Kyoto and Tottori host free weekend events July 11‑12, 2026

Kyoto will offer a series of free events over the weekend of July 11‑12, 2026, including the 15th‑anniversary Yase Eiden Summer Festival, the 15th Kyoto Night Market with food stalls and nighttime illumination, a pre‑festival Hōkibiki ceremony allowing public participation, and a pottery‑focused market at Senbon Shakado. Additional attractions such as a lantern light‑up at Higashiyama and special night‑time temple viewings are also scheduled.

In Tottori, weekend activities feature the 15th Garo White Squid Festival with food stalls, games and fishing experiences, a 100‑day earthquake‑experience exhibition showcasing rescue vehicles, the Tottori Waku‑Waku FES offering free workshops and talks, and a birthday celebration for the prefecture’s mascot Trippy at Dream Minato Tower. Both prefectures provide free admission and public transport links to encourage family outings.

These events aim to boost local tourism during the summer season and provide cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.