Festivals in Japan: A Traveler's Guide
We love our festivals in Japan!
For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience, Japan's festival scene offers a fun year-round calendar of celebration, community and artistic endeavor.
Festivals in Japan, known as "matsuri" in Japanese, provide visitors with unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in Japan’s heritage and contemporary culture.
When planning your trip to Japan, we highly recommend incorporating a festival (or two) into your itinerary. It’s a great way to experience the real Japan. Let’s find out why!
The Cultural Significance of Japanese Festivals
Festivals have been an integral part of Japanese society for centuries.
Many festivals can trace their origins to ancient religious observances. These events, often associated with Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples in Japan, served various purposes. That includes honoring deities, praying for bountiful harvests, warding off misfortune or commemorating historical events.
In modern Japan, while many festivals retain their spiritual foundations, they've evolved into multifaceted community gatherings. These events bring people together, showcase local culture and attract visitors from across Japan and around the world.
For travelers, attending a Japanese festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the real Japan and its culture firsthand, while sampling regional cuisine and witnessing spectacular displays of artistic performances.
Festivals in Japan allow contemporary Japanese society to connect with its heritage in tangible ways. For many communities, the process of preparing for and participating in annual festivals is a source of local community pride and a means of strengthening social bonds.
Festivals play a crucial role in preserving time-honored arts and crafts. Many matsuri feature performances of classical music, dance or theater that might otherwise rarely be seen. Skilled artisans often create special items for festivals, from elaborate floats to intricate costumes, thus helping to keep ancient techniques and artistic traditions alive for future generations.
A Year-Round Calendar of Festivals in Japan
Japan's festival calendar sees events occurring throughout the year. Each season shows Japan’s appreciation for nature's cycles and the change in weather & scenery.
Spring means cherry blossoms. Communities across Japan host hanami (cherry blossom viewing) festivals, transforming parks and riverbanks into festive picnic grounds. The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in Aomori Prefecture is a great example, combining the fleeting beauty of the blossoms with the historic charm of Hirosaki Castle. You can see this in a wide variety of Japanese destinations in cherry blossom season, which typically happens in late March and into April (though every year is a bit different).
As spring transitions to summer, the festival season kicks into high gear. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, spanning the entire month of July, is one of Japan's most famous festivals. Its grand procession of ornate floats, some standing several stories tall, gives you a taste of Kyoto’s long, celebrated history. In Tokyo, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival illuminates the summer sky with a pretty amazing pyrotechnic display, an event that dates back to the Edo period.
The summer heat brings with it a multitude of energetic dance festivals. The Awa Odori in Tokushima is one of the largest, featuring thousands of dancers moving to a hypnotic rhythm through the city streets. Meanwhile, in northern Japan, the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri wows crowds with its massive illuminated floats depicting mythical beings and historical figures.
As autumn brings out the reds, yellows and oranges (the color, not the fruit) across Japan, festivals take on a more reflective tone. The Takayama Autumn Festival in Gifu Prefecture showcases ornate floats in a setting of historic architecture and fall foliage. Early fall sees numerous moon-viewing festivals, or tsukimi, where people gather to appreciate the beauty of the full moon, often accompanied by cherished Japanese foods and (of course) sake.
Winter brings its own unique celebrations, despite the cold. The Sapporo Snow Festival turns Hokkaido's capital into a winter wonderland, featuring enormous snow and ice sculptures that draw millions of visitors. In Nara, the ancient Omizutori ceremony at Todaiji Temple culminates in a spectacular fire ritual, marking the arrival of spring and the Buddhist new year.
These are just a handful of so many great examples of festivals in Japan through the seasons.
The Evolution of Japanese Festivals
While many Japanese festivals have roots stretching back centuries, they continue to evolve with the times. Some events have grown from small local gatherings into major tourist attractions, while others have maintained their intimate, community-focused character.
In recent years, there's been a notable trend towards reviving forgotten or declining festivals. Local communities, recognizing the cultural and economic value of these events, have invested considerable effort into researching and restoring old traditions. This renaissance has breathed new life into many regional festivals, helping to preserve local customs and attract visitors to lesser-known areas of Japan.
