Yoyogi Park Event & Highlight 2025: Tokyo's Green Oasis of Seasonal Experiences
Yoyogi Park is a lush urban oasis located in the heart of Tokyo, a special place where seasonal nature and diverse international events come together. As a Japanese person, I want to convey the unique charm of this park to tourists from overseas.
Yoyogi Park was developed on the site of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics athletes' village and is a green space in the middle of the city, just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya.
In spring, about 700 cherry trees bloom spectacularly, summer brings music festivals and cultural events, autumn colors the park with vibrant foliage, and in winter, magical blue illuminations enchant visitors.
On the other hand, crowds can be extremely large during cherry blossom season on weekends and during major events, making it difficult to enjoy the park at a leisurely pace. Also, mosquitoes are abundant in summer, so don't forget to prepare insect repellent spray. On rainy days, puddles tend to form in some areas, but this too will become a valuable experience of Tokyo's nature.
In this article, I will introduce seasonal events and highlights at Yoyogi Park in 2025 in detail. During your stay in Tokyo, I hope you'll visit events at this charming park and experience Tokyo's seasons and culture together with local people!
Table of Contents
・What is Yoyogi Park?
・Overview of Yoyogi Park's 2025 Events by Season
・Yoyogi Park's Spring 2025 Event Information (March-May)
・Yoyogi Park's Summer 2025 Event Information (June-September)
・Yoyogi Park's Autumn 2025 Event Information (October-November)
・Yoyogi Park's Year-End 2025 Event Information (December)
・Places to Visit Along with Yoyogi Park Events
・Access to Yoyogi Park
What is Yoyogi Park?
Yoyogi Park is a vast urban park representative of Tokyo, located in Shibuya. This park has an interesting historical background as it was built on the site of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics athletes' village. When I want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, I often visit this park, and once I step into its vast grounds, I forget that I'm in the center of Tokyo.
Various types of plants are planted in the park, allowing visitors to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, green shade in summer, autumn colors in fall, and solemn landscapes in winter. What I particularly like is observing how the trees change their appearance with each season.
One of the biggest attractions of Yoyogi Park is that admission is free. It's a valuable spot for travelers who want to casually drop by during their Tokyo sightseeing. Access is also very convenient, just a 3-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station and a 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yoyogi-koen Station.
Events in the park are often held in the area called "Event Plaza." Event times vary, but the park itself is open 24 hours, so it's nice that you can enjoy early morning or evening walks.
Overview of Yoyogi Park's 2025 Events by Season
Yoyogi Park is a vibrant place where various events are held throughout the year.
To help all of you visiting Tokyo plan events to enjoy according to your visit timing, I'll briefly introduce seasonal events and highlights scheduled for 2025. From spring cherry blossoms to winter illuminations, you can fully experience Japan's seasons and culture at Yoyogi Park.
Spring 2025 Events & Highlights (March-May)
Spring at Yoyogi Park can truly be called a highlight of Tokyo tourism. What I look forward to every year is the sight of about 700 cherry trees (various types including Somei Yoshino, Kawazu-zakura, and Yamazakura) in full bloom. They're at their best from late March to early April, and the park is crowded with cherry blossom viewers. I personally make it an annual event to spread a sheet with friends and have a picnic under the cherry blossoms.
In spring, culturally diverse events such as "Salsa Street" and "Spring Love Harukaze" celebrate the arrival of spring. The sight of people dancing to Latin music and enjoying cuisine from around the world makes me feel like I'm on a world trip while still in Tokyo.
Environmentally conscious events are also plentiful, with "Outdoor Day Japan" and "Earth Day Tokyo" offering experiential workshops and markets where you can learn about nature and the environment. As a place to learn about environmental issues in a fun way, I often visit these events.
Even after the cherry blossom season ends, the park's new greenery serves as a vast urban oasis where you can enjoy nature's transitions over an extended period. The mild spring climate is comfortable and perfect for picnics and walks. Spring in Yoyogi Park offers a special time that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Summer 2025 Events & Highlights (June-September)
Summer at Yoyogi Park features a lineup of international events that symbolize multicultural coexistence. I was particularly moved by the open atmosphere of the "Pride Parade & Festival" and "Africa Heritage Festival." The sight of people from various backgrounds gathering to celebrate diversity symbolizes Tokyo's aspect as an international city.
As a music lover, music festivals like "Earth Garden Summer" and "J-WAVE presents INSPIRE TOKYO" are events I can't miss. I can spend a luxurious time enjoying live performances surrounded by pleasant greenery and shopping at unique markets.
For those interested in traditional Japanese culture, I recommend the Bon dance at "Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri" and "Shibuya Summer Park." There's an atmosphere where even first-timers can easily participate. I've participated several times, and the sight of Japanese and foreign people dancing together is very heartwarming.
Tokyo's summer heat can be severe, but Yoyogi Park has plenty of green shade, making it an ideal environment to seek coolness in the heart of the city. Also, the disaster prevention festival "Moshimo FES Shibuya" is an educational event where you can learn about disaster prevention while having fun. As an event unique to Japan, which experiences many natural disasters, it will be a valuable experience for foreigners.
