The very first Oedo Kakki Parade took place in 1972 to commemorate the completion of the National Highway.
Every year since, a grand parade of over 2,000 performers departs from Kyobashi Station along Chuo Dori at around 11:20. The first group consists of local organizations and governmental agencies and the second group, departing at around 11:45 is made up of various traditional festival dances from 20 districts all over Japan. The street market features local specialties from prefectures all over Japan. It's a wonderful opportunity to sample delicacies not readily available in Tokyo.
The Nikkyo Parade pays tribute to the history of Nihonbashi, the terminal for people traveling from every corner of Japan via the 5 major highways connected to the capital Edo (now Tokyo). It is a celebration of the same vibrant atmosphere that naturally happens when people come together.
Getting there
The parade will start near Kyobashi station, pass Nihonbashi station and finish near Mitsukoshimae station along Chuo Dori Street. The street market will be held in one of the streets near Nihonbashi station (heading towards Tokyo Station).
Sherilyn Siy @sherilyn.siy
For Sherilyn Siy, Asia is home. Born in Hong Kong, Sherilyn spent time in the Philippines, China, and now lives in Japan. She speaks English, Filipino, Chinese (or putonghua), and Hokkien, her family's local dialect. Running is one of her favorite ways to explore Japan. She proudly finished the 2...
