Natsumatsuri, Encarnación Japanese Summer Festival
Taiko, dances and Japanese food on a summer night hosted by Encarnación’s Nikkei (Japanese-descendant) community.
What it is
The Encarnación Japanese Association celebrates its summer festival with traditional dances to the beat of taiko drums, stalls selling yakitori, takoyaki, sushi, yakisoba and okonomiyaki, Japanese sweets, and games for kids such as goldfish scooping. In 2026 there were more than 50 food and game stalls, and the festival marked 90 years of Japanese immigration to Paraguay. It’s a family event that shows the weight of Japanese immigration in Itapúa, where colonies such as Pirapó and La Paz have a strong Nikkei presence.
What to see and do
- Bon odori dances and taiko drums
- Homestyle Japanese cooking
- Traditional games for kids
Tips
In 2026 entry cost ₲10,000 in advance and ₲15,000 at the door. You can bring chairs, tables and a cooler. Arrive early for the food and pair it with a sunset stroll along the Encarnación waterfront.
Dates may shift to the nearest weekend.
What to see
Encarnación · Itapúa
Encarnación
The Pearl of the South: riverfront promenade, river beaches, carnival and the perfect base for the Jesuit missions.
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Costanera y playas de Encarnación (San José, Mbói Ka'ẽ y Pacu Cuá)
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Carnaval Encarnaceno (Sambódromo de Encarnación)
Paraguay's biggest carnival: comparsas (parade troupes), feathers and drumming every Saturday in January and February.
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Puente Internacional San Roque González de Santa Cruz
Two and a half kilometers of bridge, train included, to cross the Paraná to Posadas.
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Patron saintEncarnación, ItapúaFeaturedResearched and reviewed in September 2026 with 2 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.