Autumn 2025 Events & Highlights (October-November)
Autumn at Yoyogi Park is, for me, the second most beautiful season of the year after spring. Various trees like ginkgo, Japanese maple, and zelkova change color, and you can enjoy the autumn foliage from early November to mid-December. Unlike the cherry blossom season, which passes in about a week, the autumn colors can be enjoyed for a longer period, which is attractive.
There are colorful autumn foliage spots scattered throughout the park. The ginkgo avenue at Harajuku Gate shines golden, the Japanese maples around the fountain pond turn deep red, and the zelkova trees in the central plaza change to orange. This is precisely the season when I stroll through the park with my camera. Taking out my DSLR camera and enjoying photo shoots with friends against the backdrop of autumn colors has become an annual ritual.
In terms of events, seasonal events themed around food and flowers, such as the "Hokkaido Fair" and "Rose Festa," are held. I especially look forward to the Hokkaido Fair, where I can taste delicious ingredients and specialty products from Hokkaido while in Tokyo. Dishes using fresh Hokkaido seafood and dairy products are so delicious that I go to eat them every year.
This season, with its mild climate ideal for strolling and picnicking, provides a comfortable environment for touring the vast park. Charity events leading up to the Christmas season, such as the "Santa Parade Tokyo," can also be enjoyed at Yoyogi Park in autumn.
Year-End 2025 Events & Highlights (December)
At the end of the year, Yoyogi Park transforms into a fantastical world with the "Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA" illumination. When I first saw it, I was breathless at its beauty. The Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue is decorated with blue lights, giving you the feeling of stepping into another world. Taking friends and family to see this illumination has become one of my winter pleasures.
At "Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri SHIBUYA Christmas," giant Christmas trees and beautiful decorations adorn the park. It's an event that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to adults and is especially popular with families with small children. I've taken my nieces and nephews there before, and seeing the children's happy faces alone made the visit worthwhile.
In winter, deciduous trees lose their leaves, showing an open landscape not usually visible. Experiencing the blue sky visible between the trees and the quietness in the middle of the city is also a charm unique to winter. The convenient location also makes it easy to combine with preparations for the New Year and a visit to Meiji Shrine for the first shrine visit of the year, so please include it in your plans.
Yoyogi Park's Spring 2025 Event Information (March-May)
Spring, the season of cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, is one of the most beautiful and bustling times at Yoyogi Park. Especially from late March to April, the park is filled with energy from cherry blossom viewers. I make sure to visit every year during this season and enjoy viewing the cherry blossoms, forgetting the hustle and bustle of the city.
Even if you miss the best time for cherry blossoms, various events are held, making it an easy season to enjoy Yoyogi Park to the fullest. Spring at Yoyogi Park is full of attractions that will keep you entertained all day.
Cherry Blossoms Are a Must-See from Late March to April!
Spring at Yoyogi Park begins with the cherry blossom season. About 700 cherry trees are planted in the park, allowing you to enjoy various types of cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino, Kawazu-zakura, and Yamazakura, all at once. It has become my tradition to visit the park with my camera in the early morning to capture the beauty of the cherry blossoms illuminated by the morning sun.
With a vast area of about 540,000 square meters, Yoyogi Park offers a natural environment in the heart of the city, perfect for picnics and strolls while viewing the cherry blossoms.
My favorite activity is to spread a sheet with friends, bring homemade rice balls and seasonal Japanese sweets, and enjoy cherry blossom viewing at a leisurely pace. No matter where you set up in the park, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the cherry blossoms, but the cherry tree avenue around the central plaza is especially spectacular.
The best time to see the cherry blossoms is usually from late March to early April. The park is particularly crowded during the peak bloom period, so I recommend visiting on weekdays or in the early morning or evening on weekends. In my experience, weekday mornings are relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the cherry blossoms at your own pace.
March 2025 Featured Events
Salsa Street 2025 -Viva la Primavera- (March 15-16)
Source: Official website
"Salsa Street 2025 -Viva la Primavera-" is an international festival where you can experience Caribbean and Latin American culture, held at Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue on March 15-16, 2025. I look forward to this event every year, and the time spent dancing to the rhythm of Latin music is truly a release from daily life.
At the venue, you can enjoy delicious sauces, cuisine, music, dance, and a diverse culture over two days.
What's interesting about this event is the international atmosphere where multiple languages including Japanese, English, Spanish, and Portuguese fly around. It's a precious opportunity to enjoy a foreign atmosphere while in Tokyo, so it's highly recommended for foreign tourists. I feel it's a wonderful event where you can interact through music and dance beyond language barriers.
This festival, which already has a 10-year history, has established itself as an event celebrating diversity that can be enjoyed with family and friends. I've visited with my family before, and the program is so rich that it can be enjoyed by everyone from children to adults, allowing you to spend the whole day without getting bored. When making memories in Japan, I encourage you to visit this colorful and vibrant event.
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Dates: Saturday, March 15 - Sunday, March 16
Time: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue area
Website: https://wsavannast.com/events/salsa-street/
Spring Love Harukaze 2025 (March 29-30)
Source: Official website
"Spring Love Harukaze 2025" is a festival held at Yoyogi Park themed around music, art, and a sense of gratitude. What I particularly like about this event is that you can enjoy art in harmony with nature. The time spent immersing myself in music in the spring park as the cherry blossoms begin to bloom is an irreplaceable experience.
