Japan
January
Hatsumode (New Year's Visit to a Shrine)
The first shrine visit of the new year, occurring during the first few days of January.
Seijin no Hi
(Coming of Age Day)
Celebrated on the second Monday of January to honor those who have reached the age of adulthood.
The Nozawa Fire Festival
Is a dramatic and vibrant annual event where participants carry massive torches and set fire to wooden structures in a traditional purification ritual. This festival symbolizes the warding off of evil spirits and the ushering in of good fortune for the coming year.
February
Sapporo Snow Festival
One of Japan’s largest winter events, famous for its large and intricate ice sculptures.
Setsubun (Bean Throwing Festival)
Celebrated nationwide to mark the beginning of spring, typically involving the throwing of beans to ward off evil spirits.
March
Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival or Girls' Day)
Held on March 3rd, families display ceremonial dolls and pray for the health and happiness of young girls.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
Late March to early April is the season for cherry blossom viewing, a quintessential Japanese experience.
April
Takayama Spring Festival
Held in Takayama, this festival features beautifully decorated floats and traditional performances.
The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival
A stunning annual event held in Hirosaki Park, renowned for its breathtaking display of thousands of cherry trees in full bloom. Visitors flock to the festival to enjoy picturesque views, traditional performances, and various cultural activities amidst the park's historic backdrop and vibrant pink petals.
May
Golden Week
A collection of four national holidays within seven days, from late April to early May, leading to one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons.
Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival)
One of Kyoto’s three major festivals, celebrated with a parade in traditional Heian-period costumes.
July
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto's most famous festival, known for its grand procession of floats, traditional music, and performances.
Tanabata Matsuri (Star Festival)
Celebrated throughout Japan on July 7th, with colorful decorations and wishes written on strips of paper.
August
Obon Festival
A Buddhist event for commemorating one’s ancestors, marked by family reunions and traditional dance festivals known as Bon Odori.
October
Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)
Held in Kyoto on October 22nd, this festival features a large parade with people dressed in historical costumes.
Takayama Autumn Festival
Similar to the spring festival, featuring floats and cultural activities.
November
Shichi-Go-San (Seven-Five-Three Festival)
Celebrated on November 15th, this festival blesses the growth and well-being of young children.
Torii-no-Ichi (Rake Fair)
Held at Otori shrines, this festival involves the sale of decorative rakes for good luck and prosperity.
December
Chichibu Night Festival
Held in Chichibu, near Tokyo, this festival is known for its float parade and fireworks display.