Historic Towns
802 spots found
Setsubun-sai Festival (Matsuo Taisha Shrine)
京都・松尾大社の節分祭では、宮司による「鳴弦破魔弓神事」や、迫力ある「石見神楽」の奉納が行われます。2月の立春前、日本の伝統的な厄除けの儀式を間近で見ることができる貴重な機会です。防寒対策をしっかりとして、歴史ある神社の熱気を感じてください。
Kyoto
Mochigase no Nagashibina (Nagashibina-kan)
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'.
Tottori
Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival
Don't miss the Hyakumangoku Procession, the symbol of Kanazawa's history! Experience the grandeur of the Maeda Toshiie reenactment, traditional Noh, and tea ceremonies during this spectacular 3-day festival in June.
Ishikawa
Jumangoku Matsuri Festival
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.
Gifu
Hagi no Wafune Dai-kyoso
A traditional Hagi boat race with over 300 years of history. Watch young men in traditional headbands rowing in perfect unison on the water.
Yamaguchi
Yu Station
日本初の木造立体トラス構法を用いた独創的なデザインの道の駅です。小国ジャージ牛乳の乳製品や地元の特産品が充実しており、温泉地へのバスの拠点としても非常に便利です。建築美と食を楽しむことができます。
Kumamoto
Aichi Kunchi
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.
Saga
Kagibiki Matsuri
A 300-year-old tradition in Kanoya City. This powerful ritual of intertwining two wooden poles is a unique way to pray for a bountiful harvest. Held every 3rd Sunday of February, it offers a rare glimpse into Japan's deep-rooted cultural heritage.
Kagoshima
Nagahama Shusse Matsuri (Hoko Matsuri)
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.
Shiga
Tsuno Jinja Shrine Winter Grand Festival
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.
Miyazaki
Hadakamairi (Morioka Hachiman-gu)
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.
Iwate
Gifu Nagaragawa Ukai
Experience the 1,300-year-old tradition of cormorant fishing. Watch the dramatic sight of torches and cormorants catching sweetfish from a viewing boat on the Nagara River.
Gifu
Kabushima Matsuri
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.
Aomori
Owara Kaze no Bon in Etchu Yatsuo
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.
Toyama
Hakata Dontaku
A traditional Fukuoka festival held every May 3rd and 4th. Experience the vibrant culture of the city through colorful parades, stage performances, and spectacular fireworks.
Fukuoka
Ukai (Cormorant Fishing) on Uji River
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.
Kyoto
Achi Jinja Spring Grand Festival
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.
Okayama
Aomori Nebuta Festival
A premier summer festival held from August 2nd to 7th. Witness the breathtaking sight of massive, illuminated 'Nebuta' floats parading through Aomori. Enjoy the energetic Haneto dances and use the multilingual app for an enriched cultural experience.
Aomori
Sake Matsuri
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。
Hiroshima
Katsuyama Kenka Danjiri Festival
Witness the incredible power of 2-to-3-ton floats colliding head-on during the Kenka Danjiri. Experience the ground-shaking excitement and traditional fervor of this legendary festival.
Okayama
Tenjin Matsuri Hono Fireworks
A spectacular festival of fire and water with 1,000 years of history. The grand boat procession and dazzling fireworks are the ultimate symbols of an Osaka summer. Experience the breathtaking energy of Tenjin Matsuri firsthand!
Osaka
Hamanakamacho Hachinokiro-juku Preservation District (Hizen-hamashuku)
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…
Saga
Takengei
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.
Nagasaki
Hagoita-ichi (Senso-ji)
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.
Tokyo
Yuza no Koshogatsu Events (Meka District)
Experience the 'Yuza no Amahage,' a UNESCO-recognized tradition in Yuza Town, Yamagata. Witness the striking sight of red and blue demon-masked deities visiting homes in a rare display of Japanese winter culture.
Yamagata
Yoshino River Shirasu Unagi Fishing
Experience the mystical 'sea of light' on the Yoshino River during the winter. The lights from the fishing boats create a breathtaking scene like stars falling onto the water. A perfect moment for night photography and witnessing Tokushima's traditional winter landscape.
Tokushima
Akidaisai Yabusame Shinji (Osaka Tenmangu)
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.
Osaka
Fuefuki River Isawa Ukai
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。
Yamanashi
Kumagaya Uchiwa Matsuri
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.
Saitama
Kemari
Experience Kemari, the traditional ball game loved by Heian-period aristocrats. Witness elegant movements, unique traditional costumes, and the profound spiritual culture of Japan.
Nara
Dondo Hare (Journey to the Setting of the Drama & Kagamiya Model)
A journey through the culture and nature of Iwate, where you can experience the world of the drama 'Dondo Hare.' Perfect for fans of the series and travelers seeking traditional Japanese landscapes and heartwarming local culture.
Aichi
Mino Hanamatsuri (Mino Festival)
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.
Gifu
Hanamatsuri (Saba-uba District)
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.
Aichi
Miyoshi Bonten Matsuri
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.
Akita
Kyokusui no Utage
Experience the elegance of the Heian period with Kyokusui no Utage, a traditional ceremony of floating sake cups and poetry. Witness this beautiful spring ritual at historic Japanese shrines and gardens.