Various artists and performers appear at this event, allowing you to enjoy music that transcends genres. When I participated in the past, I was able to experience various performances from jazz to rock to traditional Japanese instrument performances, creating an atmosphere of a true music festival.
The well-stocked shop area is also attractive, offering opportunities to encounter organic foods, handmade accessories, art works, and diverse cultures.
As a seasonal festival where you can enjoy the pleasant music and art celebrating the arrival of spring, it's popular not only with Japanese people but also with foreign tourists. Since the event continues into the night, you can also enjoy Yoyogi Park in a different atmosphere from daytime. For those visiting Tokyo during the cherry blossom season, this is one event I'd definitely like you to attend.
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Dates: Saturday, March 29 - Sunday, March 30
Time: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM (March 29-30), 9:00 PM - 5:00 AM (some events on March 29)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://harukaze.asia/
April 2025 Featured Events
Outdoor Day Japan Tokyo 2025 (April 5-6)
Source: Official website
"Outdoor Day Japan Tokyo 2025" is the country's largest experiential outdoor event. For me as an outdoor enthusiast, this event is nothing short of an annual grand event. This event, where you can actually handle and experience the latest camping equipment and outdoor gear, is truly heaven for outdoor lovers.
It also provides educational opportunities to learn about the importance of connecting with nature and the environment through various activities and workshops.
This event has content that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people from outdoor beginners to enthusiasts. For those traveling in Japan, it will be a good opportunity to experience Japanese outdoor culture. Many small items and unique Japanese outdoor goods that you can take home are also sold, so it's recommended for those looking for unique souvenirs.
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Dates: Saturday, April 5 - Sunday, April 6
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://outdoorday.jp/
Earth Day Tokyo 2025 (April 19-20)
Source: Official website
"Earth Day Tokyo 2025" is an environmental festival aimed at realizing a sustainable society. As part of a global event participated in by about 500 million people in 175 countries worldwide, this event held in Tokyo is an important annual event that I, with high environmental awareness, never miss.
This event, which began in 1970 and has been held in Japan with Yoyogi Park as the main venue since 2001, has a long history and tradition. I first participated in this event during my student days, and that experience has become the trigger for my continued awareness of the environment to this day.
This event provides an opportunity to think about a future living with the Earth and is a place where you can learn about practical initiatives for environmental conservation. For foreigners visiting Japan, it will also be a good opportunity to learn about Japan's environmental initiatives and awareness. It's filled with programs that can be enjoyed not only by those interested in the environment but also by others, so please visit.
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Dates: Saturday, April 19 - Sunday, April 20
Time: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.earthday-tokyo.org/
May 2025 Featured Events
OKINAWA FES Milafete 2025 (May 17-18)
Source: Press release
"OKINAWA FES Milafete 2025" is the rebranded version of the Kanto region's largest Okinawa event, "OKINAWA Matsuri." This free event, held at Yoyogi Park on May 17-18, 2025, has become an annual highlight for me as an Okinawa enthusiast.
It's a comprehensive cultural festival where authentic Okinawan culture, including music, traditional performing arts, cuisine, and local products, comes together. When I first participated, I was captivated by the live performance of the Okinawan sanshin (three-stringed instrument) and traditional dance, and I've been a fan of Okinawan culture ever since. You can also enjoy authentic Okinawan cuisine at this event.
This event, where all visitors can feel like "Uchinanchu" (Okinawan people), is two days where you can experience the atmosphere of Okinawa in its entirety.
Even if you can't go to Okinawa's blue sea and white beaches, please visit this event where you can feel Okinawan culture and the warmth of its people in Tokyo.
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Dates: Saturday, May 17 - Sunday, May 18
Time: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://x.com/okinawamatsuri
Tokyo Night Market 2025 (May 21-25)
Source: Official website
"Tokyo Night Market 2025" is a popular event held at Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue that attracts many visitors from Japan and abroad. When I first visited this event, I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by its energy and diverse stalls. The market, which begins at dusk, envelops the park in a completely different atmosphere from daytime.
Various food booths and unique shops line the venue, creating a culinary festival where you can taste street food from around the world. As a night market with high entertainment value, where you can also enjoy music live performances and other performances, it has expanded in scale with each iteration and has become a talked-about event.
This event, where you can spend a special nighttime in a fantastical atmosphere different from daytime, is becoming established as an early summer feature of Tokyo. Weekends are quite crowded, so I recommend visiting on weekdays when it's relatively less crowded.
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Dates: May 21-25
Time: Wednesday, May 21 - Friday, May 23: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Saturday, May 24 - Sunday, May 25: 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue area
Website: https://tokyo-night-market.com/
Laos Festival (May 24-25)
Source: Official website
"Laos Festival" is a special cultural exchange event held at Yoyogi Park Event Plaza to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos.
I have an interest in Southeast Asian cultures and value opportunities to experience different cultures through such events. Although I didn't know much about Laos, I was fascinated by its rich culture and history through this festival.