Simultaneously, new festivals continue to emerge, reflecting contemporary aspects of Japanese culture. The Pikachu Outbreak in Yokohama, featuring parades and displays of the popular Pokémon character, is a prime example of how modern pop culture can be celebrated in a festival format. Other new events focus on themes such as environmental awareness, international exchange and even technology.
Experiencing Japanese Festivals: A Traveler's Guide
For travelers planning to experience a Japanese festival, some preparation can greatly enhance the experience.
Many popular festivals draw enormous crowds, so it's advisable to make hotel arrangements well in advance and be prepared for higher prices during these peak times. Researching the festival schedule is also crucial, as some events span several days or even weeks, with different activities happening each day.
Dressing appropriately for the occasion and weather is important. Summer festivals often call for light, comfortable clothing, while some events may require more formal attire if you're participating in certain activities. Many summer festival-goers enjoy wearing yukata, a light cotton kimono, which can often be rented in popular tourist areas.
Food is an integral part of the festival experience in Japan. Festival food stalls, known as yatai, offer a wide array of delicious treats. From savory takoyaki (octopus balls) to sweet kakigori (shaved ice), sampling the local festival fare is a must-do for any visitor.
When attending festivals associated with shrines or temples, it's respectful to learn some basic etiquette in Japan, such as how to properly cleanse your hands and bow at the entrance. Many festivals welcome visitor participation, but it's always wise to be mindful of local customs and any restrictions that may be in place.
Popular festivals can be extremely crowded, so while Japan is generally considered a safe country, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. While photography is generally allowed and encouraged at most festivals, it's crucial to be respectful of performers, other attendees and any specific rules about photography or video recording.
Types of Japanese Festivals
Japan’s festivals come in many forms, each with its own unique characteristics:
Seasonal Festivals: Many festivals are tied to the changing seasons, such as cherry blossom viewing in spring or moon viewing in autumn
Religious Festivals: These are often associated with Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples and may involve rituals, processions or prayers
Fire Festivals: These dramatic events often involve lighting large bonfires or carrying flaming torches
Dance Festivals: Many regions have their own traditional dances that are performed during summer festivals
Cultural Festivals: These celebrate various aspects of Japanese culture, from traditional arts to modern pop culture
Food Festivals: Dedicated to celebrating local or seasonal cuisines
Historical Reenactments: Some festivals recreate important historical events or traditional ways of life
Each type of festival offers a unique window into Japanese culture.
Religious festivals, while sometimes solemn, can also be joyous and lively affairs. The Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo's Asakusa district, for example, honors the three founders of Sensoji Temple with three days of parades, music and festivities that draw over a million visitors each year.
Fire festivals, or hi-matsuri, are among the most spectacular events in the Japanese festival calendar. The sight of hundreds or even thousands of torches illuminating the night is truly unforgettable. One of the most famous is the Nachi Fire Festival in Wakayama Prefecture, where huge torches are carried up the stone steps of Nachi Taisha shrine, symbolizing the waterfall behind the shrine.
Major Festivals Throughout the Year
Here's a month-by-month guide to some of Japan's most significant festivals:
January
Hatsumode: The first shrine visit of the New Year, observed nationwide
Toka Ebisu (Osaka): A festival praying for business prosperity
February
Setsubun: A bean-throwing festival to ward off evil spirits, celebrated nationwide
Sapporo Snow Festival: A spectacular display of enormous snow and ice sculptures
March
Omizutori (Nara): An ancient Buddhist ceremony involving fire and water
Hina Matsuri: The Doll Festival, celebrating girls' growth and happiness
April
Cherry Blossom Festivals: Held throughout Japan as cherry blossoms bloom
Takayama Spring Festival: One of Japan's most beautiful festivals, featuring elaborate floats
May
Sanja Matsuri (Tokyo): One of Tokyo's largest and wildest Shinto festivals
Kanda Matsuri (Tokyo): A major festival held every odd-numbered year, featuring a grand procession
June
Sanno Matsuri (Tokyo): One of Tokyo's three great Shinto festivals, held in even-numbered years
Yosakoi Soran Festival (Sapporo): A high-energy dance festival
July
Gion Matsuri (Kyoto): One of Japan's most famous festivals, lasting for the entire month
Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka): One of Japan's top three festivals, featuring a river procession
August
Awa Odori (Tokushima): One of Japan's largest dance festivals
Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori): Famous for its enormous illuminated floats
Obon: A Buddhist event honoring ancestral spirits, celebrated nationwide
September
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (Osaka): A thrilling festival featuring fast-moving wooden floats
Tsukimi: Moon-viewing festivals held throughout Japan
October
Nagasaki Kunchi: A festival blending Japanese and foreign influences
Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto): A grand costume parade depicting various periods of Kyoto's history
November
Shichi-Go-San: A celebration for children aged seven, five and three
Karatsu Kunchi (Saga): Famous for its magnificent floats
December
Chichibu Night Festival (Saitama): One of Japan's top three float festivals, culminating in a fireworks display
Toshikoshi Soba: The tradition of eating soba noodles on New Year's Eve
Want to know more about Japan’s festivals and how to incorporate one into your travel itinerary? Why not schedule a complimentary consultation with Japan Travel Pros?
