A Celebration of Community

Nagoya's LGBTQ+ community continues to grow stronger each year, and the upcoming Nagoya Rainbow Pride event on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, promises to showcase this evolution beautifully.

What began as a modest gathering has matured into one of our city's most anticipated annual events. Now Nagoya Rainbow Pride features everything from thoughtfully designed parade floats to engaging live performances, interactive community booths, and support from a diverse range of organizations.

This year's theme, "When society changes, hearts follow," reflects the event's purpose as both a celebration and a catalyst for positive change in our community.

The festivities kick off at 10:30 with registration at Shibafu Hiroba in Hisaya Odori Park. Early birds note that the first 1,600 participants will receive special event wristbands, so arriving on time definitely has its perks. By 12:30, the parade begins to take shape as participants gather and organize, with official departure set for 13:00. The colorful procession winds through downtown Nagoya for about an hour and a half, eventually making its way to Oasis 21 between 14:30 and 17:00.

Meanwhile, from 11:00 to 18:00, Oasis 21 transforms into the heart of the celebration. Here, you'll discover a thoughtfully arranged festival space where conversations flow easily between performances. Local musicians and dancers take the stage while nearby booths showcase everything from community resources to handcrafted goods.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between celebration and connection. People linger at booths, strike up conversations with strangers who quickly become friends, and move between activities at their own pace. Some come for just an hour or two while others make a full day of it, and that's exactly what makes it work—the freedom to experience Pride in whatever way feels right to you.

For those bringing children, family-friendly spaces provide activities that engage young minds while introducing concepts of acceptance and diversity in accessible ways. First-time attendees often mention how the welcoming environment exceeded their expectations, regardless of their own identity or background.

Weather in mid-May typically cooperates with mild temperatures, but veterans know to come prepared with a light jacket or umbrella just in case – Nagoya weather keeps us guessing sometimes. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you're joining the parade route through Sakae.

While the event itself is free, bringing spending money for food, drinks, and the merchandise supports both the event and local businesses. Many attendees also choose to make small donations to the organizers to help ensure next year's event can be even better.

Last year's gathering drew an impressive 55,000 attendees with over 1,200 joining the parade directly. The turnout demonstrated how Nagoya has embraced the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome.

Nagoya Rainbow Pride welcomes all participants—whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or attend as an ally, your presence contributes to making this event meaningful. The gathering represents an opportunity to connect with others while celebrating the diversity that enriches our city.

Whether you're a long-time Nagoya resident or just passing through, Nagoya Rainbow Pride offers a genuine glimpse into the heart of our city's evolving culture – one where traditional Japanese hospitality meets contemporary openness.

Event Schedule:

• Registration: 10:30 AM at Shibafu Hiroba, Hisaya Odori Park
• Wristband Distribution: First 1,600 participants
• Parade Lineup: 12:30 PM
• Parade Departure: 1:00 PM
• Parade Conclusion: 2:30-5:00 PM at Oasis 21
• Festival Hours: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Oasis 21

Festival Features:

• Live performances from local talent
• Community and sponsor information booths
• Diverse food and beverage options
• Pride-themed merchandise
• Family-friendly activity areas

Parade

The Nagoya Rainbow Pride Parade features eight floats and welcomes everyone to participate. The parade starts at Shibafu-Hiroba, Hisaya Odori Park, and ends at Oasis 21.

This schedule may contain errors or changes.
Please check the official schedule HERE


10:30
Begin Parade Registration
Location:
Shibafu-Hiroba (Satellite Venue)
Visit the registration booth at Shibafu-Hiroba to receive your wristband for parade entry. Registration ends once wristbands run out.

12:30
End of Parade Registration

Gather at Shibafu-Hiroba for parade formation.

13:00
Parade Departure
Floats will depart sequentially from the starting point.

14:30–17:00
Arrival at Oasis 21 (Main Venue)

Floats arrive sequentially at Oasis 21.