Various cultural exchange events are planned in abundance, with content that can be enjoyed by a wide range of age groups from adults to children. Also, since the period overlaps with the Night Market, it's possible to enjoy both events in one day.
I've done that before, and it was a luxurious time experiencing the cultures and cuisines of various countries in one day. For those who want to spend an internationally colorful weekend in Tokyo, this is an event I'd definitely recommend.
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Dates: Saturday, May 24 - Sunday, May 25
Time: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://laos-festival.jp/
Yoyogi Park's Summer 2025 Event Information (June-September)
Summer at Yoyogi Park is full of energy. It's a season when it feels good to participate in park events as the temperature rises. I especially look forward to outdoor music festivals concentrated during this period, and I often spend weekends at Yoyogi Park with friends.
Since many events from July onwards are still undecided, this article will be updated accordingly. When planning your visit to Japan, I recommend checking the latest information.
June is the rainy season, so don't forget to prepare rain gear. I always carry a folding umbrella and raincoat to be prepared for sudden rain.
From July, it becomes very hot during the day, so please enjoy the events while staying hydrated. In my experience, a day at Yoyogi Park in summer consumes more energy than expected, so frequent breaks and hydration are essential.
June 2025 Featured Events
Pride Parade & Festival 2025 (June 7-8)
Source: Official website
The "Pride Parade & Festival 2025," organized by the NPO Tokyo Rainbow Pride, has changed its name from "Tokyo Rainbow Pride" to "Tokyo Pride" and will be held in June 2025 to align with the global Pride Month.
I participate in this event every year, and I'm always touched by its open and inclusive atmosphere. It becomes an opportunity to realize the importance of having a space where everyone can be themselves regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
With the theme "Same Life, Same Rights," various events are held to consider LGBTQ+ understanding and human rights. At the venue, booths by various organizations and supporters line up, providing information and selling goods. What's particularly impressive is that many companies participate, promoting the importance of diversity in Japanese society. Whenever I witness such social changes, I feel that Japan is gradually changing too.
The Pride Parade & Festival will be held at Yoyogi Park on June 7-8, with other events also planned, including those for youth generations, art-related events, and Human Rights conferences. The parade in particular is spectacular, with participants walking through the streets of Shibuya in colorful costumes and with flags, creating a scene that symbolizes Tokyo's diversity.
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Dates: Saturday, June 7 - Sunday, June 8
Time: TBD
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://tokyorainbowpride.org/
Africa Heritage Festival 2025 (June 21-22)
Source: Official website
"Africa Heritage Festival 2025" is an international cultural exchange event where you can experience "living Africa" with all five senses, including African culture, food, lifestyle, music, dance, art, and fashion. When I first visited this event, I was overwhelmed by its vivid colors and vibrant atmosphere. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the diverse cultures of the African continent while in Tokyo.
This event is a place for international exchange where Africans and Japanese cooperate, and it also works on business matching between Japan and Africa.
This event, which conveys the charm of "Africa Heritage (what has been inherited from Africa)," is also an educational event that provides opportunities for children in particular to broaden their perspectives globally.
As a good example of an international exchange event in Japan, I recommend visiting.
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Dates: Saturday, June 21 - Sunday, June 22
Time: Saturday, June 21: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last order 6:30 PM), Sunday, June 22: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Last order 6:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Outdoor Stage
Website: http://africaheritage.jp/festival/
July 2025 Featured Events
Earth Garden Summer (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Earth Garden Summer" is a community festival held four times a year each season, proposing an organic and ecological lifestyle.
At Yoyogi Park, a market area is set up offering products that form the basis of living, such as craft works with nature motifs and apparel and goods made from natural materials.
At the Organic Life Cafe, delicious food and drinks are served, and it's a comprehensive event where you can also enjoy diverse stage content such as live performances, DJs, and dance.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on July 6-7)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM on the first day, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM on the last day)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.earth-garden.jp/
J-WAVE presents INSPIRE TOKYO (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"J-WAVE presents INSPIRE TOKYO" is an urban culture festival with the theme "From Tokyo to the World!" combining music and markets. As a J-WAVE listener, this event has become a summer feature for me as a music lover. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience Tokyo's creative culture scene all at once.
It consists of two main areas: the [LIVE FIELD] at the National Yoyogi First Gymnasium and the [MARKET FIELD] throughout Yoyogi Park. The standard pattern is to enjoy live performances by famous artists and then enjoy meals and shopping in the market area of the park. Every year, I spend the day buying nice accessories at the daytime market and enjoying live performances from the evening.
More than 100 markets and free live spaces are set up in a vast space utilizing Yoyogi Park Event Plaza, Outdoor Stage, and Zelkova Avenue. The food area is also well-equipped, allowing you to enjoy meals from various genres, from trendy restaurants to traditional Japanese cuisine. Even in the summer heat, the environment is set up so you can enjoy your meal leisurely in the shade.
