Tokyo Festivals

Hanami in Tokyo 2024

Feb 28, 2024 By Michael Stigall

Rejoice for the end of winter is nearly here, and one of the best times to be in Japan is almost upon us. I am speaking, of course, of cherry...[ Click to read more ]

Hatsumode in Tokyo – Making Your First Shrine Visit of 2024

Dec 27, 2023 By Michael Stigall

New Years in Japan is laser-focused on firsts. You have your first sunrise of the year, which is very important, and other firsts like the Shinnenkai parties to bring in...[ Click to read more ]

Winter Illuminations in Tokyo 2023

Nov 30, 2023 By Michael Stigall

Christmas Day in Japan is just another working day for the most part.  The most interesting facet of the Christmas and holiday season in Japan is that all traces of...[ Click to read more ]

Japanese New Years’ Traditions

Nov 24, 2022 By Jason Gatewood

New Year is the main holiday of the year in Japan, and the country shuts down for several days as people take time off to spend time with their families...[ Click to read more ]

A Guide to Onsen and Super Sento in and around Tokyo

Sep 28, 2022 By Michael Stigall

The onsen is one thing that immediately comes to mind when one thinks of Japan, and it's no mystery why. In addition to appearing in most tourism-related media, they are...[ Click to read more ]

The Yukata Matsuri Festival in Himeji

May 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus

The yukata is a garment similar to a kimono worn in summer, particularly at matsuri (festivals). It is so popular some festivals celebrate it; these are called Yukata Matsuri. The...[ Click to read more ]

Furusato Matsuri Tokyo 2022

Dec 25, 2021 By Jason Gatewood

Like food? Silly question, right, of course you like food! If you are looking for the opportunity to sample dishes from all over Japan but don’t have the time on...[ Click to read more ]

Hatsumode in Tokyo – Shrines to Visit for New Years

Dec 24, 2021 By Bert Wishart

In Japan, celebrating New Year is all about 'firsts.' Perhaps the most important 'first' is the first trip to a shrine, a tradition called hatsumode. While this visit can happen...[ Click to read more ]

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 ]

Let’s Tour: Kamakura

Oct 19, 2021 By Jason Gatewood

Despite being one of the most densely populated parts of the world, containing the capital city and Japan's most significant urban area, Greater Tokyo is historically newer than many places...[ Click to read more ]