The parade route begins at Shibafu-Hiroba, Hisaya Odori Park. It heads north for a block to Sotobori-dori, then passes west for another block before turning south on Otsu-dori. The parade continues south, heading straight and passing Starbucks, MIRAI TOWER, and Don Quijote Sakae. It then passes Sunshine Sakae and Mitsukoshi department stores, continuing south through the Sakae area. The parade continues south straight until it reaches the Hirokoji-dori intersection at Yaba-cho. It then turns east onto Wakamiya-Odori and goes one block. The parade turns north on Hisaya-Odori towards the Mirai Tower. It makes a right turn (east) onto Nishi-dori and heads towards Oasis 21, where the parade ends.

Note: The parade route may change. Please refer to the official website for the most up-to-date and accurate route and event information.

Parade participation is limited to 1,600 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must register between 10:30 and 12:30 on the event day at the Parade Reception Booth and will receive a wristband for entry.

The parade aims to showcase diversity and advocate for rights and dignity, with specific guidelines for participants, including dress code, behavior, and pet policies.

Parade Participation and Guidelines

How to Join the Parade (Free)
Participation is limited to 1,600 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration will close when this number is reached.
• Registration Time: 10:30–12:30 on the event day
• Location: Parade Reception Booth at Hisaya Odori Park "Shibafu Hiroba"


Participants will receive a wristband for parade entry.

Note: Just as at Oasis 21, participation with electric wheelchairs, including access to the grass area, is permitted.

Important Notes for Parade Participants

Dress Code:

There is no specific dress code, but please avoid excessively revealing clothing or outfits that might cause unwanted contact with others.

Photos & Videos:

Be mindful of others when taking photos or videos. If you are concerned about being photographed, please protect your identity using sunglasses or similar measures.

Flags & Accessories:

Do not bring flags or accessories that are excessively tall, potentially dangerous, or likely to roll around, causing inconvenience to other participants, vehicles, or spectators.

Alcohol, Smoking & Eating:

Please refrain from alcohol, smoking, or eating during the parade.
(Beverages are allowed.)

Mid-event Participation/Withdrawal:

Joining or leaving the parade midway is generally prohibited. Always follow police instructions for safe participation.

Umbrella Usage:

Please avoid using umbrellas, including parasols, due to eye injury risks.
Instead, use hats, towels, or raincoats.

Guidelines for Participants Bringing Dogs

• Only dogs are allowed as pets in the parade.
• Walk behind the 8th float during the parade.
• Present proof of rabies vaccination at the reception (a smartphone display is acceptable).
• Long or retractable leashes are prohibited.
• Dogs must wear manner pants (pet diapers) during the parade.
• If you leave the parade line for pet care (including stopping), you cannot rejoin the formation.
• Carry or place your dog in a stroller when moving over grass areas.
• Organizers are not responsible for any issues or incidents involving pets.

Cheerio cars will lead floats 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8. The floats will feature themes of pride, marriage equality, transgender rights, youth, queer identity, diversity, and international celebration.

Participating Floats

1 Pride Float – "Raise your pride high!"
◦ Led by Rainbow Brass performance

2 Tokai Float – "We are here!"

3 MFAJ Float – "Marriage equality for everyone!"
◦ DJ Junior with performances by DJs & drag queens!

4 Transgender Float – "Human Rights!"

5 Youth & Sign Language Float – "Connecting to the future!"

6 Queer Float – "Differences are power!"
◦ DJ KEN-G with DJs & drag queens!

7 Diversity Float – "Never stop moving forward!"

8 International Float – "Celebrate the finale!"

This parade aims to showcase diversity and advocate for rights and dignity. Only those who support this purpose are encouraged to participate. Those not aligned with this intention are kindly requested to refrain from joining.

