802 spots found
Akita
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.
Gifu
Experience the powerful Juman-goku Matsuri in Kaga City, featuring a massive 2.5-ton Kutani plate Mikoshi. The event concludes with a stunning fireworks display on the final night. A perfect way to experience traditional Japanese culture in September.
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.
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.
Ibaraki
The Ishioka no Matsuri is one of the three great festivals of the Kanto region. Experience the grandeur of ornate floats and dynamic lion dances in this historic September celebration.
A traditional festival in Mino City held on the second weekend of April. Highlights include the 'Hana Mikoshi' with pink Mino Washi flowers and intricate mechanical doll floats. Experience Japanese tradition amidst a historic cityscape with the rhythmic sounds of traditional music.
Toyama
Experience the traditional beauty of Owara Kaze no Bon in Etchu Yatsuo, Toyama. Witness elegant dances and historic scenery, including the impressive Hikiyama floats and seasonal live performances that showcase Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Shiga
Witness the intense energy of the Katabe no Hi Matsuri! Watch the giant serpent-shaped torch ignite and the local youths perform a wild, rhythmic dance under the January night sky in Shiga.
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…
Yamaguchi
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.
Iwate
Witness the breathtaking Hadakamairi in Morioka on the evening of January 15. See young men in traditional attire performing a powerful ritual to pray for a prosperous year. A mystical winter experience illuminated by the glow of traditional lanterns.
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.
Don't miss the breathtaking Kusatsu Jidai Gyoretsu, where over 100 locals in historical costumes parade through the ancient streets of Kusatsu. It is a spectacular way to experience the charm of early summer in Shiga.
Kagoshima
Experience a world of light at Tokushige Shrine this October. The Myoenji Mairi event offers a breathtaking view of countless lanterns illuminating the history of the Shimazu clan in a truly magical atmosphere.
Yamanashi
全国的にも珍しい「徒歩鵜」の伝統技法と、その直後に打ち上がる迫力ある花火が楽しめる、山梨県笛吹市の夏の風物詩です。
Saitama
Hanno Matsuri is a traditional festival held on the first weekend of November, featuring 11 grand floats and traditional music. Experience the excitement of the night-time 'Hikiawase' and the beautiful float parades to feel the heart of Japanese culture.
Hokkaido
A high-energy festival in early June in Sapporo that blends Kochi's Yosakoi with Hokkaido's Soran Bushi. Don't miss the unique dances with Naruko clappers and the vibrant street parades!
Kyoto
Experience the magic of a Japanese summer night on the Uji River. Watch the skilled movements of female cormorant masters under the glow of lanterns.
Osaka
The 'Senbon Mochi-tsuki' held every January is a breathtaking traditional event featuring about one thousand mallets. This powerful sight of praying for health and protection is a valuable cultural experience. Experience a special moment in history at Suiken-ji Temple amidst the crisp winter air.
Nagasaki
Experience the thrill of Takengei, a traditional Nagasaki performance featuring high-altitude acrobatics on 10-meter bamboo poles. Held only on October 14 and 15, this spectacular display of skill and tradition features performers in fox masks and white robes.
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.
Experience the powerful Yabusame ritual at Osaka Tenmangu on October 25th. The 'Kisha-no-gi' ceremony, featuring archers striking wooden targets while galloping on horseback, is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese martial arts. Don't miss this special moment of cultural beauty and protection.
Miyagi
A spectacular biennial festival held every November in the historic Warehouse District of Tochigi City. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of traditional floats and Japanese cultural heritage up close.
Saga
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…
Experience the power of Aichi Kunchi in Saga. Witness the dynamic Haguma Procession with its 20kg spears and the massive 7m-tall Yamakasa floats. A must-see traditional festival in mid-October.
Kanagawa
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.
Kagawa
Experience the powerful Toyohama Chosa Matsuri in Kanonji, Kagawa. Featuring magnificent floats and the intense 'Kari-kurabe' competition in October, this is an unmissable event for seeing traditional Japanese festival culture in action.
As Osaka's only preserved historic district, Tondabayashi Jinai-cho features beautiful architecture from the Edo to the early Showa era. Enjoy a peaceful walk through a landscape of traditional merchant houses and historic temples.
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.
Tottori
The Sekigane Miyuki Gyoretsu is a traditional ritual dating back to the Edo period. As a designated Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Kurayoshi City, it offers a rare chance to witness historic ceremonies up close. Be sure to visit during its October event.
