Launching in 2026, the Sumida Art Festival marks a new chapter in Tokyo's cultural calendar as the first comprehensive arts festival organized by a local government within the city's 23 wards. It's set to transform Sumida into a vibrant stage where art and everyday life come together.
The festival's theme, "Five Colors of Sumida," is inspired by the ink-painting expression "five colors in ink," symbolizing the depth and diversity that can emerge from a single medium. Visitors are invited to explore the ward, discover artworks in unexpected places, and connect through shared experiences of creativity.
Taking place across venues such as Sumida Triphony Hall, Sumida Park Theater Kura, and UDC Sumida, as well as in parks and historic buildings, the festival showcases exhibitions, performances, and community-led projects rooted in local culture. Each work highlights Sumida's distinctive character, from its riverside heritage and craftsmanship to its evolving urban energy.
Building on long-running initiatives like the Sumida River Sumi-Yume Art Project, the festival deepens the connection between art and community. Whether through contemporary installations, neighborhood performances, or collaborative workshops, the Sumida Gosai Art Festival looks to paint a colorful and ever-evolving portrait of life in Sumida Ward.
For more information, please visit the official event website here: sumida-artfest.jp.