Stage Performances

(In scheduled order of appearance)

Please note that the following descriptions are summaries meant to provide a general explanation. For official information on each performance, please see the official website HERE

BANANA blossom
BANANA blossom is a drag queen who debuted in 2011. She spends about 90% of her weekends performing mainly around Nagoya, as well as at events across Japan. Her performances range from lively dance numbers to humorous routines. During the day, she works at a law office and is also active in video editing, sound production, and lighting—a genuinely multi-talented queen.
Instagram: @bananagesomi

Rainbow Brass
Rainbow Brass is a brass band specifically assembled for Nagoya Rainbow Pride. Believing societal change brings transformation around them, they create happiness through colorful music. Their motto is: "Everyone is everyone's ally!" Once again this year, they’re excited to parade under clear skies!
X: @rainbowbrass

COLORs
COLORs features performers active in various fields who have gathered exclusively for NRP2025. They deliver performances full of happiness and energy, guaranteed to move the audience's hearts and bodies.

ReSTA*
ReSTA* (pronounced "re-star") is a vocal and dance group consisting of members originally from Kansai. They mainly perform covers of J-POP songs. They strive to energize the venue with cheerful, fun performances and invite everyone to join in the excitement.
X: @RestaAsterisk

Nijigumi Fights
Nijigumi Fights is a gay idol-inspired performance group active in Kanto, Nagoya, Kansai, and Kyushu. They perform original songs and engage in recording and live performances. They are also recruiting new members and welcome inquiries.
X: @nijigumi_info

Vocalist Asahi Ishizaki
Asahi Ishizaki serves as a tourism ambassador for Taki Town & Meiwa Town in Mie Prefecture. He has performed primarily in the Tokai and Kinki regions and has also appeared internationally in New York and Hong Kong. He has performed at prisons in six prefectures and serves as a drug abuse prevention counselor in Mie.
X: @asahiishizaki
Instagram: @asahishizaki

Belly Dance Fusion Team Aklab Kabila
Aklab Kabila delivers a new performance style that blends various dance genres based on belly dancing. They captivate audiences and transport them into a mystical world through exotic music and passionate movement.
Instagram: @fan_misako

Your mail is.
Your mail is. is a dance group primarily active on Nico Nico Douga, regularly posting dance videos known as "Odottemita." They've included familiar songs for this performance and encourage audience participation by clapping along.
X:

• りら @lilas_nico_co
• たません @tama_sen_
• ぴよちゃ @piyopiyo_otya
• ゆぴる @yus1o

mariPan
mariPan (note the capital "P") is a singer-songwriter from Osaka who openly identifies as a sexual minority ("bisexual leaning toward lesbian"). She performs acoustic guitar with original songs based mainly on her personal romantic experiences, and proudly proclaims her deep fondness for pandas.
X: @mariPan_0420

Kingly’s. from studio G.O.A.T
Kingly’s. is a dance team from Nagoya’s dance school "studio G.O.A.T." They regularly perform at events and contests and are excited to perform at Oasis 21. They look forward to sharing their energetic performance with everyone.
Instagram: @kinglys._

DJ Shigeki
DJ Shigeki, born in Nagoya, specializes in house and disco music. He has performed internationally over the past 20 years, including at Sydney's Mardi Gras. He plans to energize the venue for this event by mixing classic Pride songs and popular J-POP hits, inviting everyone near the stage to feel happiness and love through music.
Instagram: @shigeki_yozakuradisko

CHESAN
Based in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, CHESAN is a pole dancer who began his career in Tokyo and has appeared in music videos for artists such as Ayumi Hamasaki and Namie Amuro. A three-time finalist in the All Japan Pole Dance Competition, he later returned to Kitakyushu to open the show club "CHE CHE CHE." Currently performing nationwide, CHESAN captivates audiences with his unique, elegant, and alluring style, rare among male pole dancers.
Instagram: @paku_chesan

H-Pag!
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this August, H-Pag! is a dance-cover group based in Kansai. It exclusively performs songs by Hello! Project and actively appears nationwide. Recently joined by trainee members called "H-Pag Eggs," this new and powered-up version of H-Pag! promises to delight audiences.
X: @hpaginfo
Instagram: @h_pag_info

Satsukipon
Satsukipon is a singer who debuted at "Nico Nico Chokaigi 2023," held at Makuhari Messe. Leveraging her experiences as a transgender woman, she personally writes and composes her songs. Her delicate yet powerful singing connects diverse audiences, transcending genres to foster empathy and courage.
X: @nishiharasatsuk
Instagram: @satsuki_nishihara