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Festivals in Japan
Q: What is the best time of year to experience Japanese festivals?
A: While festivals occur year-round in Japan, summer (July and August) is particularly lively with numerous events throughout the country. However, each season offers unique festival experiences, from spring cherry blossom festivals to winter snow festivals.
Q: Are Japanese festivals suitable for families with children?
A: Many Japanese festivals are family-friendly and can be enjoyable for children. However, some festivals can be crowded or have late-night events that might not be suitable for young children. It's best to research specific festivals to determine their family-friendliness.
Q: Do I need to speak Japanese to enjoy festivals in Japan?
A: While knowing some Japanese can enhance your travel experience, it's not necessary to speak the language to enjoy Japanese festivals. Many popular festivals have information available in English, and the visual spectacle of festivals can be appreciated regardless of language ability.
Q: Are there any specific etiquette rules I should know when attending a Japanese festival?
A: Basic etiquette includes being respectful of sacred spaces, following local customs for shrine or temple visits and being mindful of others in crowded areas. It's also polite to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
Q: Can tourists participate in Japanese festivals or just observe?
A: Many festivals welcome tourist participation, especially in activities like traditional dances or games. However, some elements of festivals may be restricted to local community members. Always follow the guidance provided by festival organizers.
Q: What should I wear to a Japanese festival?
A: For most festivals, casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate. In summer, light, breathable fabrics are recommended. Some people enjoy wearing yukata (light cotton kimono) to summer festivals, which can be rented in many tourist areas.
Q: Are Japanese festivals free to attend?
A: Many public festivals are free to attend, although some special events or viewing areas may require tickets. Keep in mind that while entry might be free, you'll likely want to budget for food, drinks and souvenirs at the festival.
Q: How can I find out about local festivals happening during my visit to Japan?
A: Local tourist information centers, hotel concierges and online event calendars are good resources for finding out about festivals happening during your visit. Many regions also have tourism websites that list upcoming events.
Experiencing Japanese Festivals: Tips for Travelers
Plan Ahead: Popular festivals can draw enormous crowds; reserve accommodations well in advance and be prepared for higher prices
Check the Schedule: Some festivals last for days or even weeks, with different events each day; research the schedule to catch the highlights
Dress Appropriately: Big One!! For summer festivals, light, comfortable clothing is best (but be respectful); some festivals may require more formal attire if you're participating in certain events
Try Festival Food: Food stalls, or "yatai," are a key part of many festivals; don't miss the chance to sample local specialties and classic festival foods
Learn Basic Etiquette: If visiting shrines or temples, learn basic etiquette such as how to properly wash your hands and bow
Participate Respectfully: Many festivals welcome visitor participation, but always be mindful of local customs and any restrictions
Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular festivals can be extremely crowded; stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
Capture Memories Responsibly: While photography is usually allowed, be respectful of performers and other attendees; some events may have restrictions on photography or video recording
Festivals in Japan continue to be a vital part of the culture, offering joy, community connection and a living link to Japanese heritage. For travelers, Japan’s festivals provide some of the most authentic and memorable experiences the country has to offer.