Introduction
Japan is a country where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes throughout the four seasons, along with a variety of festivals. Japanese festivals offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the nation’s rich traditions and culture, making them a special memory for foreign visitors. This article will introduce popular festivals that are perfect for first-time travelers to Japan.
The Charm of Japanese Festivals
Japanese festivals, known as “matsuri,” vary by region and are held throughout the year, each with unique themes and events. From religious festivals rooted in Shinto and Buddhism to harvest festivals celebrating local abundance and modern-day festivals, there is a wide range of celebrations. Participants don traditional attire, enjoy dancing, music, and food, and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
Spring Festivals
1. Cherry Blossom Festivals (Hanami)
Cherry blossom festivals, known as “hanami,” are a hallmark of Japanese spring, celebrated nationwide. People gather in parks and temples where cherry blossoms are in full bloom to enjoy picnics and the stunning scenery.
Recommended Spots:
- Tokyo: Ueno Park, Meguro River
- Kyoto: Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park
- Osaka: Osaka Castle Park
2. Gion Festival (Kyoto)
The Gion Festival is one of Japan’s three major festivals, held in Kyoto throughout July. It features a month-long series of events, including the grand Yamaboko Junko procession and numerous stalls lining the streets.
Highlights:
- Yamaboko Junko: Lavishly decorated floats parade through the streets.
- Yoiyama: The floats are beautifully illuminated on the eve of the procession, with festivities continuing late into the night.
Summer Festivals
3. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is a signature summer event in Tokyo, held annually in July. Approximately 10,000 fireworks are launched along the Sumida River, creating a spectacular display.
Recommended Spots:
- Sumida Park
- Around Senso-ji Temple
- Azuma Bridge
4. Tenjin Festival (Osaka)
The Tenjin Festival, held in Osaka in July, is one of Japan’s three major festivals. Highlights include parades through the Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street and a grand fireworks display along the Okawa River.
Highlights:
- Land Procession (Rikutogyo): A parade through the Tenjinbashi-suji shopping street.
- River Procession (Funatogyo): Ceremonial boats traverse the Okawa River.
- Tenjin Festival Fireworks: Approximately 5,000 fireworks light up the night sky.
Autumn Festivals
5. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Yabusame (Kamakura)
Yabusame is a traditional archery event on horseback, held at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura in September. Watching archers shoot arrows at targets while riding horses is an exhilarating experience.
Highlights:
- Yabusame Ceremony: Get up close to see the skillful archers shoot arrows from horseback.
6. Nagoya Festival (Nagoya)
The Nagoya Festival, held in October, is a prominent autumn festival in Nagoya. Highlights include parades and warrior processions around Nagoya Castle.
Highlights:
- Hero Procession (Gokosho Gyoretsu): Parades featuring historical figures such as Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Events Around Nagoya Castle: Various stage performances and food stalls are available.
Winter Festivals
7. Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo)
The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February in Sapporo, attracts tourists from around the world. The festival features enormous snow and ice sculptures, creating a magical winter wonderland.
Recommended Spots:
- Odori Park: The main site with numerous snow sculptures.
- Susukino Site: Ice sculptures that are beautifully illuminated at night.
8. Nara Omizutori (Nara)
Nara Omizutori is an ancient festival held at Todai-ji Temple’s Nigatsu-do Hall in March. Monks carrying torches run through the temple, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Highlights:
- Torch Ceremony: Monks wield large torches, and the sight of the fire dancing in the night is mystical.
Conclusion
Japanese festivals offer unique and memorable experiences for foreign visitors. The festivals introduced in this article each have their own charm and are excellent opportunities to enjoy Japan’s diverse seasons. When planning your trip to Japan, be sure to include these festivals in your itinerary to create unforgettable memories.
Have you prepared your smartphone’s internet connection for your trip to Japan?
Japan has fewer free WiFi spots, which often leaves tourists struggling to use their smartphones. It is highly recommended to purchase an eSIM that can be used in Japan before your departure.
Recommended eSIM Service: Rakusim
Rakusim is a prepaid data eSIM that can be used domestically in Japan (voice calls are not supported). You can choose a plan that suits your travel period.
Since Rakusim uses a major carrier network (docomo), you can enjoy smooth internet access not only in urban areas but also in rural regions throughout Japan. You won’t have any trouble staying connected while on the move!
Enjoy a comfortable internet connection during your trip. For applications and details, please click here.