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Ikebukuro's Autumn Tradition, the "59th Fukuro Festival," Is Held ！

Toshima Ward will hold its annual “59th Fukuro Festival,” a traditional ward festival held every fall primarily around the Ikebukuro West Exit, over four days: September 26 ・ and 27 as Part 1 “Festival of Mikoshi” on September 26 27, and Part 2, the “Festival of Dance,” on October 10 ・ 11, for a total of four days.

A vibrant autumn tradition in Ikebukuro “Fukuro Festival”
The Fukuro Festival began in Showa 43, spearheaded by local shopping districts and neighborhood associations, with the goal of making the area—amid ongoing development around Ikebukuro Station—a lively town that could rival other downtown districts in Tokyo.

During Part 1, the “Mikoshi Festival,” the first day serves as a pre-festival celebration featuring various performances, including dance and live band performances. On the second day, the main festival features the “Evening Mikoshi” grand parade, in which 15 mikoshi participate; over 3,800 bearers process through the streets of Ikebukuro to the rhythm of traditional festival music.

In Part 2, “The Dance Festival,” 107 teams—approximately 5,000 participants—will perform Yosakoi dances and other dance routines over the course of two days. In addition, during the “Tokyo Yosakoi Contest” held on the second day, teams will compete for prizes with their elaborate and spectacular performances.

Furthermore, the Toshima City Sister Cities Tourism and Products Fair will be held at Ikebukuro West Exit Park exclusively during the two days of the “Festival of Dance.” A total of 30 vendors—16 from sister cities and 14 others—are scheduled to participate. During these two days, visitors will not only be able to enjoy the dances but also sample local specialties from various regions, such as Nagano and Miyagi Prefectures.

Comment from a ward official
Regarding the event, a ward official stated, “The Fukuro Festival is one of the largest festivals in the ward and has become a fall tradition. Local shopping districts ・, businesses ・, and organizations all come together to create a lively atmosphere—please come to the venue and experience the unique energy and bustle that only the Fukuro Festival can offer,” said a ward official.

“59th Fukuro Festival” Event Overview
Schedule
Part 1: [Mikoshi Festival] September 26 (Sat) ・ and 27 (Sun), Reiwa 8　

Part 2: [Dance Festival] Reiwa 8, October 10 (Sat) ・ 11 (Sun)　

Venues
Ikebukuro West Exit Station Plaza, Ikebukuro West Exit Park Venue, Azalea Street Venue, and others

Organizer
Fukuro Festival Council

Co-organizers
Toshima Ward, Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture, Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre

Fukuro Festival Official Website
https://www.yosakoitokyo.gr.jp/

*The event will take place rain or shine. Please check the official website for event details.