Fukuoka
Hita Kawa-biraki Kanko Matsuri
A quintessential summer event in Hita, Oita, featuring over 10,000 fireworks over the Mikuma River. Experience the traditional celebration of the sweetfish fishing season.
Oita
Uesugi Yuki Dourou Matsuri
A magical festival of light and snow in Yonezawa this February. The glowing lanterns create a heartwarming and beautiful winter scenery that is perfect for photography and peaceful strolls.
Yamagata
American Festival in Sasebo
A US-Japan cultural exchange held the last weekend of August. Features global food, live music, and a spectacular fireworks show on Sunday night.
Nagasaki
Oni-oi no Shiki (Enryaku-ji Temple)
The Oni-oi no Shiki is a traditional ritual held at Enryaku-ji on December 31st before the New Year's Eve bells. Witness the dramatic dance of the three types of demons and their spiritual guidance by monks. It is a profound and rare experience to feel the heart of Japanese spiritual culture at thi…
Shiga
Kitakami Michinoku Geino Matsuri
A grand festival of traditional arts held in Kitakami, Iwate. Enjoy a three-day program featuring intense Onikenbai dances, folk parades, and a spectacular fireworks display. A perfect way to experience the soul of Tohoku culture.
Iwate
Shoju Raigo Neri Kuyo-eshi (Taima-dera)
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.
Nara
Rokugo no Kamakura Event
A traditional event held from February 11th to 15th in Misato, Akita, boasting a 700-year history. Experience the mystical beauty of snow-built 'Kamakura' and the powerful, rhythmic sounds of the 'Takeuchi' bamboo striking at night.
Akita
Hira Hakkou
A traditional ritual held on Lake Biwa every March 26. Witness a profound cultural experience featuring Buddhist ceremonies, boat processions, and a spectacular fire ritual at Omatusaki.
Shiga
Yonabaru O-tsuna-hiki
Experience the power of the Yonabaru O-tsuna-hiki, a traditional Okinawan event featuring a massive 90m, 5-ton rope. Enjoy the intense energy of the tug-of-war and the spectacular summer fireworks in July.
Okinawa
Hino Yasaka Jinja Reitaisai
Experience the vibrant Hino Yasaka Jinja Reitaisai in mid-September. Witness the powerful Mikoshi procession and enjoy the lively atmosphere of traditional food stalls and local festivities in the heart of Hino, Tokyo.
Tokyo
Spring Handa Dashi Matsuri (Shimohanda District)
A stunning display of traditional Japanese beauty featuring ornate floats and glowing lanterns. Experience the historic charm and seasonal energy of a spring festival in Handa.
Aichi
Tochigi Aki Matsuri
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.
Miyagi
Sendai Otsunahiki
Experience the 1,600-year-old tradition of the Sendai Otsunahiki, featuring a massive 7-ton, 365-meter straw rope. A powerful cultural spectacle in Satsuma-Sendai, Kagoshima.
Kagoshima
Myoenji Mairi
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.
Kagoshima
Oniyo
A traditional fire festival in Kurume, Fukuoka, where massive 13-meter torches pierce the January darkness. The sight of the roaring flames and flying sparks is truly breathtaking.
Fukuoka
Shuri Castle Park: New Year's Celebration
A festive New Year celebration showcasing the grandeur of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Witness royal processions and traditional music at Shuri Castle.
Okinawa
Todai-ji Manto Koyo-e
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.
Nara
Nagasaki Sailing Ship Festival
A historic event featuring majestic sailing ships in Nagasaki. Enjoy the sight of large vessels and beautiful nighttime light-ups around the Dejima area.
Nagasaki
Shimoguri no Sato
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.
Nagano
Yunoo Jinja Kanmai (Yunoo Shrine Masked Dance)
Experience the profound beauty of 'Yunoo Jinja Kanmai' on the night of November 23rd. This 500-year-old masked drama from Kagoshima, set to the sounds of traditional flutes and drums, offers a breathtaking glimpse into Japanese mythology.
Kagoshima
Tsujiki Shinmei-sha Hikiyama Festival
Experience the Tsujiki Shinmei-sha Hikiyama Festival, a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in Tsuchikasa Port, Akita. On July 20 and 21, watch approximately 20 magnificent, elaborately decorated floats parade through the streets in a powerful display of tradition.
Akita
Kokokuji Toro Yaki
A traditional spirit-sending ritual with over 750 years of history in Yura, Wakayama. The highlight is the spectacular sight of a giant clay figure being cast into fire, creating a massive pillar of flame on the night of August 15th.
Wakayama
Gujo Odori
Experience the thrill of Gujo Odori, one of Japan's top three Bon Odori festivals! The 'All-Night Dance' from August 13-16 is an incredible spectacle of energy. With simple steps for beginners, anyone can join the circle. Wear a Yukata to enjoy a truly authentic Japanese summer night!
Gifu
Miyajima Kiyomori Matsuri
The Miyajima Kiyomori Matsuri brings the island to life in June. Through this traditional event honoring Taira no Kiyomori, you can feel the passion of the island's history and culture. Enjoy a special moment where beautiful nature and tradition converge.
Hiroshima
Hase no Matsuage
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.
Kyoto