The summer event also includes Bon dance, making it a unique event where traditional Japanese culture and modern culture fuse. For foreign visitors, it's a perfect opportunity to experience contemporary Japanese pop culture.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on July 13-15)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM)
Admission: Paid
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza, Zelkova Avenue, First Gymnasium
Website: https://www.j-wave.co.jp/special/inspire2024winter/
August 2025 Featured Events
Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri TOKYO Bon Dance Festival (Date TBD)
"Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri TOKYO Bon Dance Festival" is a festival that introduces the charm and culture of Japan's regions and provides a place for interaction between tourists from within and outside Japan and local residents. When I first visited this event, I rediscovered the wonder of Japanese summer festivals seeing people of all ages enjoying Bon dance together.
With the theme "Festival of Food Culture and Bon Dance," a food fair is held where you can enjoy traditional Japanese food and regional cuisine. At this festival gathering gourmet food from all over the country, you can taste local specialty dishes that are usually hard to find.
It's a comprehensive event where visitors from around the world gather and can enjoy Japanese food culture along with traditional Bon dance performances. What's particularly impressive is the sight of foreign tourists dancing the Bon dance in a circle with local elderly people for the first time. Even if they don't understand each other's languages, the way exchange is born through rhythm and movement embodies the beauty of cultural exchange.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on August 2-4)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.furusatotokyofes.com/
Shibuya Summer Park (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Shibuya Summer Park" is a summer event gathering the attractions of Shibuya with the themes of "Inheriting" (inheritance of culture), "Connecting" (Shibuya Ward and culture), and "Spinning" (uniting diverse cultures into one). I love this event's open atmosphere and diverse programs, and I incorporate it into my summer plans every year.
Held around Yoyogi Park Event Plaza and Outdoor Stage, it's a comprehensive festival featuring various stage events, kids' events, art exhibitions, and sales and food booths. From workshops for children to live performances for adults, it offers programs that can be enjoyed regardless of age or nationality.
It's an urban festival where various cultures such as music, fashion, and sports cross over, and you can enjoy diverse live performances and art activities. In a space where Shibuya's street culture and the park's nature merge, you can spend a fulfilling time that makes you forget the summer heat of Tokyo.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on August 10-12)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza, Outdoor Stage
Website: https://sspa.tokyo/
Moshimo FES Shibuya (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Moshimo FES Shibuya" is a participatory disaster prevention and mitigation event in collaboration between Shibuya Ward and the "Moshimo Project," where you can see, eat, play, and learn. Living in Japan, which experiences many natural disasters, this event has become a valuable opportunity for me to raise my awareness of disaster prevention. It's wonderful that you can learn while having fun, and it's an event that families can also enjoy.
This event, targeting everyone living, working, or visiting Shibuya, is a comprehensive disaster awareness festival that both adults and children can enjoy. What I found particularly impressive was the corner where you could experience actual evacuation shelter life. Experiencing the difficulties of living in a limited space significantly raised my awareness of disaster prevention.
It's an event full of innovations where you can learn about disaster prevention and mitigation while having fun, including collaborations beyond TV station boundaries and character participation. For foreigners traveling in Japan, it will also be a good opportunity to learn about Japan's disaster prevention culture.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on August 31 - September 1)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza, Zelkova Avenue
Website: https://moshimo-project.jp/fes2024/
September 2025 Featured Events
Truck Festa TOKYO (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Truck Festa TOKYO" is an event aimed at widely informing Tokyo residents about the social role of green-numbered trucks and initiatives in the logistics industry, raising awareness of safety and environmental conservation.
When I first learned about this event, it became an opportunity to think about logistics, an important industry that supports our lives. It's an industry I don't usually pay much attention to, but I realized it's making very interesting efforts.
This event, held at Yoyogi Park, promotes understanding of the industry through experiential events, truck driver contests, and award ceremonies for green eco projects.
It's rich in general participation projects such as truck photo contests and truck dance video contests, with exhibitions and awards for winning works.
Although it may seem like an event with a niche theme at first glance, it's actually a valuable opportunity to learn about the logistics industry, which is closely related to our lives, while having fun. It's recommended for foreigners interested in Japan's efforts as a logistics powerhouse.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on August 31 - September 1)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.totokyo.or.jp/festa/online/
PEACE DAY (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"PEACE DAY" is a celebratory event held at Yoyogi Park Event Plaza on September 21, the "International Day of Peace," aiming to realize world peace. When I first participated in this event, I was impressed by the sight of people of various nationalities and generations thinking and talking about peace. I think it's an event where you can feel the diversity unique to Tokyo as an international city.
Various guests committed to world peace gather, developing diverse programs including music live performances, talk sessions, and events around candles. In the past, notable musicians, artists, and peace activists have participated, and talk sessions where they speak about peace from their respective perspectives were impressive. I particularly learned a lot from the discussions by panelists with different cultural backgrounds.
It provides opportunities to think about peace from various perspectives, such as "Okinawa and Peace," "Thinking about Peace Across Borders and Generations," and "Peace Education." It's a place where you can naturally confront themes that you don't often have the opportunity to think deeply about, such as Japan's efforts for peace and what should be learned from past history.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on September 21)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://peaceday.jp/2024/fes/
Yoyogi Park's Autumn 2025 Event Information (October-November)
Autumn at Yoyogi Park is a comfortable season along with spring. I frequently visit the park in between work during this period.
