Cool off from Japanese summer in Nihonbashi

People from the Edo Period (1603-1868) had various ways of staving off the summer heat. Whether it was enjoying a wind chime, goldfish scooping, drinking sweet, fermented rice drinks or wearing a yukata, the Japanese from hundreds of years ago had their traditions. Now, an annual event in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, is providing the opportunity for you to experience these Edo-style traditions.

Nihonbashi was known as the Edo’s (old Tokyo) business center and still plays a pivotal role in the commerce of modern Japan. Though the buildings in this area might have changed and evolved over the year, you’ll find the traditional Japanese feel remains.

Many of the shops and restaurants in Nihonbashi have been around for hundreds of years and offer a taste of Edo. Enjoy the unchanged flavor of the matcha tea, wagashi confectionary, senbei rice crackers and unagi eel and soba noodle dishes in the district.

Through Sept. 4, step into the traditional atmosphere at Eco Edo Nihonbashi 2022 where guests are invited to “Enjoy ‘Cool Edo’ with All Five Senses.” Eco Edo is an annual event, and it is making its comeback after being on hiatus for two years due to the pandemic.

To enjoy the traditional feel, stroll the area in yukata casual summer kimonos. You can buy a set of yukata or ask for assistance to get yourself dressed at the six kimono shops in the district. (website).

If you are in yukata, don’t forget to show the screen of the special site of “Kimono Passport” at shops or eateries in the district, as that will get you various discounts and services.

Be sure to drop by several photogenic wind-chime spots and check out the sound of cool wind made by 200 wind-chimes (website).

Cool off in the Edo way at this fun summer event in Tokyo’s business center Nihonbashi!

ECO EDO Nihonbashi 2022
WHERE: Nihonbashi District in Tokyo
Period: Until Sept. 4
COST: Free
URL
Tel: 03-3242-0010