Why You Should Visit
February 17, Lunar New Year’s Day, marks the opening of the Nankinmachi Shunsetsu Festival. From the opening prayer and ceremony at 10:30, the day features face-changing and acrobatic performances by the Tokyo Chinese Song & Dance Ensemble, children’s performances, lion dance, Tai Chi, live music, and a dynamic Southern Dragon Parade marching from Motomachi to Nankinmachi.
【February 17 Schedule】 10:30 Opening Prayer 11:00 Opening Ceremony 11:15 Face-changing (Tokyo Chinese Song & Dance Ensemble) 12:00 Children’s Performance 12:30 Acrobatics (Tokyo Chinese Song & Dance Ensemble) 13:30 Lion Dance 14:30 Face-changing 15:30 Tai Chi 17:30 Music Performance 18:30 Acrobatics
Essentials
- location
- Nankinmachi Square and surrounding areas
- period
- February 17, 2026 (Tue)
- Time
- 10:30–18:30
- cost
- Free admission
- NOTE
- No Shunsetsu Festival events are held from February 18 to 20.
Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
GALLERY
WHY VISIT
Nankinmachi, one of Japan's three major Chinatowns alongside Yokohama and Nagasaki. Though compact, it's an exotic area filled with colorful decorations and the aroma of Chinese cuisine. From street food to authentic Chinese dishes, especially bustling on weekends. The red 'Chang'an Gate' and pavilions are classic photo spots.
Street Food
Xiaolongbao, pork buns, and more
Exotic Atmosphere
Streets lined with red gates and lanterns
Festivals and Events
Traditional Chinese events like Spring Festival
PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE
BEST SHOTS
- — Front view of Chang'an Gate
- — Atmosphere of streets with lanterns
- — Close-up of street food
BEST TIMING
- — Around noon (lively and photogenic)
- — Weekend crowds
- — During festival periods
Weekends are crowded; weekday mornings recommended
ESSENTIALS
- Best Time
- Around noon (lively and photogenic)
- Suggested Duration
- About 30 min
- Access
- 3-min walk from Motomachi Station
- Accessibility
- Close to station and easy to walk





