Embedded Files
Japan hosts amazing yearly festivals, some of which have been celebrated for centuries. Festivals, also called matsuri, are full of tradition and give visitors a unique look at Japanese culture that you won't find in a regular museum. What makes these festivals extra special is that many of them keep customs that have been passed down for generations. The fact that lots of Japanese people still take part in these festivals makes them even more unique – they're still very important events for communities, and that's why they're worth seeing.
If you're wondering which festivals are the best to attend, we've put together a list of Japan's most stunning and spectacular festivals that happen throughout the year. From the snowy showcase in Hokkaido to the summer bon odori dancing, these celebrations are a must-see while you're in the country.
How do Japanese people celebrate a Matsuri festival?
How do Japanese people celebrate a Matsuri festival?
Matsuri festivals in Japan can be a celebration of various things, such as local deities, bountiful harvests, good luck, tasty sake, and personal fulfillment. The rituals during these festivals can range from passionate and intense to relaxed and peaceful. While major matsuri festivals often take place in big cities during the summer or winter, you can discover smaller local matsuri with their unique charm throughout the country all year round.
Most matsuri festivals are organized annually or semi-annually by a shrine and can span from a single day to an entire month. While there's no exact count of how many matsuri happen in Japan each year, estimates suggest it could be as many as 300,000!
Besides the vibrant costumes and music, a significant feature of many matsuri is the "mikoshi," a portable shrine believed to carry a deity and energetically paraded through the neighborhood. Common activities during these festivals include group dances, burning effigies, showcasing parade floats, and performances with traditional instruments. Surrounding these events, you'll often find temporary stalls offering food, drinks, souvenirs, toys, and more. Local residents may dress in kimono or yukata to enjoy the parade while savoring festival delights like chocolate bananas, karaage fried chicken, okonomiyaki pancakes, yakisoba noodles, and more. If you're looking for a reason to wear a kimono or yukata, a matsuri is the perfect occasion.
The most renowned winter festival in Japan is undoubtedly the Sapporo Snow Festival. This annual matsuri occurs up north in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, showcasing stunning snow and ice sculptures throughout the city's Odori Park and a few other locations. Alongside the larger-than-life snowy masterpieces, the event presents over 100 smaller snow sculptures and live concert performances. Sapporo's entertainment district, Susukino, also boasts around 100 ice sculptures, while Tsudome, Sapporo's community center, offers interactive snow slides, rafting, and various family-friendly activities.
Why to visit
Why to visit
While the festival is enjoyable both during the day and night, the evening brings a magical touch as the snow and ice sculptures are illuminated until 10 pm (11 pm in the Susukino area). Additionally, the festival offers numerous family-friendly activities for kids.
When and Where
When and Where
The Sapporo Snow Festival unfolds over one week every February at Odori Park and the entertainment district of Susukino.
The 2024 festival is from February 4 to 11
One of northern Tohoku’s standout events, the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri revolves around massive and dramatic "nebuta" paper lantern floats shaped as deities, mythical creatures, kabuki actors, and more. Celebrated simultaneously in nearly every region of Aomori Prefecture during early August, popular places to witness it include Aomori City, Hirosaki, and Goshogawara. Accompanying the floats are "haneto" dancers, executing an energetic routine synchronized to musical accompaniment while adorned in vibrant attire.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
One of the most beloved festivals in the country, the Aomori Nebuta Festival, earned the designation of an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan in 1980. Make sure not to overlook the festival's final day, a spectacle where the nebuta floats are placed on boats in Aomori Bay and sail around amidst a breathtaking fireworks display.
When and Where
When and Where
Annually between August 2 and 7. Float parades grace the evenings every day except on August 7, the night reserved for floating the illuminated floats on boats in the bay.
Area around JR Aomori Station
Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, is a significant Japan-wide seasonal celebration occurring on July 7 and extending until mid-August, varying depending on the area. Throughout this period, individuals write their wishes on strips of rectangular "tanzaku" paper and hang them on bamboo branches, offering prayers to the stars. Streets, shopping arcades, homes, and stores come alive with vibrant streamers and bamboo leaf decorations, creating a lively and enchanting atmosphere.