Niigata
A spectacular traditional festival in Niigata featuring giant kites as large as 24 tatami mats. Held in June, the Shirane Okite Kassen offers a rare chance to witness the powerful spirit of Japanese kite-flying-culture.
Nara
A special night where the World Heritage site of Todai-ji is enveloped in light. Approximately 2,500 lanterns and 10,000 lights illuminate the Great Buddha Hall in a mystical display. This is a rare, once-a-year opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of traditional Japanese memorial rituals.
Fukushima
A traditional naked festival held on the night of January 7th at Fuman Kukuzo Bosatsu Enzoji Temple in Yanaizu, Fukushima. The sight of men in loincloths performing a heroic ritual amidst snow and fire is a breathtaking expression of Japanese winter tradition.
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.
The Garakuta-ichi at the World Heritage site of To-ji is a treasure trove of antiques and retro goods. It is a truly unique Kyoto experience where you can hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage items against the stunning backdrop of the historic five-story pagoda.
Oita
A Nakatsu tradition with over 580 years of history. The sight of the massive 5-meter-tall 'Gion-sha' floats racing through the streets is truly heroic. Experience the essence of a Japanese summer through its powerful music and vibrant energy.
A traditional Nagahama festival honoring Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Experience the grandeur of armored samurai and the charm of traditional children's processions amidst historic streets. A perfect way to witness a living piece of Japanese history.
Nagano
A high-energy summer festival featuring upbeat music, powerful portable shrines, and traditional dancing. It is a perfect way to experience Japanese summer culture, especially if you join the impromptu dance groups!
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.
A beautiful historic district preserving the atmosphere of Edo-period merchant houses. Enjoy a charming stroll through historic architecture and the legacy of Hirose Tansho.
Shizuoka
Inatori Onsen is a charming destination featuring beautiful coastlines and rich sulfate springs. From the traditional Hina no Tsurushi-kazari decorations to spring mountain vegetable foraging, it is a perfect place to enjoy Japanese tradition and nature. Relaxing in the town's footbaths is also hig…
Experience 'Oni-oi,' a rare traditional ritual held only on the night of January 7th. The sight of the Oni emerging through the illuminated bamboo forest to the beat of the Kishen drums offers a powerful and mystical glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.
Yamagata
Experience the 'Amahage' ritual, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Yuza, Yamagata. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of deities wearing demon masks and straw capes visiting homes in January.
Experience the iconic Koenji Awa Odori, a symbol of Tokyo's summer. Witness the breathtaking energy of traditional dances and music filling the streets. The evening street parades are a must-see!
Tokushima
Experience the traditional Hinoki no Shishi-mai at Oshima Hiko Shrine on November 1st. The dynamic 'Meoto Shishi' dance, featuring two lions moving to the beat of drums, is a must-see. It is a rare and precious opportunity to witness authentic Japanese ritual culture up close.
Experience the awe-inspiring Sadu no Tondo in mid-January. Watch as massive torches ignite the pre-dawn darkness, a breathtaking display of Japan's traditional fire rituals and spiritual heritage.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Okinawa
A summer festival in Yomitan, Okinawa, where you can experience traditional arts and local culture. An ideal event for creating special summer memories.
Hyakuben Intersection is a vibrant student-centered area near Kyoto University. It is a place where the historical legacy of Chion-ji Temple meets the modern energy of student life and traditional seasonal events like the Gozan no Okuribi.
Experience 'Kosai Rikuri' at the National Treasure Zuiryu-ji Temple, where five-colored lights and music create a mystical world. Don't miss the chance to photograph the stunning illuminated architecture and seasonal night scenery.
Experience the breathtaking 'Take no Nobori' in Ueda, Nagano. Held around July 15th, this traditional summer festival features magnificent 9-meter-long banners and is a designated intangible cultural heritage of Japan.
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.
Experience the beautiful Nagashi-hina at Sengan-en in late February. Watch colorful dolls and seasonal flowers float gracefully on the water, offering a profound sense of Japanese tradition against the breathtaking backdrop of Sakurajima.
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.
静岡県指定無形民俗文化財「猿舞」を鑑賞できる貴重な機会です。毎年4月の例祭にて、神の使いである猿が主役となる独特な演舞が披露されます。日本の伝統的な祭りの熱気を体験してください。
Witness the breathtaking 'Neri' float parade and the vibrant energy of the Mikumano Shrine Grand Festival. Experience the deep-rooted traditions of Japan through rhythmic music and sacred rituals in a historic castle town setting.
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.
