オフィシャル

Yukata de Gin-bura is a summer tradition held annually in the heart of Ginza. The term "Gin-bura" comes from the Japanese phrase meaning “to stroll leisurely through Ginza,” and the event invites people to do just that—while dressed in yukata—to enjoy a refreshing escape from the summer heat. First held in 2007, this year marked the 19th edition of the event.

At the heart of the festivities is the Dai-Ginza Bon Odori (Grand Bon Dance), which takes place around a raised stage (yagura) set up in front of Matsuya Ginza department store. There are also food stalls featuring classic flavors from Ginza’s well-known eateries, traditional performances like taiko drumming, photo spots, and even exhibits of patrol cars and fire trucks presented by the Tsukiji Police and Kyobashi Fire Departments.

With limited-time deals and special services offered by local shops, the whole district joins in to create a festive atmosphere. It’s an inclusive event that can be enjoyed by people of all ages—from children to adults—and even by international visitors.

The day before the event saw heavy rain, so I was concerned it might be canceled. But thankfully, the weather turned around, and we were met with clear skies that felt distinctly like summer. The sun was intense and the humidity high, but since the festivities began at 4 p.m., the heat had somewhat eased by then, and the occasional breeze made it more bearable.

Chuo-dori, Ginza’s main street, was closed off to vehicles and transformed into a pedestrian paradise. With no traffic to worry about, everyone could stroll freely and take in the atmosphere. Yukata-clad visitors filled the street—friends, couples, families—each enjoying the city in their own way, bringing a seasonal charm to the urban setting.

 I took this opportunity to wear a yukata myself and join the crowd. When you're in a yukata, you naturally start to notice others’ attire—the way they tied their obi belts, their accessories, their choice of patterns and colors. You can feel the individuality and care put into each outfit. Just watching people pass by was a joy in itself.

There’s something truly special about seeing so many people in yukata gathered in Ginza. The contrast between the traditional attire and the modern architecture and storefronts creates a visually striking scene that evokes the essence of a Japanese summer.  Wearing a yukata also brings a subtle shift in mindset. You find yourself standing a bit straighter, walking more gracefully, and becoming more aware of your surroundings. Even in the heat, the yukata has a way of looking and feeling cool. It’s one of those rare outfits that can transform not only how you look, but how you carry yourself.

To walk through Ginza in a yukata on a summer evening—that’s the kind of quiet luxury that Yukata de Gin-bura offers. It’s a refreshing break from the everyday, and a chance to experience the city in a new, elegant light. I’m already looking forward to joining the event again next year, yukata and all.

If you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. You just might see a different side of Ginza—one that only appears in the heart of summer.