Rooted in the Chinese Qixi Festival, Tanabata commemorates the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, star-crossed lovers symbolized by the stars Vega and Altair, separated by the Milky Way. Once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month in the lunisolar calendar, they are allowed to meet, marking the inception of Tanabata. During this time, the brilliance of light from Vega and Altair is believed to be at its peak, signifying the reunion of the two celestial deities.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
In addition to marveling at the beautiful streamers, Tanabata festivals offer a rich array of experiences, including live music performances, traditional dances, tempting food vendors, and a dazzling fireworks display to launch the festivities on the evening of August 5.
When and Where
When and Where
Held annually from August 6-8, with the festivities kicking off on the evening of August 5.
Location - Sendai Tanabata festival
Kanda Matsuri stands as one of Tokyo's largest Shinto festivals, tracing its origins back to the Edo period. Hosted by Kanda Myojin Shrine in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, the festival extends its vibrant celebrations across neighborhoods like Kanda, Nihonbashi, Akihabara, and Marunouchi. With over 200 portable shrines (mikoshi), around a thousand participants, and thousands of onlookers, the festival transforms the streets into a lively spectacle. The "honmatsuri" in its full grandeur occurs in odd-numbered years, while a simplified version is observed in even-numbered years. The main festivities, accompanied by week-long events, typically unfold over the weekend closest to May 15, featuring day-long processions on Saturday and mikoshi parades on Sunday.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Kanda Matsuri, where centuries-old traditions come to life in vibrant parades featuring beautifully adorned portable shrines and traditional performances. This festival is a vital part of Tokyo's rich cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of history and celebration. Enjoy the dynamic energy created by active community participation, fostering a sense of togetherness that adds an extra layer of charm to this spectacular event.
When and Where
When and Where
The main attractions of the event typically take place over the weekend closest to May 15, featuring day-long processions on Saturday and parades of mikoshi on Sunday. Every two years. Next one is 2025
Location: Kanda shrine
The Chichibu Yomatsuri, or Chichibu Night Festival, is an annual spectacle held at Saitama's Chichibu Shrine, boasting a rich tradition spanning over 300 years and recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The festival's centerpiece is the colossal floats adorned with intricate designs. During the evening procession, four large floats gracefully traverse the streets, accompanied by smaller floats called kasaboko and vibrant musical performances featuring flutes and taiko drums. While the surrounding areas can become bustling with crowds, the festival's culmination on the final day offers a breathtaking fireworks display and numerous food and drink stalls for a truly immersive experience.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
Chichibu Shrine is conveniently located approximately 90 minutes from central Tokyo, making it easily accessible for visitors already exploring the capital. The festival's uniqueness extends to its winter fireworks display, a rarity in Japan where fireworks are typically associated with the summer season.
When and Where
When and Where
The Chichibu Yomatsuri unfolds annually on December 2 and 3, with the main highlights, such as the grand float procession and the dazzling fireworks display, dominating the festivities on the second day.
Location: Chichibu Shrine
The Tenjin Matsuri is a renowned festival in Osaka, counted among Japan's three major traditional celebrations alongside Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Tokyo’s Kanda Matsuri. Dedicated to Osaka’s Tenmangu Shrine and honoring the deity Sugawara no Michizane, the god of scholarship and learning, the festival spans two days. The first day features rituals at the shrine, while the second day boasts vibrant processions on land and water. Participants in colorful costumes, including lion dancers and musicians, parade through the streets, and mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried to the Okawa River. In the evening, the shrines are placed on boats, and the procession continues on the water, accompanied by special performance boats and a fireworks display.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
The distinctive procession along the Okawa River makes the Tenjin Matsuri unique. Spectators can enjoy watching boats carrying noh (classical Japanese theatre) and bunraku (puppetry) performers sailing past from the riverside. The riverbanks are adorned with food and drink stalls, adding to the festive atmosphere.
When and Where
When and Where
The Tenjin Matsuri is held annually on July 24 and 25. The primary celebrations take place on the second day, featuring the street parade, the river procession, and a captivating fireworks display.
