Why You Should Visit
During the weekend and holiday dates of the Shunsetsu Festival, the traditional Lion Dance Caiqing is performed to ward off evil and bring good fortune. The lion dancers start around Nankinmachi Square and visit selected shops throughout the area.
【Feb 21 (Sat)】 11:00 Music 11:30 Lion Dance Caiqing 13:00 Tai Chi 14:00 Music 15:00 Dance 16:00 Music 17:00 Dragon & Lion Dance 18:00 Dance 19:00 Lion Dance
【Feb 22 (Sun)】 11:00 Music 11:30 Lion Dance Caiqing 13:00 Dance 14:00 Tai Chi 15:00 Young Lion Performance 16:00 Singing 17:00 Martial Arts Tai Chi 18:00 Lion Dance 19:00 Lion Dance
【Feb 23 (Mon / Holiday)】 11:00 Dance 12:00 Lion Dance 13:00 Dance 14:00 Singing 15:00 Lion Dance 16:00 Singing 17:00 Lion Dance 18:00 Music 19:00 Lion Dance
Essentials
- location
- Nankinmachi
- period
- February 21, 2026 (Sat) - February 23, 2026 (Mon)
- Time
- 11:00–19:00
- cost
- Free admission
- access
- 3-min walk from Motomachi Station
- NOTE
- The lion dance does not visit every shop. Schedules and times are subject to change depending on conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will events be held on time?
Will the lion dance visit all shops?
Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
GALLERY
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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
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