May is here, and summer is just around the corner. To kick off the month, we’ve rounded up a variety of events to explore, from traditional matsuri to flower festivals and snack markets. Read on to discover more, and don’t miss our May 2026 Events Google Map for even more happenings.

 

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Tokyo

 

Tokyo Architecture Festival 2026

 

 

The Tokyo Architecture Festival 2026 invites you to explore the city from a new perspective, with over 200 buildings opening their doors across Tokyo, including many spaces usually closed to the public. From iconic landmarks like Suntory Hall and the Mitsukoshi Theater to lesser-known architectural gems, the festival offers a rare glimpse into spaces that reflect Tokyo’s history, culture, and innovation. Guided tours and special programs provide deeper insight into the stories and history behind these buildings. 

 

Image courtesy of TOKYO ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL.

 

📍 Various locations

📅 May 16 ~ 24

💰 Free entry for some locations*

 

*Some venues are free, while others require advance reservations or fees, so be sure to check the official website before visiting.

 

For full details of the event, please check their official website.

 

 

 

Flower Festival 2026

 

 

Flower Festival 2026 at Showa Kinen Park celebrates the arrival of spring with a vibrant display of seasonal blooms from late March to late May. As the weeks progress, the park transforms with cherry blossoms, tulips, shirley poppies, and other flowers coming into peak bloom one after another. With its ever-changing scenery, it’s one of the best spots in Tokyo to experience spring in full bloom.

 

Image courtesy of Showa Kinen Park.

 

📍 Showa Kinen Park

📅 until May 24

💰￥450 (adults)

💰￥210 (aged 65 and over)

💰 Free for junior high and younger

 

For full details of the event, please check their official website.

 

 

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Kanazawa

 

Bon Bon Oyatsu Market

 

 

Bon Bon Oyatsu Market is bringing together an exciting lineup of bakeries from across the Hokuriku region. “Oyatsu” means snacks in Japanese, and this market is dedicated entirely to them. Expect a tempting spread of sweet treats, including scones, cookies, muffins, cakes, donuts, and French pastries, making it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

 

Image courtesy of Bon Bon Oyatsu Market.

 

📍 AL. Plaza

📅 May 2 ~ 6

💰 Free Entry

 

For full details of the event, please check their official Instagram.

 

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Fukui

 

Mikuni Festival

 

 

The Mikuni Matsuri is a historic spring festival held annually from May 19 to 21 in Fukui, with its main events taking place on May 20. Centered around Mikuni Shrine, it dates back to the mid-Edo period and is considered one of the Three Great Festivals of the Hokuriku region. The highlight is a procession of towering floats, some reaching over six meters in height, each intricately crafted to depict figures from Japanese history and folklore. It’s not to be missed if you’re in the Hokuriku region.

 

Image courtesy of Mikuni Matsuri.

 

📍 Mikuni Shrine

📅 May 19 ~ 21

💰 Free entry

 

For full details of the event, please check their official website.

 

 

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That’s our roundup for May! Whether you’re planning ahead or exploring on the go, we hope this guide helps you make the most of the season. Be sure to check out our full May events Google Map for even more to explore!

 

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