802 spots found
Miyazaki
Experience the traditional Hyottoko dance in Hyuga City, Miyazaki. Watch the rhythmic parade of dancers in comical masks and enjoy the high-energy atmosphere of a classic Japanese summer festival.
Niigata
Experience the high-energy Muko-nage and Sumi-nuri festivals at Matsuyama Onsen. Watch newlyweds tossed into the snow and join the tradition of painting faces with black ink. A once-in-a-lifetime winter memory on January 15.
Hiroshima
Experience Mibu no Hanadaue, a UNESCO-listed tradition in Hiroshima. Witness beautifully decorated oxen, traditional rice-planting songs, and vibrant costumes set against the lush greenery of early summer. A profound encounter with Japan's agricultural heritage.
Ehime
A beautifully preserved historic district featuring traditional architecture from the Edo, Meiji, and Taisho eras. Experience the authentic atmosphere of old Japan through the historic streets and the iconic Uchiko-za theater.
The Tsuno Jinja Winter Festival (Dec 4-5) is a rare opportunity to experience the mystical beauty of Kagura dances and the warmth of Japanese hospitality through traditional food and community spirit.
Kanagawa
A limited 2-day event on Dec 17-18! Enjoy the traditional Daruma Market and lively food stalls at Iisen Kannon in Odawara. Remember to bring warm clothing and cash.
Experience the profound spiritual culture of Japan through the mystical, myth-based dances of Takachiho Kagura, a sacred ritual performed under the night sky.
Tokyo
The Oedo Antique Market at Tokyo International Forum is one of Japan's largest open-air markets, featuring a magnificent collection of Edo, Meiji, and Taisho era antiques. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures like vintage clothing and sword guards, and enjoy a deep cultural experience through interacti…
広島県東広島市の西条で開催される、日本酒の祭典「酒まつり」。毎年10月の第2土・日曜日に開催され、西条の豊かな酒造文化を体験できる、日本酒ファン必見のイベントです。
Okayama
The Yatate no Shinji at Kibitsu Jinja is a powerful ritual held every January 3rd. Based on the legend of the demon-slayer, the simultaneous release of arrows toward the four directions is a profound display of Japanese spiritual culture and tradition.
Nara
From New Year's Eve to New Year's Day, the long corridors of Hase-dera are bathed in the warm glow of thousands of lanterns. It is a magical time to celebrate the new year and offer your prayers amidst the resonant sounds of the New Year's Eve bells.
Mie
Experience the 'Saio Matsuri' in Meiwa, Mie, during the first weekend of June. The 120-person 'Saio Gunkō' procession in stunning Heian-period costumes feels like a journey back in time. A truly special moment of history and tradition.
Kochi
Experience the Shirakura Hanatori Odori in Saka Town, Kochi, held every November 12th. This historic ritual features unique traditional dances and rhythmic music performed within the sacred atmosphere of local shrines.
Iwate
A signature traditional event of Iwate where horses in brilliant regalia parade through the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic chime of over 700 bells. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Japanese tradition and sound in person.
Akita
Experience the powerful Miyoshi Bonten Matsuri, a symbol of winter in Akita. Watch the spirited competition and the offering of colorful 'Bonten' structures while enjoying traditional folk music.
Kagoshima
A special New Year's ritual held at 12:00 AM and 2:00 AM on January 1st. The powerful Taiko drumming by performers in Kumen masks offers a moving experience that perfectly celebrates the beginning of the year.
Osaka
Experience the vibrant energy of the Otaue Shinji, a traditional ritual and dance held annually on June 24. A profound way to witness Japan's cultural heritage and the unique legends of the Shima region.
Experience the Setsubun-sai festival at Kibitsu Jinja Shrine in February. Witness sacred rituals and traditional ceremonies set against the backdrop of this historic shrine, offering a profound glimpse into Japan's seasonal traditions.
Gifu
Sugawa Shishi is a legendary lion dance from Hida with a 1,300-year history. Witness its breathtaking acrobatic movements and traditional music during the annual dedication held every September 5th at the local shrines.
A powerful traditional festival where the performing arts of Teno come together. You can experience Japanese culture up close through Shishi-odori and Kagura.
