ll be enjoying the festivities in Tokyo or in Japan in general, join one of our delicious Summer Food Tours!
PIN THIS FOR LATER
