Guida
October 10th marks the "Double Tenth Day" (Shuangshi Jie), one of the most significant and grandest celebrations held in Yokohama Chinatown. On this day, the entire district transforms into a high-energy festival filled with the rhythmic sounds of firecrackers and the majestic performances of lion dances. It is a rare and precious opportunity to feel the authentic heat and passion of traditional Chinese festivities right in the heart of Yokohama, Japan.
Double Tenth Day is a day steeped in historical significance. Known as the "Double Tenth" due to the date (October 10th), it is a time when people gather to honor traditional customs and rituals. It serves as a vital milestone for the community to strengthen cultural ties and celebrate their heritage through shared traditions and festivities.
The true magic of this event lies in the diverse performances that evolve throughout the day. The festivities begin with energetic sports meets in the morning, followed by a grand celebratory parade featuring groups dressed in magnificent, colorful costumes. As evening approaches, the focus shifts to the lion dance processions. You can witness the traditional "Cai Qing" (plucking the green), where dancers perform ritualistic movements to collect symbolic offerings in front of shops. The combination of the intense drumbeats and the sight of the parade creates an unforgettable, powerful spectacle.
The excitement begins to build around 8:00 AM. The morning is characterized by lively community activities and sports, while the afternoon brings the grand parades and traditional arts. The climax of the event occurs in the late afternoon and evening as the lion dances circulate through the streets of Chinatown. Since the festivities continue until approximately 8:30 PM, we recommend visiting at different times to enjoy the changing atmosphere of the festival.
This is not just an event to watch, but an experience to feel. You will be surrounded by the dynamism of Chinese culture through the sensory impact of the loud firecrackers, the intricate movements of the lion dancers, and the vibrant colors of the parade participants. It is a full-sensory journey through tradition.
The festivities take place throughout the Yokohama Chinatown area, primarily focusing on the main streets where the parades and lion dances pass through. The area is surrounded by a vast array of restaurants and shops, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while soaking in the festive spirit.
As large crowds are expected, we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please be aware that the sound of firecrackers can be quite loud; those sensitive to noise should prepare accordingly. For payments, most local shops and restaurants accept cash, credit cards (Visa/MasterCard), and major transportation IC cards. While basic English communication is possible in many establishments, service levels may vary. No prior reservation is required for the event, but please prepare for heavy crowds.