Yamaguchi
A deep historical simulation where you become figures like Minamoto no Yoritomo or Taira no Kiyomori. Success relies on navigating the Genpei War through unique attributes like 'Elegance' and 'Impermanence,' as well as sophisticated political maneuvering with the Imperial Court.
Witness the breathtaking moment a vast karst plateau is engulfed in flames. Don't forget heavy winter clothing and a mask to enjoy this powerful natural spectacle safely.
Nagasaki
Experience the soul of Nagasaki from October 7th to 9th. From the powerful Dragon Dance to the unique Whale Spouting, the city is filled with tradition. We recommend booking reserved seats in advance and visiting the 'Niwa-mise' preview to see the exquisite festival costumes up close.
Fukui
Experience the soulful melodies of Mikuni-bushi echoing through historic streets in September. This traditional festival offers a magical twilight atmosphere where visitors can even join the final circle dance for a truly immersive cultural experience.
A grand Daimyo procession reenacting the Edo period's Sankin-kotai. Experience traditional Japanese culture amidst the historic streets of Yakage on the second Sunday of November.
Aichi
Experience the Tsugu Hana Matsuri at Shiratori Shrine on the night of January 2nd. Witness over 30 types of sacred Kagura dances in a high-energy traditional celebration in Shitara Town, Aichi.
Experience the traditional Gagaku and Bugaku performances held at Kasuga Taisha's Manyo Botanical Garden on November 3rd, Culture Day. A special moment to feel the breath of the Nara period.
Saga
A breathtaking traditional festival featuring a massive 200m rope. Witness the intense battle for the 'Mito' and enjoy the fresh seafood of Yobiko. This is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle of power and local tradition.
A National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property with 700+ years of history. Experience the mystical demon dances and sacred rituals of Toei Town, Aichi, held every December.
Tottori
The Yonaco Gaina Festival is a must-see summer event in Tottori every August. Don't miss the powerful Gaina Taiko drumming, energetic YOSAKOI dances, and the stunning 5,000-7,000 firework display at Yonaco Port.
Experience the Shoju Raigo Neri Kuyo-eshi, a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property recreating the legend of Princess Chujo. On April 14th at 4:00 PM, witness this profound and elegant ritual performed on the historic bridge of Taima-dera.
Aomori
A special festival at Kabushima where nature and tradition meet. Enjoy local performing arts and the unique bird call contest amidst a beautiful landscape of spring rapeseed flowers.
Fukushima
Soma Nomaoi is one of the great festivals of Tohoku. The powerful armored horse racing and samurai processions offer a one-of-a-kind experience of Japanese history. Visit in the refreshing season of May to feel the breath of tradition.
A symbol of summer in Goshogawara, featuring massive 23-meter-tall floats. The Tachineputa Museum allows you to explore the craftsmanship and see the giant floats year-round.
Discover the beauty of Achi Jinja through its seasonal wisteria and cherry blossoms, complemented by traditional Gagaku music and martial arts demonstrations held within its historic grounds.
Explore the beautifully preserved Kaseda Fumoto, a Japan Heritage site in Minamisatsuma. Walk through historic samurai districts with stone walls, water channels, and nearly 100 historic buildings that showcase the transition from the Edo to the Meiji era.
Tochigi
ユネスコ無形文化遺産にも登録された豪華な彫刻屋台が街を彩る、栃木県鹿沼市の伝統的な秋祭りです。精巧な彫刻と迫力ある御巡幸、提灯が灯る幻想的な夜の風景は、日本の祭りの美しさを存分に感じさせてくれます。
Experience the grandeur of the Hojo clan with a massive 2,000-person parade featuring samurai processions, traditional gunfire, and brass bands. This dynamic event in May is a highlight of Odawara's cultural calendar, blending Sengoku-era history with modern energy.
Witness the dancing fire rings in the snow. On February 14, the 400-year-old tradition of Hiburi Kamakura lights up the night in Kakunodate. Don't miss this breathtaking ritual of fire and light to experience authentic Japanese winter culture.
