Winter events

Find harmony through Zazen and moxibustion at Eiho-ji, surrounded by National Treasures and beautiful gardens. A perfect luxury escape to reconnect with yourself.

Dec 19

While Kaikoku Kinenkan is closed in late 2026, you can still experience history through the 'Auris' MR audio guide at Hikone Castle. Just bring your iPhone and earphones for an immersive journey!

Dec 25 – Dec 31

Witness the sacred Osusuosame Shinji at Atsuta Jingu, where priests use long bamboo poles to purify the shrines for the New Year. A beautiful glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.

Dec 25

Experience the sacred New Year at the World Heritage site, Tamaki Jinja. From the purifying year-end rituals to the powerful first drum of the year, witness the heart of Japanese tradition. As the shrine is in a cold mountain region, please dress warmly and bring cash for a seamless visit.

Dec 26

Witness the mystical glow of lanterns at Fushimi Inari Taisha. A breathtaking night of tradition and sacred beauty awaits.

Dec 30

Experience the Chinka-sai, a sacred ritual at Itsukushima Shrine to pray for peace and fire prevention. A perfect moment to witness Japanese spiritual culture amidst breathtaking scenery.

Dec 31

Experience the breathtaking fire festival and sacred Yamabushi rituals at Mt. Haguro on December 31. Heavy winter clothing and non-slip shoes are essential!

Dec 31

Experience the stunning autumn colors at the historic Kotohira-gu Shrine. The evolving scenery along the stone steps is a must-see.

Dec 31

Experience the sacred rituals and lively spirit of the Sansha Jinja Festival. A perfect opportunity to witness authentic Japanese traditions and local culture.

Dec 31

Reflect on the year in profound silence. Prepare your spirit for the new year within the sacred and solemn atmosphere of Akihayama.

Dec 31

Join the Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony at Koyama-ji in Sakura, Ibaraki. It is a beautiful way to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the Japanese New Year through the resonant sounds of the temple bells.

Dec 31

Ring in the New Year at the sacred Tamaki Jinja. Experience the profound atmosphere of the Joya festival and the striking sounds of traditional drums. Please dress warmly, as temperatures are extremely low during this time.

Dec 31

Experience the profound resonance of the New Year's Eve bell at Saidai-ji. A spiritual moment of peace and tradition in the heart of Nara.

Dec 31

Experience the Oharaesiki at Hikosan Jingu. Purify your spirit through the sacred Chinowa ritual to welcome the New Year with a clean heart.

Dec 31

A sacred ritual held at 3:00 PM on December 31. Experience the purification ceremony at Jishu Jinja in Kyoto to welcome the New Year with a clear mind and spirit.

Dec 31

Witness the historic countdown of the world's largest hourglass, 'Sunagoyomi.' Join the Nima Sand Museum for a spectacular New Year's Eve ritual.

Dec 31, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027

Experience the soul-stirring Joya Taiko and sacred rituals at the World Heritage site, Tamaki Jinja. A profound way to welcome the New Year in a spiritual sanctuary.

Dec 31

Discover the profound history of Hanamatsuri (Fudo), a 700-year-old cultural treasure. Experience the mystical beauty of traditional dances and vibrant five-colored decorations in person during this sacred festival celebration.

Jan 2, 2027

Experience Hanamatsuri, a 700-year-old ritual of rebirth and mystical mask dances designated as a National Important Intangible Cultural Property.

Jan 2, 2027

Witness the start of the UNESCO-recognized Hayachine Kagura at Kagura-no-Yakata. Experience the divine, dynamic, and 500-year-old traditional dance up close.

Jan 2, 2027

The Genshi-sai ritual at Itsukushima Jinja is a rare opportunity to experience the profound spiritual traditions of Japan within a majestic, natural setting.

Jan 3, 2027

A mystical night of Kagura dance featuring red demons. Experience Japan's ancient traditions at the historic Kumano Shrine.

Jan 3, 2027

Experience the vibrant energy of Tenteko Matsuri! Immerse yourself in the lively spirit and traditional customs of a local Japanese festival.

Jan 3, 2027

Watch the sacred Kagura dance performed by 8 miko at the Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine. A beautiful way to celebrate the start of the New Year.

Jan 3, 2027

Witness the sacred opening of the UNESCO-listed Hayachine Kagura. Experience the profound beauty of traditional Japanese dance and spiritual history within the majestic atmosphere of Hayachine Jinja.

Jan 3, 2027

Experience the sacred rituals and history of Nishinomiya Jinja during the Hyakutayu Shrine Festival. Witness beautiful traditional ceremonies in a stunning historic setting.

Jan 5, 2027

Experience the mystical Ashinojiri Dosojin Matsuri in Nagano on January 7th. Witness the sacred ritual of adorning the divine mask to pray for the village's safety amidst the beautiful scenery of the Northern Alps.

Jan 7, 2027

日本三大奇祭の一つ、黒石寺蘇民祭。炎の中で繰り広げられる蘇民袋争奪戦の熱狂は一生の思い出に！

Jan 7, 2027

Experience the Toba no Himatsuri, a 1,200-year-old fire festival. Watch the dramatic ritual of retrieving sacred wood from the massive, flaming 'Suzumi' structure.

