One of the most popular events in Tokyo, Asakusa Samba Carnival, is an annual festival held on a Saturday in late August or September. It consists of a vibrant parade followed by dance performances in the downtown Asakusa area. The carnival was initiated in 1981 when the winning dance group from Rio Carnival was invited to Tokyo to dance samba by the mayor of Taitō City.
Asakusa Samba Carnival starts around 2 pm and continues until about 6 pm. It attracts about 500,000 attendees annually. It's advised to come early to get a good viewing spot along the route. The parade goes along Kaminarimon Dori street. The area around Kaminarimon Gate of Sensoji Temple is the most popular to see the parade and take pictures.
Be prepared to see dozens of colorful floats with dancers and other performers in the most incredible costumes with feathers, sparkly fabrics, and exotic ornaments. Some outfits also bear Japanese popular culture elements. Many musicians, singers, and dancers walk around the area, performing very close to the audience. Overall, the festival features over 3,500 dancers, including Brazilian groups and samba enthusiasts from all over Japan. Dancing groups compete for prizes in several categories.