The autumn foliage is particularly beautiful, and compared to cherry blossoms, the viewing period is longer, making it easier to enjoy the park's nature. You can enjoy the autumn colors for about a month from early November to mid-December, which is a different charm from cherry blossoms that scatter in a short period. Also, it's a nice point that the autumn foliage season is not as crowded as the cherry blossom season.
There can be large temperature differences during this season, so clothing that's easy to adjust is recommended. I combine a thin sweater and cardigan to adapt to temperature changes.
It can get cold in the mornings and evenings, so having a jacket is reassuring. In autumn at Yoyogi Park, various events are held in addition to the autumn foliage, so please include them in your plans.
Autumn Highlight: Enjoy Autumn Foliage Viewing at Yoyogi Park!
Every year when this season comes, I look forward to touring the autumn foliage spots in the park with my camera. At Yoyogi Park, you can enjoy various types of autumn foliage, including ginkgo, Japanese maple, and zelkova. The contrast of colors created by the yellow of ginkgo and the red of Japanese maple is spectacular and has become my favorite photo spot.
The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from early November to mid-December, allowing you to enjoy the coloring over a long period. This is a big advantage compared to the cherry blossom season, with the benefit of making it easier to plan trips. What I particularly like is the beauty of autumn leaves illuminated by the morning or evening sun. If you visit in the early morning or evening, you can view leaves colored more vividly by the light.
There are several popular autumn foliage spots in Yoyogi Park. The ginkgo avenue to the right of Harajuku Gate is a spectacular sight as it turns golden. The Japanese maples around the fountain pond turn deep red, and the zelkova trees in the central plaza change to orange. This is precisely the season when I walk around the park with my camera. Taking out my DSLR camera and enjoying photo shoots with friends against the backdrop of autumn foliage has become an annual ritual.
Yoyogi Park, with an area of about 540,000 square meters, provides an optimal environment for enjoying autumn foliage while strolling. The big attraction is that you can immerse yourself in nature in a spacious area. I think the goodness of Yoyogi Park is that you can enjoy autumn foliage viewing at your own pace, unlike crowded tourist spots.
October 2025 Featured Events
Hokkaido Fair in Yoyogi (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Hokkaido Fair in Yoyogi" is a traditional event celebrating its 34th time as "The Hokkaido Food Road," offering authentic tastes of Hokkaido with about 80 booths exhibited in the largest outdoor scale. When I first visited, led by a friend from Hokkaido, I was overwhelmed by its scale and richness of food. Since then, it has become an annual ritual that I never miss.
Gathering only exhibitors with headquarters or bases in Hokkaido, it's an authentic food festival where you can enjoy Hokkaido specialties such as seafood and meat. Seasonal Hokkaido crab, fresh seafood bowls, Jingisukan (grilled lamb), soup curry, soft serve ice cream, and more of Hokkaido's deliciousness are gathered.
Special projects such as "Weekday Special Servings" and "Stage Events" are also implemented, providing content that allows you to experience Hokkaido's charm from multiple angles, not just food.
For tourists, it's also an excellent opportunity to learn about regional food culture in Japan. For those planning to visit Hokkaido in the future, I recommend finding your favorite food at this event and using it as a reference for meal plans when you actually visit Hokkaido.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on October 3-6)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM)
Admission: Free (Food is paid)
Venue: Yoyogi Park Outdoor Music Hall Front Plaza
Website: https://www.hokkai-syokudo.jp/yoyogi/
Autumn Rose Festa (Date TBD)
Yoyogi Park's popular event "Autumn Rose Festa" is an event that can be enjoyed in two parts: daytime and outdoor cinema. I discovered this event by chance several years ago while walking in the park. Led by the scent of roses, I visited and was captivated by their beauty and rich fragrance, and it has since become an event I look forward to every year.
Free programs are abundant, including rose tours, fragrant rose exhibitions, and rose photo exhibitions. On the tour around the park with rose experts, mini fertilizer samples are presented.
As a paid program, there's a workshop to make original sachets (scent bags) using 8 types of beads that reproduce the scent of roses (1,000 yen per piece), and seasonal limited gourmet items such as rose juice and rose floats are also offered.
I've experienced making sachets before, and the process of creating your preferred scent was very enjoyable. I still cherish and use the sachet I made.
For the evening part, an outdoor cinema showing "The Biggest Little Farm," dealing with environmental issues, is held, allowing you to watch movies on the Flower Land lawn while feeling nature. The experience of watching a movie surrounded by fragrant roses under the starry sky is very special and makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a perfect event to visit with lovers or friends on a cool autumn night.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on October 27)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
Admission: Free (Some programs are paid)
Venue: Yoyogi Park Rose Garden
Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/yoyogi/news/2024/10_27.html
November 2025 Featured Events
Furusato Shibuya Festival (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Furusato Shibuya Festival" is Shibuya Ward's largest-scale event held at Yoyogi Park in November. Since the first event was held in 1978, it has been a historic gathering of residents, now celebrating its 46th time. This festival with a long history can be said to be an important cultural event that has watched over the changes in Shibuya Ward.