Jan 7, 2027

Experience the solemn 'Waraji Mikoshi' ritual and feel the spirit of Japan. Witness a historic ceremony held in the serene, cold air of January.

Jan 10, 2027

Visit Yasui Konpiragu, the sacred site for breaking bad ties and attracting good luck. Start your New Year with a powerful spiritual ritual in Kyoto.

Jan 10, 2027

Experience Hanamatsuri, a traditional Kagura dance from Aichi designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Discover the mystical beauty of ancient Japanese ritual dance.

Jan 11, 2027

Watch giant Yaki-manji being grilled at Isesaki Shrine! Enjoy the Joshu Yaki-man Festival and the lively Daruma Market. Bring warm clothes to enjoy this traditional winter treat.

Jan 11, 2027

Experience the high-speed excitement of traditional Karuta at the Karuta Matsuri. A special winter event to feel the warmth of local Japanese culture.

Jan 11, 2027

Witness the mystical night where torches blaze through the snow and gods perform sacred dances. Experience a true traditional Japanese winter festival.

Jan 13, 2027

Experience the 300-year-old Matsutaki Matsuri at Osaki Hachiman-gu. Witness the sacred Goshinka fire and the spirited Hadaka-mairi for a profound encounter with Japanese winter culture.

Jan 14, 2027

A 300-year-old winter tradition in Sendai. Witness the powerful sacred fire and the traditional 'Hadakamari' ritual. Please dress warmly to enjoy this solemn ceremony.

Jan 14, 2027

Experience the dramatic Donton-sai fire festival and the traditional Hadakamari procession at Morioka Hachiman-gu. A must-see winter tradition in Iwate.

Jan 15, 2027

Experience the intense heat and history of the Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Festival. Watch the massive shrine burn amidst a fierce battle for fire. Please prepare for extreme cold and wear flame-resistant clothing.

Jan 15, 2027

Witness the breathtaking fire festival at Cape Shionomisaki. Experience the dramatic sight of flames sweeping across the grass, traditional performances, and warm local delicacies.

Jan 16, 2027

Experience the intense 'Kenka Bonten' in the snow! Witness colorful banners clashing to the sound of traditional songs at Akita's vibrant winter festival.

Jan 17, 2027

A grand traditional festival featuring magnificent, decorated floats. Experience the history, culture, and vibrant energy of Japan up close.

Jan 18, 2027

Celebrate spring in Inatori with the Hina no Tsurushi-kazari festival. Enjoy colorful traditional crafts and hands-on workshops in the birthplace of this beautiful tradition.

Jan 20, 2027

Witness the breathtaking spectacle of hot water being splashed in freezing temperatures! Be sure to dress warmly and prepare for the cold to fully enjoy this traditional winter festival at Kawayu Onsen.

Jan 20, 2027

A special winter festival at Mokeiji Temple featuring dramatic torchlight processions and the elegant Ennen-no-mai dance.

Jan 20, 2027

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iwate's traditional festival, featuring ornate floats and a magical nightscape of glowing lanterns. A must-see cultural experience in Oshu City.

Jan 22, 2027

A magical night of light. Experience the breathtaking beauty of countless lanterns illuminating the sky and water.

Jan 22, 2027

A special space where Noto's nature meets contemporary glass art. Experience the interplay of light and stunning architecture at the Ishikawa Notojima Glass Art Museum.

Jan 23, 2027 – May 9, 2027

Experience the beauty of Kyoto in Hamamatsu. A special exhibition featuring 50 exquisite Japanese paintings capturing the essence of the ancient capital.

Jan 23, 2027 – Mar 14, 2027

Step into a medieval fantasy world! An immersive LARP event where you wear your own costume and become the hero of your own story.

Jan 23, 2027

Experience the elegance of blooming plum blossoms and traditional performing arts at Osaka Tenmangu. A perfect blend of history and culture.

Jan 24, 2027

A spectacular winter view of Mt. Fuji and fireworks! Watching the 'inverted fireworks' reflected in the clear air while enjoying warm local food is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Jan 24, 2027

Experience the powerful chanting of sutras and traditional healing rituals at Koko-ji Temple. Enjoy the vibrant culture and local food of the Sugamo district.

Jan 24, 2027

Experience the warmth of Kiyama through the Ai ga Ookii Kiyama Town Music Festival. A special day of local songs and instrumental music that connects the community.

Jan 24, 2027

A breathtaking world of light and snow. Dress warmly and prepare your camera to capture the magic of Kisoji's winter.

Jan 25, 2027

Experience the magical Kobe Luminarie, a stunning light festival that illuminates the winter night with breathtaking art and history.

Jan 29, 2027 – Feb 7, 2027

Experience the magic of a Shiretoko winter night. Enjoy illuminated art, cozy bonfires, and relaxing hammocks for a truly special winter memory.

Jan 30, 2027

Discover a dreamlike winter landscape where thousands of lights glow amidst the snow. Immerse yourself in the warm, magical atmosphere of Yunishi-gawa Onsen this winter season.

Feb 1, 2027

Experience a magical night in Hakone where traditional Shinto rituals meet a spectacular fireworks display.

Feb 2, 2027

Experience the profound beauty of traditional Kagura and the arrival of spring. Discover the thousand-year history of Uwadotori Jinja Shrine.

Feb 2, 2027