Nihombashi-Kyobashi Matsuri

The Nihombashi-Kyobashi Matsuri celebrates the historical legacy of the “Five Routes” (Gokaido) established during the Edo period. As the starting point for these provincial roads, Nihombashi remains Japan’s “Kilometer Zero,” marked by a bronze plate in the center of the bridge. The festival was established in 1972 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the current stone bridge’s completion. Held annually on the fourth Sunday of October, the event transforms Chuo-dori Avenue into a grand stage for traditional culture and commerce.

The festival’s centerpiece is the “Large Parade of the Nations,” a spectacular procession featuring over 2,000 participants. While the event is held exclusively in the Nihombashi and Kyobashi districts of Tokyo, it is famous for hosting folk dance troupes, matsuri performers, and marching bands from across the entire country. This gathering mirrors the Edo-period history of Nihombashi as a confluence point for merchants and regional travelers. Alongside the parade, visitors can explore the Shokoku-ichi (Market of the Provinces) in Nihombashi Itchome, which offers regional delicacies and specialty goods from various Japanese prefectures.

The parade typically begins in the early afternoon, moving along Chuo-dori from Kyobashi toward Nihombashi. To witness the most intense performances, such as the Awa Odori or Eisa dances, securing a spot near the core Nihonbashi bridge area is recommended. Due to the scale of the procession, the main thoroughfare is closed to vehicles, allowing pedestrians to move freely between the performance zones and the market stalls. Be aware that the market often sells out of popular regional items by mid-afternoon, so those looking for specific delicacies should visit the 1-chome stalls before the parade reaches its peak.