Location: Osaka Tenmangu
Gozan no Okuribi is a traditional Buddhist event in Kyoto that marks the end of the Bon Festival. On August 16, the mountains surrounding Kyoto are adorned with massive Japanese characters formed by ignited fires. The sequence involves the lighting of five send-off fires (okuribi), each burning for approximately 30 minutes.
Participants burn sticks, known as gomagi, on which prayers are inscribed. These prayers are dedicated in advance to bid farewell to the spirits of ancestors and seek blessings for the well-being and longevity of the living. Numerous vantage points offer spectacular views of the send-off fires throughout Kyoto, with the rooftops or upper floors of hotels around Kyoto Station being optimal for observing all five characters.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
Witnessing the massive bonfires on the mountainside during the festival offers a unique and visually stunning cultural experience, showcasing traditional Japanese customs and beliefs. The festival provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Kyoto, especially from vantage points like Kiyomizu-dera or Fushimi Inari Shrine
When and Where
When and Where
Daimonji Festival, takes place on August 16th in Kyoto, Japan.
The main locations where you can observe the bonfires include Daimonji-yama, Funaokayama, Nyoigatake, and others. The fires are typically lit after sunset and are a significant part of the Obon Festival
The Kyoto Gion Matsuri is the annual festival of Yasaka Shrine, boasting a rich history of around 1,100 years. Regarded as one of Japan's top three festivals alongside Tokyo’s Kanda Matsuri and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri, the celebration unfolds throughout the entire month of July. The highlight of the festival is the procession of 33 substantial floats, known as yamahoko, gracefully parading through the streets of Kyoto. Remarkably, 29 of these floats hold the distinction of being Important Tangible Cultural Properties. The festival features a grand main procession, followed by a smaller one on a subsequent date.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
Given that the festival unfolds over the course of an entire month, there's an array of events to cater to various interests as long as you find yourself in Kyoto during July. Numerous lead-up events precede the main procession, allowing you to witness the intricate assembly of ornate floats, explore beautifully adorned folding screen displays in Kyoto’s traditional machi-ya townhouses, and partake in various other activities.
When and Where
When and Where
The festival unfolds throughout the month of July, with the grand procession of floats set for July 17. Additionally, a second, smaller procession is scheduled for July 24.
Location: Intersection of Karasuma and Shijo streets
This annual celebration unfolds in Tokushima and stands as one of Japan's renowned summer dance festivals. Drawing thousands of visitors each year, the festival showcases the "fool's dance" with a history spanning over 400 years. Festivities occur throughout the day, culminating in the evening when groups dance through the streets of downtown Tokushima. Accompanied by traditional musical instruments, the dancers create a captivating rhythm. Women typically don colorful yukata (summer kimono), while men don happi (lightweight coats with straight sleeves).
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
In addition to the vibrant dance procession, the festival features multiple stages hosting performances by professional dance groups. The lively atmosphere extends to food stalls and games, offering a festive experience. If you're feeling adventurous, you might even have the chance to join in a dance or two and showcase your moves – so feel free to join the fun!
When and Where
When and Where
The Awa Odori is held during obon season in mid-August. It's generally held from August 12 to 15
Location: Tokushima's city center
The Hakata Dontaku Matsuri in Fukuoka stands out as Japan's largest festival during the Golden Week holidays in May, attracting a staggering 30,000 participants. The festival spans two days and reaches its climax with the Hakata Matsubayashi, two massive parades winding through the streets of Fukuoka. With a history spanning over 800 years, the festival features local residents from Fukuoka and the Kyushu region showcasing traditional dances accompanied by lively marching bands. Participants don bright, traditional costumes, and the procession includes six large floats, called hana jidosha, adorned with fresh flowers. The festival's final evening invites everyone to join in the dancing, creating a spirited conclusion to the celebration.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
The Hakata Dontaku Matsuri in Fukuoka promises a delightful experience beyond the grand parades. Throughout the city, stages host lively live performances, and an array of enticing food and drink stalls add to the festive atmosphere.
When and Where
When and Where
The festival takes place on May 3 and 4 every year over the Golden Week holidays.
