The Iriya Asagao-Ichi (Morning Glory Fair) is a fair opened for three days – before, on and after Tanabata* (July 7th) – every year. Pots of morning glory sold at this fair are all of high grade, and the fair has now established itself as one of the summer faces of Tokyo Shitamachi (aka downtown Edo). Vendors selling the morning glories with big smiles and brisk voices also tell you thoroughly the right way and tips of raising a morning glory. At the same time as the flower fair, eat-out and toy stalls crowd the streets, giving out delicious smell of food and cheers of visitors.

*Tanabata…July 7. According to a Chinese legend, this is the only day throughout the year when the separated lovers Orihime (the star Vega) and Hikoboshi (the star) Altair can cross the Milky Way to see each other. Since the legend symbolizes the day as when your wishes come true, people celebrate Tanabata writing their wishes on pieces of paper (tanzaku) and hanging them on bamboo branches.

[Dates] July 6-8 every year
[Location] Shingenji Temple area; 1-12-16 Shitaya, Taito-ku, Tokyo
[Access] 1-min-walk from Iriya Station: Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
              5-min-walk from Uguisudani Station: JR Yamanote Line
[Inquiry] 03-3841-1800
[URL] http://www.dentan.jp/asagao/