Festivals & Fireworks

Experience the 'Lily Festival' in Nara. Witness beautiful processions and elegant Kagura dances at one of the city's oldest shrines. A perfect way to touch the heart of Japanese tradition.

Jun 16 – Jun 18

Witness five magnificent festival floats gathered in the beautiful Tokugawa-en garden. A perfect chance to experience traditional Japanese beauty in a stunning setting.

Jun 7

Step into the elegant world of the Heian period. The Saio-gunko procession is a must-see display of traditional beauty. Enjoy local food and rich history in Meiwa, Mie!

Jun 6 – Jun 7

Experience the powerful female shrine procession and delicious Imari beef at this traditional festival! Very easy access from Imari Station.

May 31

A fragrant celebration of roses and zodiac processions at Ryosen-ji. Experience traditional rituals and a stunning rose garden while praying for health and happiness.

May 17

Watch the spirited battle of local young sumo wrestlers at Achi Shrine's Tsurugata-yama! A vibrant event to experience traditional Japanese sumo culture up close.

May 17

Experience the grand spring festival at Nikko Toshogu! Don't miss the 1,200-person warrior procession and the thrilling Yabusame horse archery.

May 17 – May 18

Experience the 'Miari Shinji' and ancient processions at the World Heritage site Shimogamo-jinja. A profound day of divine rebirth and history.

May 12

Celebrate the Jishu Matsuri, a festival honoring Kyoto's most ancient deity of love. Watch the elegant procession of dancers and warriors through the historic streets of Higashiyama.

May 5

Experience the powerful Ageuma and Yabusame rituals at Tado Taisha! Witness breathtaking horse-riding traditions and the legendary white horse history in the beautiful May weather.

May 4 – May 5

Experience the splendor of the Muromachi period in Shimanto! Enjoy a grand noble procession, traditional performing arts, and local gourmet for a truly unforgettable cultural journey through Japanese history.

May 3

Travel back to the Edo period! Experience the grand Daimyo procession crossing Kintaikyo Bridge and the powerful samurai-style performances of the Kintaikyo Bridge Festival.

Apr 29

Experience the 650-year-old 'Tiger Dance'! Witness powerful tiger performances and colorful floats in this spectacular traditional fire-prevention festival.

Apr 29

Celebrate spring at Kabushima with the lively Kabushima Matsuri! Enjoy traditional shrine processions, local arts, and a unique bird-call contest amidst the natural beauty of the Black-legged Kittiwake nesting grounds.

Apr 25 – Apr 26

Celebrate the traditions of Kinosaki Onsen at the Onsen Matsuri. Enjoy historic processions, free access to certain public baths, and vibrant food stalls for a memorable two-day experience.

Apr 23 – Apr 24

豪華な山車と精巧なからくり人形が魅力！歴史ある町並みを練り歩く迫力の山車曳きや、提灯が灯る幻想的な夜の風景は必見の体験です。

Apr 18 – Apr 19

Experience the powerful and sacred Aekuni Shrine Lion Dance, a designated cultural treasure of Mie Prefecture, set against the historic backdrop of Iga.

Apr 17

Experience the unique Omiyukisan festival in Yamanashi, featuring a striking procession of male bearers in female attire to honor a goddess and pray for protection from floods.

Apr 15

A special spring event at Itsukushima Shrine where you can enjoy Gagaku and Noh dance. The experience on the historic stage offers a truly transcendent moment.

Apr 15

Celebrate spring at Hakusan Jinja in Niigata with cherry blossoms, spirited Mikoshi parades, and traditional dances. A beautiful way to experience authentic Japanese culture!

Apr 12 – Apr 18

Capture the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji and pink moss phlox! Experience the iconic Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi for the ultimate spring photo opportunity.

Apr 11 – May 24

Experience the breathtaking Ogasawara-style Yabusame on a historic training ground used since the Muromachi era. A truly special moment to feel the breath of Japanese history.

Apr 5

Witness the intense Hote-sai festival at Shiogama Jinja on March 10. As one of Japan's three great Kaminari-mikoshi festivals, the energy of the portable shrines brings a unique sense of tradition and power to the streets of Shiogama. A must-see for cultural enthusiasts.

Mar 10

Experience the legendary 'Horafuki' ritual and traditional bean-throwing at Kibi-tsu Jinja in Hiroshima! A perfect night to welcome good fortune.

Feb 3

The Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Festival is a breathtaking fire festival. Since entry requires a special pass, please check with your accommodation in advance!

Jan 15

Chikyu-sai is a traditional festival at Itsukushima Shrine featuring the elegant Bugaku dance. Experience the sacred rituals and classical music that celebrate the start of the New Year.

Jan 5

Witness the Great Bonfire and the Bell of Peace. A profound way to honor history and welcome the New Year in Okinawa.

Dec 31, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026

Experience the thrilling clash of lantern poles! With a Special Viewing Seat, you can enjoy local sake and food from a warm Kotatsu seat while feeling the festival's energy up close.

Dec 6, 2025

A historic festival in Shimonita featuring grand floats, intense music, and elegant dancing. Don't miss the nighttime lantern-lit procession!

Oct 11, 2025 – Oct 12, 2025

The Kashima Traditional Performing Arts Festival showcases the soul of the region. Experience the powerful energy of traditional mask and lion dances held at the majestic Yutoku Inari Shrine. A must-see for culture lovers.

Oct 5, 2025

Experience the breathtaking Horo Matsuri in Kawagoe! Watch children in stunning traditional costumes lead the sacred procession in this rare Japanese cultural event.

Sep 14, 2025

Celebrate the Hoshiai Tanabata Festival on July 7, 2025! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Tenjinbashi Shopping Street with live performances and seasonal charm. A perfect way to experience a lively Osaka summer night with friends and family.

Jul 7, 2025

Experience the U.S. Navy Base opening! Enjoy American food and a unique atmosphere in Yokosuka this spring. Don't forget your ID!

Mar 22, 2025

Celebrate the arrival of spring with the Hote Matsuri at Shiogama Jinja. Watch the spirited procession of mikoshi through the streets, a breathtaking display of tradition and energy that marks the start of a new season in the Mutsu region.

Mar 10, 2025

Witness a magical summer night at Hirosawaike Pond. Experience the profound beauty of floating lanterns and the serene elegance of a traditional Japanese summer.

Aug 16, 2016