The 'Sake Brewery Street' in Hizen-hamashuku offers a beautiful landscape of white-walled storehouses that preserve the atmosphere of an Edo-period post town. It is a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photography lovers to experience traditional Japanese culture through brewery tours and sce…
Ibaraki
The Yabusame Shinji at Kashima Jingu, held every May 1st, is a rare opportunity to witness traditional Japanese martial arts up close. Please check the schedule and arrive in the afternoon to enjoy the full spectacle.
Experience the Hanamatsuri, a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property held on the fourth Saturday of November. Witness the traditional overnight dances and sacred rituals up close. Please bring plenty of warm clothing and cash for the support fee.
Saitama
A traditional summer festival in Kumagaya, Saitama, featuring impressive floats, powerful music, and the unique culture of distributed fans. Experience the vibrant energy of a Japanese summer night in July.
The Imari Tontenton Festival is one of Japan's three great fighting festivals. The heroic battle between portable shrines and heavy floats, followed by the dramatic 'Kawa-otoshi' at the Imari River, is a breathtaking spectacle. Experience this special moment of history and passion in October.
Witness the powerful Namahage ritual, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage! From the intense reenactments at Oga Shinzan Traditional Folklore Museum to the 150+ unique masks on display, immerse yourself in the deep spiritual traditions of Japan.
A dynamic festival held in mid-to-late August that captures the spirit of the Sengoku era. Enjoy spectacular armored warrior parades and the powerful spectacle of matchlock gun reenactments.
Hokkaido
Experience the winter heat of Hokkaido! Don't miss the Kikonai Macho Kanchu Misogi, where young men dive into the freezing sea. It is a dynamic winter festival filled with traditional rituals and delicious local food.
Kyoto
Experience the traditional Setsubun Matsuri at the World Heritage site, Shimogamo Jinja. Witness powerful rituals like the archery ceremony and the lively bean-throwing to welcome good fortune. We recommend visiting with warm clothing to enjoy this special February event in Kyoto.
Fukuoka
A summer staple of Kitakyushu and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The dynamic transformation from daytime banners to a spectacular nighttime lantern-lit float is a once-in-a-lifetime sight of light and sound.
Experience the magical sight of countless torches illuminating the night in the mountain village of Hase. This solemn ritual of the Obon season offers a profound glimpse into Japanese tradition and a beautiful way to create lasting summer memories in Kyoto.
Yamagata
Experience the splendor of the Shinjo Matsuri, featuring 20 magnificent floats and the rhythmic sounds of traditional music. This UNESCO-recognized festival offers a magical way to experience a traditional Japanese summer night.
A historic event featuring majestic sailing ships in Nagasaki. Enjoy the sight of large vessels and beautiful nighttime light-ups around the Dejima area.
A museum dedicated to the history of Taito, featuring a lifelike recreation of a 1950s Japanese streetscape. Experience traditional culture and the nostalgic atmosphere of old Tokyo.
A special facility where you can admire precious Hina dolls from across Japan inside a beautiful wooden structure inspired by Kinkaku-ji. It is the perfect spot to experience the traditional Tottori culture of 'Nagashibina'.
A limited-time event from Dec 17–19! Discover beautiful Hagoita paddles and the vibrant spirit of the Japanese year-end at the traditional Hagoita-ichi.
A US-Japan cultural exchange held the last weekend of August. Features global food, live music, and a spectacular fireworks show on Sunday night.
Nagano
Shimoguri no Sato, the 'Heavenly Village' at the foot of the Southern Alps, offers a breathtaking view of traditional Japanese landscapes. A must-visit photogenic spot for landscape photographers and nature lovers.
Ishikawa
The Shoin Kiriko Matsuri, held in mid-September, is a breathtaking traditional event where giant lanterns light up the night. Don't miss the chance to experience the dynamic energy of Noto's culture firsthand.
The nine massive pillars of fire rising along the Oiso coast on the night of January 17th are truly breathtaking! Don't miss this chance to experience a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in person.
Ebi Jushichiya is a traditional summer festival in Kofu, Tottori. Experience the magic of Japanese summer with glowing fire characters on Mt. Kure, dazzling fireworks, and a vibrant street of food stalls.
