Street photography in Tokyo comes with many different benefits, but one of the most treasured elements is the Japanese festival. Although most often held during the summer time and early autumn, there are festivals than span the entire year. Sapporo, for example, has the Snow Festival held for one week during February, and there are many cherry blossom focused festivals while the blossoms have fully opened.

A key element of the festival is the yukata, a lighter version of the kimono. And just because the yukata is lighter than the colder weather friendly kimono does not mean that it is any less lovely or worth to be photographed. Because the yukata is worn most commonly during summer, the color patterns are typically brighter and carry animals and scenes that represent summer elements. In spite of the prevailing trends, traditional Japanese men and women tend to choose more muted colors, but what their yukatas lack in brightness, they make up for in depth and richness. The photos will be ones that you can only capture in Japan!

As is Japanese practice, every piece of yukata is a work of art. You could fill a camera’s entire memory card with one yukata ensemble. The kinchaku, or carrying pouch for modern contrivances such as cell phones or wallets is a vital element for both men and women, and they also carry an individual style. However important they are, they must be consistent and match the overall yukata style and presentation. This curiosity alone is a photo op and conversation starter. Collapsable or fixed fans are also essential elements of a completed yukata, and although some can be plain, some carry personal expressions of style that set them apart from the rest of the crowd.

The final and most critical element is the obi, or belt. It is part of both a yukata and kimono, and just as the belt hold the yukata together, a particularly well-chosen obi holds an individual’s conception of style together. A Tokyo Photo Tour or Kyoto Photography Tour provides ample opportunities to photograph this part of Japanese culture, and I or other Blain Harasymiw photo workshop leaders will use our experience of years living and experiencing Japan to make sure that a festival is part of your once in a lifetime experience!