Aiming to form "Shibuya, a town to be proud of," it's a place of regional solidarity where residents and the ward have developed as one, with the purpose of expanding circles of meeting, contact, and exchange. The sight of people of all ages gathering to deepen community connections is heartwarming.
It's a comprehensive regional event where various tent groups participate, including exhibitions and consultations, shopping street bazaars, food and drink, attractions, urban exchange, sports, and children's zones.
This event, created by the entire region, will also be a valuable experience for foreign tourists to feel the bonds of Japanese local communities. It's an opportunity to touch the daily lives of local people that aren't found in tourist guidebooks.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on November 2-3)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.shibuya-fes.online/
Santa Parade Tokyo (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Santa Parade Tokyo" is a charity event with the theme "Share Our X'mas ~ The Day Everyone Can Become a Real Santa ~," supporting children in Japan fighting illness and children overseas who need medical care.
I've been participating with friends for several years, and I think it's a wonderful event where you can feel the joy of running in Santa costumes and at the same time contributing to society.
Participants wear Santa Claus costumes and start from Yoyogi Park, parading through Park Street and Meiji Avenue, with participation fees being utilized for children's medical support. The sight of the streets being filled with red Santas is spectacular, making passersby smile and enveloping the entire town in a warm atmosphere for that moment.
When I participated in the past, there was heartwarming interaction where tourists were surprised but took pictures with us and cheered us on.
As a project with the concept "Children's Dream Charity Supporting Children," it's planned and operated primarily by about 30 junior high, high school, and university students, promoting social participation of young people. The attitude of the younger generation leading efforts to address social issues is very inspiring, and it's an event where you can feel the high awareness of young people who will lead the next generation.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held on November 17)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
Admission: Free entry (Participation in the run is paid)
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://santarun.jp/
Yoyogi Park's Year-End 2025 Event Information (December)
December is the season of Christmas and illuminations, and many of Yoyogi Park's events are related to this. During this season, I make my way to see Yoyogi Park's lighting after work. The park enveloped in fantastical blue light is a special space that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Snow rarely falls in Tokyo during this season, but it gets colder than autumn, so I recommend enjoying events with proper cold weather preparations. I bring hand warmers and warm drinks to cope with the cold while enjoying the events.
Winter Yoyogi Park is attractive for its beautiful illuminations and quiet appearance, becoming a precious spot that calms the heart during the busy year-end.
Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA (Blue Cave SHIBUYA) (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Ao no Dokutsu SHIBUYA (Blue Cave SHIBUYA)," one of Japan's largest illumination events visited by more than 15 million people in total, started as "Nakameguro Blue Cave" and celebrates its memorable 10th anniversary this year. The emotion I felt when I first saw this illumination in 2024 is still vivid in my memory. The tunnel of blue light felt like wandering into another world, a mysterious experience.
For the 10th anniversary in 2024, the highlight was the appearance of "Ao no Dokutsu - THE SNOW DOME -," a giant spherical balloon appearing at the Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue venue. This spherical balloon, inspired by a snow dome, featured a special mechanism with performances merging light and video, beautifully coloring the Christmas season.
After dusk, a fantastical space decorated with blue light spreads out, enveloping the entire town of Shibuya in blue, providing a special experience to visitors as a winter feature. I recommend visiting right after sunset. The sight of blue light gradually beginning to shine during the "magic hour" when the sky is still slightly bright is particularly beautiful and perfect for taking photos.
The event content for 2025 has not been announced yet, but this illumination, which evolves every year, will surely deliver new surprises and emotions.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, it was held from December 6 to December 25)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Admission: Free
Venue: From Shibuya Park Street to Yoyogi Park Zelkova Avenue
Website: https://shibuya-aonodokutsu.jp/
Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri SHIBUYA Christmas (Date TBD)
Source: Official website
"Furusato Tokyo Ouen Matsuri SHIBUYA Christmas" is a seasonal Christmas event held at Yoyogi Park. I look forward to it every year as a winter feature with beautiful illuminations and giant Christmas trees decorating the venue. It's a warm event that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city, a place where you can spend special time with friends and family.
A gourmet area is set up, offering warm food and drinks welcome in the cold season, so you can enjoy meals while experiencing the Christmas atmosphere.
Entertainment such as music live performances is also abundant, making it a comprehensive Christmas event packed with content that can be enjoyed with family and friends.
In Japan, Christmas is considered a special day for couples, but this event has content that can be enjoyed by various people, including families and groups of friends. It's a recommended event for foreign tourists who want to experience the atmosphere of Christmas in Japan.
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Dates: TBD (In 2024, the first part was held from December 13 to December 18, and the second part from December 21 to 25)
Time: TBD (In 2024, it was 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM on weekdays, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM on weekends)
Admission: Free entry (Food is paid)
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Plaza
Website: https://www.furusatotokyofes.com/
Places to Visit Along with Yoyogi Park Events
I'll introduce attractive spots around Yoyogi Park that are good to visit in combination with participating in events. I personally always make sure to drop by these spots when visiting Yoyogi Park.
If you have a little time, you can experience various faces of Tokyo at once by taking advantage of the park's proximity, which is a big attraction of this area.
