Play, Eat, and Celebrate! Oh! MATSURI Global Edition Brings Summer to Life

We’re excited to share the highlights from our sizzling summer festival “Oh! MATSURI – Global Edition ~” held this July!

With the playful theme “A day to play, eat, and feel the Japanese summer with the world”, the celebration unfolded in two vibrant acts: the “Global Edition” by day and the “Japan Edition” by night. From morning to evening, guests dove into unique experiences both inside and outside the hotel—tasting new flavors, playing festival games, and soaking in the summer vibes.

The energy was electric as hotel guests mingled with locals, creating a lively, colorful atmosphere that lasted from the first taiko drumbeat to the last sparkling lantern light. It was a true summer day to remember!

Daytime – Global Edition (12:00–16:00)

During the day, flavors and games from across the globe filled the scene with excitement. It wasn’t just hotel guests and locals who joined in—the crowd also included a group of curious children from a nearby nursery school, who gathered eagerly outside to witness Shibuya’s very first rickshaw. The buzz grew as the mini rickshaw tours, offered on a first-come, first-served basis, whisked guests through the neighborhood. From the carriage, the children’s laughter and wide-eyed smiles told the story—this was a ride they’d never forget.

The rickshaw experience was provided by Kicchoya WAZAOGI, a professional team based in Asakusa that usually offers special rickshaw rides to many international guests. This was their very first appearance in Shibuya!

On the day of the event, both locals and hotel guests were fascinated by the sight of a rickshaw rolling through the streets of Shibuya.

Those who rode the rickshaw said they enjoyed seeing Shibuya’s cityscape from a completely different perspective.

Inside the hotel, stalls served foods and drinks from various countries, and festival-style games for all ages lined the space. It became a moment of exchange across nationalities and generations. For guests from abroad, it was a rare chance to experience a Japanese summer festival; for local residents, it was a fresh opportunity to connect with cultures from around the world.

With the scents and flavors of different cultures filling the air, and photo spots and festival games sparking interaction, the hotel remained full of energy throughout the entire afternoon.

Evening – Japan Edition (17:00–22:00)

As the sun set, the lively daytime energy gave way to a more refined, enchanting atmosphere. Warm lights glowed across the space, music floated through the air, and the festival took on a sophisticated charm. The evening kicked off with a kagami-biraki—Japan’s traditional sake barrel-opening ceremony—bringing guests and staff together in a shared moment. Wooden mallets came down in unison, the lid gave way, and the aroma of fresh sake filled the air. Applause and cheers erupted, and with a grand toast, the night’s celebrations officially began.

The highlight of the evening was Shibuya’s very first nighttime rickshaw tour. Guests posed for commemorative photos atop the rickshaw, with the illuminated Namikibashi Bridge and the city skyline as their backdrop—just like a scene from a movie. The gentle sound of the wheels and the glittering urban scenery created a truly special moment.

The BGM was provided by a DJ, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Dinner featured three special dishes paired with carefully selected Japanese sake, available only during the event. Guests savored the changes in aroma and flavor with each pairing, enjoying the slow, elegant pace of the evening. Their relaxed smiles left a lasting impression.

The daytime buzzed with vibrant exchanges between the local community and cultures from around the globe, while the evening unfolded with the elegance of Japanese tradition. Together, they created a seamless tapestry of multicultural spirit and timeless heritage—an experience only HOTEL GRAPHY SHIBUYA could craft.

For everyone who joined us, we hope it wasn’t just an event, but a summer memory to treasure for years to come.