Guide
Double Tenth Day (known as Shiju-setsu in Japan) is one of the most significant and grandest annual events held in Yokohama Chinatown on October 10th. On this day, the entire district transforms into a high-energy celebration filled with the rhythmic sounds of firecrackers and the striking movements of lion dances. It is a rare and precious opportunity to feel the intense vitality of traditional Chinese festivities while staying right in the heart of Yokohama, Japan.
Double Tenth Day is a day of great historical significance. It is named after the date, October 10th, and is a major celebration for the community. The event serves as an important milestone for people to honor traditional customs and rituals, fostering deep cultural connections and community ties through shared heritage and celebration.
The highlights of this event change throughout the day, offering a diverse range of performances. The festivities begin with energetic activities like sports meets in the morning, followed by a grand celebratory parade featuring groups dressed in elaborate, colorful costumes. As evening approaches, the focus shifts to the lion dance processions. You can witness traditional rituals such as 'Cai Qing' (plucking the green), where the lion dancers interact with shops to bring good luck. The sight and sound of the parade moving alongside the crackle of firecrackers create a truly powerful and immersive spectacle.
The excitement begins to build around 8:00 AM. The morning is characterized by lively community activities and sports, while the afternoon transitions into grand parades and traditional performing arts. The climax of the event occurs in the late afternoon and evening as the lion dance troupes parade through the main streets of Chinatown. Since the festivities continue until approximately 8:30 PM, we recommend visiting at different times to experience the evolving atmosphere of the festival.
This is not just an event to watch, but one to feel with all your senses. The sheer energy of the crowds, the intricate movements of the lion dancers, the colorful traditional costumes, and the thunderous sound of firecrackers echoing through the streets offer a dynamic way to experience Chinese culture. It is a sensory-rich experience that brings the history of the district to life.
The event takes place throughout the Yokohama Chinatown area. The main parades and lion dance processions move through the primary streets of the district. The area is surrounded by a vast array of restaurants and shops, allowing you to enjoy delicious local cuisine while soaking in the festive spirit of the streets.
As heavy crowds are expected, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing. Please be aware that the loud sounds of firecrackers are a central part of the celebration; if you are sensitive to loud noises, please take necessary precautions. For payments at local shops and eateries, most establishments accept cash, credit cards (Visa/MasterCard), and various IC cards. While basic English communication is possible at many locations, English support varies by shop. No prior reservations are required for the event, but please prepare for significant crowds and high-energy environments.