Like all major cities in the world, Tokyo has a vibrant and cosmopolitan edge. Yet it can be difficult for some newcomers (and some older politicians) to see the city's multiculturalism.
One of my favorite ways to experience other cultures are at Tokyo's many international festivals. Whether you're looking for Brazil or Myanmar, Tokyo has a festival for it, where you can eat the food, hear the music and watch the dances of people from around the world. I sometimes even attempt a few dance moves myself — to the horror of my tween and teen.
We love Japan's traditional matsuri (festivals), but it's also important to expose the brood to cultures further afield. Here are a few international festivals around Tokyo that we recommend. They're all fun, free and full of opportunity.