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is one of Japan's largest shrines adjacent to Yoyogi Park, popular as a sacred forest in the middle of the city. I particularly like visiting in the early morning when walking through the precincts enveloped in silence cleanses my heart.
With a vast site of about 70 hectares and an artificial forest with more than 100,000 trees planted, stepping in makes you forget you're in Tokyo with its quietness.
The biggest attraction of Meiji Shrine is that you can experience traditional Japanese Shinto culture in a quiet space surrounded by a vast forest. What's particularly impressive is the time walking along the approach after passing through the large torii gate. The beauty of the sunlight filtering through the nearly 100-year-old trees lining both sides of the approach changes its expression with the seasons, especially magnificent during the fresh greenery of early summer and the autumn colors.
It's also one of Japan's foremost power spots, visited by more than 1 million people for the first shrine visit of the year from January 1 to 3. It's extremely crowded during that period, but there's something special about experiencing the New Year in a sacred atmosphere. Meiji Shrine, where you can enjoy Edo-period shrine architecture and learn the etiquette of visiting the main shrine, is also a valuable destination for foreign tourists who want to touch Japanese spiritual culture.
Harajuku & Takeshita Street
Harajuku & Takeshita Street is a globally famous street as a source of youth culture, about a 7-minute walk from Yoyogi Park. Especially on weekends, Takeshita Street is bustling with young people from both within and outside Japan, a special place where you can feel Tokyo's pop culture firsthand.
Shops representing Japan's kawaii culture, crepe shops, and photo booths line up. Especially famous are the crepes. With more than 30 variations, these volume-packed crepes with plenty of fruit, fresh cream, chocolate, etc., are so popular that lines form. My favorite is the combination of strawberry and banana, and it's become a tradition to share it with friends.
Weekends are bustling with many teenagers, and you can observe the latest trends in Japanese street fashion. Especially on Sundays, it sometimes becomes a pedestrian paradise called "Hokoten," bustling with even more people. The attire of fashion-sensitive young people is often eye-catching, making it popular as a photo spot.
Omotesando Hills
Omotesando Hills is a sophisticated commercial facility designed by international architect Tadao Ando, about a 12-minute walk from Yoyogi Park. As an architecture enthusiast, I'm attracted to the high design quality of this facility.
It's a popular spot for fashion lovers, from global luxury brands to Japanese designer brands. While I mainly window shop, items found here would make great memories for special day shopping.
The surrounding Omotesando area is dotted with unique boutiques and art museums, making it worthwhile to stroll around taking your time. Especially in the area called Ura-Harajuku, creative select shops and cafes gather, making it enjoyable just to stroll around. For those who want to feel the cutting edge of Tokyo's fashion and design, Omotesando Hills and its surroundings are must-visit spots.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a world-famous crowded intersection about a 15-minute walk from Yoyogi Park, appearing in many movies and dramas as a symbol of Tokyo's urban nature.
As one of the world's largest intersections, the wave of people at the moment the signal turns green is spectacular. Just watching the sight of people starting to move simultaneously from various directions when the signal changes allows you to feel the dynamism of the city. I particularly like Shibuya Scramble Crossing on rainy days, fascinated by the unique scene created by the wave of umbrellas.
The views from "MAGNET by SHIBUYA109" or "Shibuya Scramble Square," which overlook the intersection, are perfect for taking photos. Especially from the observatory "SHIBUYA SKY" at Scramble Square, you can view not just the intersection but a 360-degree view of Tokyo's cityscape, enjoying completely different expressions during the day and night. I like to visit at sunset, and the sight of Tokyo gradually beginning to light up has a special beauty.
For foreign tourists who want to experience Tokyo's modern aspect, Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a must-visit spot. However, please be careful with your belongings as there are also crowded times.
Access to Yoyogi Park
Access to Yoyogi Park is very convenient, and you can easily visit from Tokyo's major stations. I also use it frequently, but the most convenient is access from JR Yamanote Line "Harajuku Station." It's about a 3-minute walk from Omotesando Exit to reach the park.
Also, it's about a 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line "Yoyogi-koen Station."
Other access points include about a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line "Meiji-jingumae <Harajuku> Station" and about an 8-minute walk from Odakyu Line "Yoyogi-hachiman Station," making it accessible from multiple lines. There are clear guide signs from any station, so even first-time visitors can arrive without getting lost.
You can also walk from Shibuya or Harajuku, combining it with a stroll. Especially the route going toward Yoyogi Park through the tree-lined path continuing from Omotesando in Harajuku is a recommended course where you can enjoy the gradual transition from the hustle and bustle of the city to nature. I often take this flow of shopping and then resting in the park.
Yoyogi Park is a special place where you can enjoy seasonal nature and diverse events while located in the heart of Tokyo.
I feel that one of the attractions of Yoyogi Park is that it functions as a place for multicultural exchange, gathering many people from both within and outside Japan, especially during events.
If you combine event participation with visits to popular spots around such as Meiji Shrine, Harajuku & Omotesando, and Shibuya, you can experience Tokyo's multifaceted charm all at once. I recommend checking the highlights of each season in advance and choosing the optimal visit time according to your travel plans.
Please use this article as a reference to have an irreplaceable experience at Yoyogi Park in 2025!