IZ*MAN
IZMAN is a K-pop dance cover group based primarily in Nagoya and Osaka. It is active at events and on YouTube. Although its members differ widely in age, personality, and physique, when performing together, they unite as one, like a transforming robot. Embracing its motto, "Cherish individuality and dance joyfully," IZMAN's performances resemble the cheerful chaos of a toy box overturned.
X: @izmancrew
Instagram: @izman_crew

Nagoya Sing For Life Singers / SARI
SARI, a singer-songwriter based in Nagoya, has performed in various musical genres, including hip-hop bands and city pop units. Her distinctive silky voice has made her a popular artist. Through her music, SARI aims to spread love and happiness to all listeners.
Instagram: @sari_pi_

Nagoya Rainbow Pride 2025
Stage Schedule

Please note that the schedule may vary slightly.

Booths

(at Oasis 21 Galaxy Plaza)

Below is a list of participating booths. Please note that the following descriptions are summaries meant to give a general overview. For a full and accurate explanation, please check the official website HERE

University Joint Booth
(Booth No.1)
Universities in Aichi Prefecture have created a joint booth to address sexual diversity and LGBTQ+ issues. The booth will showcase initiatives and foster interaction among students, graduates, and faculty. Initiatives or those wishing to exchange opinions are encouraged to stop by.

Aixx's Exsis
(Booth No. 2)
“Complete Comfort” booth offers gender-neutral apparel, including boxer shorts and long-sleeve T-shirts, promoting self-expression over gender norms. URL: http://aixxs.net

BEST BRIDAL
(Booth No. 3)
The “Happiness Project” offers free rainbow-colored photo booth sessions at the Nagoya event, capturing couples’ moments of happiness.

Cheerio Group
(Booth No. 4)
Cheerio, a soft drink manufacturer, participates in NRP in Nagoya to promote diversity. They are giving away limited-edition Life Guard drinks with rainbow camouflage packaging.

Fortune Telling
@ serina (At Serina)
(Booth No. 5)
A palm reading service that helps visitors bloom. They offer bright and fun fortune-telling that isn't confined by gender. Their main specialty is palm reading, but they also offer "Eki" (divination using bamboo sticks) and birthday readings. Visitors curious about fortune telling but who haven't had the opportunity to try, or those who have been too shy to try, are encouraged to stop by.

muta MARINE
(Booth No. 6)
muta aims to change the value of wearable items and proposes breaking away from conventional concepts. They are selling limited edition staff T-shirts and rainbow-colored items.

Haus of Gaishoku
(Booth No. 7)
Haus of Gaishoku, an international performance art group, promotes diversity and inclusion through art. They host “Beauty Blenda” events in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, featuring drag queens, dancers, and various artists.

General Incorporated
Association "Asuniwa"
(Booth No. 8)
Asuniwa was established in 2023 with the slogan "#Freedom to live with your own name," aiming to realize optional separate surnames for married couples and a society free from discrimination based on sex and gender.
https://asuniwa.org/

Hotel Indigo Inuyama Urakuen
by IHG・IHG ANA JAPAN
(Booth No. 9)
The Hotel Indigo, a lifestyle boutique hotel, promotes individuality and self-expression, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. They have five hotels in Japan, including one in Inuyama City.
https://inuyama.hotelindigo.com/

Shiseido Beauty Experience
(Booth Nos. 10 & 11)
At this booth, visitors have a chance to rediscover their charm. Through bone structure diagnosis, guests can enjoy makeup that perfectly matches their individuality and style. The staff helps with eyebrow design, eye makeup tips, and choosing colors that enhance the individual and bring out their beauty.

Hilton Nagoya
(Booth No. 12)
Hilton, a global hospitality leader, actively engages in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They offer banana bread, original goods, and event-limited hand fans as gifts.

