The Asagaya Tanabata Festival, held since 1954 to delight shoppers during Tokyo’s humid summers, is famed for its incredible hanging sculptures. The nearly kilometer-long covered arcade becomes an enchanting gallery of giant, handmade paper-mâché (haribote) figures dangling from the ceiling. The festival always draws a large, enthusiastic crowd, and navigating the bustling walkway to see every creation can be a delightful challenge.
An unplanned Asagaya Tanabata Festival
My visit in 2018 was unplanned. I had taken my camera to work, but had no idea where I’d go once my shift had ended. As I left my office, I decided on Asagaya and arrived on a hot and humid Sunday, still in my work clothes after a day of teaching. Though the heat and crowds were exhausting and I was drenched in sweat, the experience was worth it. The joy of photographing the incredible artistry and soaking in the lively atmosphere is a reward in itself.
The world of paper-mâché
Pop culture and satire
The only limit to the paper-mâché designs is imagination. The characters, crafted with immense effort by local shop owners, range from beloved pop culture icons to timely satirical figures. In 2018, the displays were as diverse as ever, featuring Chewbacca from Star Wars alongside King Tut. In a humorous nod to current events, figures of Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un were seen in a friendly embrace.
Familiar faces and missing friends
While some characters are new and surprising, familiar faces often return to greet festival-goers. Perennial favorites like Doraemon, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Anpanman could be spotted amidst the vibrant decorations. However, part of the fun is seeing which characters will make an appearance. For instance, Johnny Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow, a regular in previous years, was notably absent in 2018.
Plan your visit
If you’re looking for a unique experience in August, the Asagaya Pearl Center is the place to be. Beyond the spectacular paper-mâché art, many shops set up stalls selling delicious food and drinks, adding to the festive mood. It’s a fun-filled event that perfectly blends tradition with modern creativity. To learn more about this event look at [Asagaya Tanabata Festival Guide].
My photography gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T2
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR