Festivals

Dream Yosacoy Festival 2021

Oct 19, 2021 By Jason Gatewood

Yosakoi dancing started in Kochi in Shikoku around 1954 as a way to celebrate postwar reconstruction, building spirit, and teamwork. Blending traditional Japanese dance and costume motif with modern music,...[ Click to read more ]

Wisteria Festivals: Aichi’s Other ‘Hanami’

Mar 18, 2020 By Bert Wishart

There can be absolutely no doubt that in Japan, the month of April is very much the month the cherry blossom tree. However, as quickly as it has come, the...[ Click to read more ]

‘Jewels of the Sea’ Miyajima Oyster Festival near Hiroshima

Jan 23, 2020 By Jade Brischke

Although Hiroshima is famous for its oysters throughout the year, it is during winter, in the coldest month of February that they're at their best.  Sure you can go to...[ Click to read more ]

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka

Aug 29, 2019 By Bert Wishart

With more than 300 years of history, the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is the oldest Danjiri Festival in Japan. Such festivals are held right throughout the country, but for most Japanese,...[ Click to read more ]

Sansa Odori : THE Summer Festival of Morioka

Jul 16, 2019 By Jade Brischke

Mention the name, ‘Sansa,’ and many people will inevitably think of the character Sansa Stark from, ‘Game of Thrones.’ The word, ‘Sansa,’ in Morioka, however, is all about dancing and...[ Click to read more ]

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Understanding Japan: The Tanabata “Star Festival”

Jul 08, 2019 By Bert Wishart

Tanabata, also known as the 'Star Festival', is a popular summer event celebrated all over Japan. As the festival's name suggests (literally 'Evening of the Seventh'), it is held on...[ Click to read more ]

Fall Festivals in Tokyo

Oct 30, 2018 By Jason Gatewood

Just because the leaves are golden (or gone), and the temperature has fallen, doesn't mean the festival numbers have gone down along with it. As always, you'll be able to...[ Click to read more ]

Understanding Japan: What is Obon?

Jul 30, 2018 By Bert Wishart

For many foreigners working in Japan, Obon is a great time, as most companies close for a bit of a summer holiday; it gives us a chance to hit the...[ Click to read more ]

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Ise Ebi Matsuri (Lobster Festival)

May 29, 2018 By Bert Wishart

For much of the world, there is little more decadent than dining out on lobster. However, here in Japan, lobster - while still relatively pricey compared to most seafood -...[ Click to read more ]

Rice Planting Events in Hiroshima

May 29, 2018 By Matt Mangham

I always recommend venturing out of the city if you can. Rural Hiroshima Prefecture is a knockout, and this is a wonderful time of year. The spring foliage still shows...[ Click to read more ]