Government Booth
(Booth Nos. 13 & 14)
This booth offers information on Partnership and Family-ship systems in Aichi and Gifu.

NPO PROUD LIFE
(Booth No. 14)
Free LGBTQ consultation available with specialized counselors.

NPO Nijiiro School
(Booth No. 15)
They will sell original goods in various themes and colors: rainbow, transgender, non-binary, Aro/Ace, bisexual, and pansexual.

Tear
Experience a coffin through a transparent casket!
(Booth No. 16 & 17)
A hugely popular attraction returning from last year, visitors can experience a coffin decorated so cutely that one wouldn't think it's a coffin. This rare opportunity might change perspectives on life.

Marriage For All Japan
(Booth No. 18)
“Marriage For All Japan” advocates for marriage equality, sharing information and collecting messages for Diet members.

NHK Nagoya Broadcasting Station
(Booth No. 19)
They plan to collect messages and set up exhibitions.

Our Migration Life
(Booth No. 20)
Rainbow-colored Iga kumihimo “Niji-himo” and pottery “Niji-yaki” are being sold to promote a society where everyone can live as their true selves.

Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd.
(Booth No. 21)
Sanyo Chemical, a Kyoto-based chemical manufacturer, promotes DEI and LGBTQ+ initiatives. They participate in Pride events, workshops, and offer ally goods.
Click HERE for info on Sanyo Chemical's DEI promotion initiatives:

LGBT-Ally Project (OUT JAPAN Co., Ltd.)
(Booth No. 22)
They're exhibiting panels introducing what ally companies are doing. They're also giving away ally goods such as stickers.

Community Center - rise
(Booth No. 23)
Free open space for LGBTQ individuals, offering HIV/AIDS prevention information, community resources, and consultations.Email: rise.aln@gmail.com http://rise.x0.to

Labor and Social Security Attorney Corporation
Kamei Labor Management Office
(Booth No. 24)
Labor Consultation offers guidance on creating an inclusive workplace for LGBT individuals.

Pride House Tokyo
Towards Pride House Aichi/Nagoya 2026
(Booth No. 25)
Pride House Tokyo, launched for the Tokyo 2020 Games, promotes LGBTQ+ understanding through a consortium of NPOs, individuals, and companies. They plan to set up Pride House Aichi/Nagoya 2026 during the 20th Asian Games (2026/Aichi/Nagoya). Aiming for an LGBTQ+ inclusive society through sports from Nagoya, they will disseminate information about sports and LGBTQ+ in collaboration with NRP. https://pridehouse.jp/

JAPAN PRIDE NETWORK
(Booth No. 27 & 28)
Japan Pride Network organizes Pride events, exchanging information and sharing know-how to develop regional Pride events.

Aichi Prefecture Judicial Scrivener Association
(Booth No. 29)
As "legal experts in everyday life," judicial scriveners provide legal support for sexual minorities through advice on will creation, voluntary guardianship contracts, partnership agreements, etc. Visitors are encouraged to consult with them freely.

The Details

Nagoya Rainbow Pride 2025

Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Theme: "When society changes, hearts follow."

Locations
• Oasis 21 (Sakae, Nagoya)
• Hisaya Odori Park
• Shibafu Hiroba

Parade Information

Participant Check-in:
Time: 10:30 - 12:30
Location:
Parade Reception Booth at Shibafu Hiroba, Hisaya Odori Park

Note: Wristbands will be distributed to the first 1,600 participants

Parade Schedule:

Line-up: 12:30 at Shibafu Hiroba
Start: 13:00
Arrival at Oasis 21: Between 14:30 and 17:00

Stage & Booths

Time: 11:00 - 18:00
Location: Oasis 21
Features:
Live performances, community and sponsor booths, food and merchandise vendors

Instagram

Facebook

Official Website

#NagoyaPride2025 #RainbowPrideJapan #NagoyaLGBTQ #JapanPrideFestival #NagoyaDiversity #CentralJapanPride #名古屋レインボープライド2025 #名古屋プライド #日本LGBT祭り #東海プライド #愛知多様性 #オアシス21イベント