Kyoto hosts various free summer festivals in August

Kyoto will host several free summer events during the weekend of August 22 and 23, 2026. Key highlights include the 52nd Takasegawa Summer Festival, which features local community activities, and the Kyoto Takashimaya Rooftop Summer Festival, offering traditional Bon Odori dances, stage performances, and food stalls.

Other scheduled activities include ‘Kyo Fest,’ an urban festival promoting traditional industries and disability art, and the Kamigamo Handmade Market held at the historic Kamigamo Shrine. Visitors can also explore special summer viewings of national treasures and important cultural properties that are typically closed to the public.