Location: Meiji-Dori street
The centerpiece of Hakata Gion Yamakasa is the thrilling Oiyama event, where participants compete in races carrying massive 1-tonne floats (yamakasa). This historic festival, held at Kushida Shrine in Fukuoka, has captivated audiences for over 700 years, making it one of the city's most renowned celebrations alongside Hakata Dontaku. Throughout the festival period (July 1–15), Hakata comes alive with an energetic atmosphere. On the first day, you can witness 14 beautifully decorated yamakasa, towering between 10 to 15 meters, displayed across the city.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
The festival fosters a strong sense of community spirit, as locals come together to celebrate and participate in various events. Hakata Gion Yamakasa features traditional performances, including lively music and dance, adding a dynamic and festive atmosphere to the celebration.
When and Where
When and Where
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is held annually in Fukuoka, Japan, during the month of July. The festival's main events typically take place from July 1st to July 15th. The climax of the festival is on July 15th, known as "Oiyama," when the elaborate floats, called "kakiyama," are paraded through the streets.
Location: Kushida shrine
The Karatsu Kunchi Festival, held in the city of Karatsu in Saga prefecture, southwest of Fukuoka, is a vibrant celebration of the autumn harvest. During this event, grand hikiyama floats are elegantly paraded from Karatsu Shrine to Nishino Beach. Renowned for its visual appeal, this festival showcases meticulously crafted floats, some of which take up to three years to create and are adorned with gold and silver. The festival's first evening features the large hikiyama adorned with lanterns, gracefully making its way through the brightly illuminated streets.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
The floats featured in the Karatsu Kunchi Festival are truly unique and distinguishable from those seen in other parts of Japan. Standing at a remarkable height of 7 meters, these floats boast extraordinary shapes, including lions, vibrant fish, and even airborne dragons, contributing to the festival's distinctive charm.
When and where
When and where
The festival takes place from November 2 to 4. If you can’t make it to the festival, Karatsu is still worth a visit: the iconic floats are displayed at an exhibition hall the rest of the year.
Location: Karatsu shrine
Originating as a modest celebration for the Chinese New Year, the Nagasaki Lantern Festival has evolved into a mesmerizing spectacle featuring over 15,000 lanterns that paint the city in hues of fiery reds and vivid yellows. Taking place during the Lunar New Year, the festival draws more than a million visitors to Nagasaki City's Chinatown and surrounding areas, offering a captivating experience with lantern displays, fireworks, traditional dances, theatrical performances, and more. Initially initiated by Chinese residents residing in Nagasaki Chinatown to celebrate the Chinese New Year, the festival garnered widespread admiration from Nagasaki's residents.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
The festival is renowned for its stunning and intricate lantern displays. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival is a celebration of Chinese culture, showcasing traditional Chinese lanterns, performances, and decorations. It provides an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage and diversity present in Nagasaki.
When and Where
When and Where
This year Nagasaki Lantern Festival
is held from February 9th to February 25th
Location: Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown
The Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri is a cherished tradition observed during the Bon Festival. This significant event spans three days and takes place in Okinawa City, situated in the heart of the main island of Okinawa. Eisa, a traditional dance, is performed to the resounding beats of large o-daiko drums or small high-pitched shimedaiko drums, accompanied by chondara jesters to add flair to the spectacle.
The festival kicks off with Michi-junee, a city-wide dancing parade on the first day. On the second and third days, attendees can revel in original Eisa performances presented by youth groups from Okinawa City and selected organizations from across the prefecture. The festival concludes with a captivating laser show and a display of vibrant fireworks.
Why should you visit
Why should you visit
Okinawa has a distinct cultural identity within Japan, and the Zento Eisa Matsuri provides a glimpse into the rich traditions, music, and dance that characterize Okinawan culture. It's a celebration that highlights the island's unique heritage.
When and Where
When and Where
The Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri is an annual festival, and the specific dates can vary each year. Typically, the festival takes place in late July. However, it's recommended to check the official festival website or local event calendars for the most up-to-date information on the schedule and dates for a particular year.
Location: Koza Sports Park
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse