This vibrant video provides an immersive look at Kanda Matsuri’s Shinko-sai parade, one of Tokyo’s most historic and celebrated festivals. Filmed on May 10, 2025, the video follows the festivities in and around Kanda Myojin Shrine, as well as at key locations in Akihabara including the Electric Town and Maid Street. Kanda Matsuri is recognized as one of the ‘Three Great Festivals of Edo’ and is known for its grand parades, colorful floats, and deep community involvement.

The footage begins at Akihabara Electric Town South Exit and travels through central Akihabara under the train tracks, passing vibrant areas such as Maid Street and Hongo Dori. Viewers will witness impressive scenes from the parade, including performances featuring costumed warriors from the Bando Musha Gyoretsu (samurai parade), the Soma Nomaoi horseback warriors, and floats dedicated to Japanese folklore characters such as Daikoku-sama, Ebisu-sama, Urashima Taro, and Hanasaka Jiisan. Traditional portable shrines (mikoshi) are also an essential part of the celebration, as groups of locals carry them through the lively streets.

Continuing to Kanda Myojin, the video captures the return of the parade, performances from the Tokyo University of the Arts samba team, and festival stalls lining the shrine’s entrance and approach. Notable festival highlights include the self-tied Edo traditional hairstyle demonstration, sento bathhouse-themed festival floats, and various food and game stalls that create a festive atmosphere. Kanda Myojin Shrine—historically a guardian shrine for Edo (old Tokyo)—sits close to Akihabara and has deep spiritual and cultural significance for the city.

Whether you are interested in experiencing Tokyo’s urban culture, curious about Japanese festivals, or planning to see a Matsuri in person, this video provides a street-level perspective on one of Japan’s most engaging events. Both Akihabara’s contemporary pop culture and the ancient traditions of Kanda Myojin converge in this unforgettable annual celebration.