Japan is filled with ancient traditions and cultural energy that come alive with yearly festivals. These fun celebrations, called “祭り” matsuri in Japanese, offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culture, honoring gods, seasons, and community bonds. Take a trip through Japan’s captivating festivals, discover their unique customs, and immerse yourself in the spirit of each season.
A Quick Jump To:
- Spring: A Burst of Renewal
- Summer: A Symphony of Colors and Sounds
- Autumn: A Tapestry of Colors
- Winter: A Season of Festivity and Warmth
Spring: A Burst of Renewal
As the delicate cherry blossoms awaken the land, Japan’s spring festivals usher in a season of renewal and hope.
節分 Setsubun (February 3rd)
Bid farewell to winter’s chill and ward off evil spirits with the lively Setsubun festivities. Families gather to throw roasted soybeans out their doors, shouting “鬼は外、福は内 “ Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi! (“Demons out! Luck in!”) to usher in good fortune.
ひな祭り Hina Matsuri (March 3rd)
Celebrate the strength and grace of young girls with the enchanting Hina Matsuri. Homes are adorned with elaborate displays of 雛人形 hina-ningyo dolls, depicting the Emperor and Empress and their court in a miniature world.
花見 Hanami (Late March to Early May)
Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of sakura blossoms during the enchanting Hanami celebrations. Parks and gardens transform into havens of pink and white as people gather under the delicate blooms to enjoy picnics, laughter, and the ephemeral beauty of spring.
Places we recommend:
- Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa グランドプリンスホテル高輪
- Chidorigafuchi Park 千鳥ヶ淵緑道
- Hibiya Park 日比谷公園
- Meiji Jingu Gaien 明治神宮外苑
- Roppongi Hills 六本木ヒルズ 毛利庭園・六本木さくら坂
- Ueno Park 上野恩賜公園
- Meguro River 目黒川
神田祭 Kanda Matsuri (Mid-May)
Witness the grandeur of the Kanda Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s most revered festivals. Elaborately decorated mikoshi shrines parade through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and lively performances, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Summer: A Symphony of Colors and Sounds
Summer in Japan bursts forth with a vibrant tapestry of festivals, filling the air with music, dance, and dazzling displays.
祇園祭 Gion Matsuri (July)
Experience the ancient traditions of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, a month-long celebration that culminates in a spectacular procession of enormous 鉾 hoko floats, illuminated lanterns, and traditional music.
七夕 Tanabata (July 7th)
Commemorate the celestial love story of Tanabata, the Star Festival. Write your wishes on colorful 短冊 tanzaku paper strips and hang them from bamboo branches, hoping for their fulfillment under the starry sky.
阿波踊り Awa Odori (August)
Immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythms of the Awa Odori, Tokushima’s iconic dance festival. Thousands of dancers clad in vibrant costumes fill the streets, performing the traditional Awa Odori dance, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of energy and joy.
Autumn: A Tapestry of Colors
As the leaves transform into hues of gold and crimson, Japan’s autumn festivals offer a tranquil escape amidst nature’s artistry.
月見 Tsukimi (Mid-September)
Celebrate the beauty of the full moon under the ethereal glow of Tsukimi. Gather with loved ones to enjoy moon-viewing rice cakes, known as 月見団子 tsukimi dango, and appreciate the serenity of autumn nights.
紅葉祭 Koyo Matsuri (October to November)
Embark on a journey through Japan’s stunning autumn foliage during the Koyo Matsuri. Hike through vibrant forests, admire the breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature’s transformation.
Check out Coto Academy’s Blog: Things to Do in November for recommended places for Koyo!
時代祭 Jidai Matsuri (October 22nd)
Travel through time with the Jidai Matsuri, a historical pageant that re-enacts key events in Kyoto’s past. Over 2,000 people dressed in traditional costumes parade through the city, bringing history to life.
高山祭 Takayama Matsuri (October)
Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Takayama hosts its renowned autumn festival. The festival’s highlight is the procession of lavishly decorated floats, surrounded by locals in traditional attire. Takayama Festival provides a glimpse into Japan’s mountainous regions and their unique cultural heritage.
Winter: A Season of Festivity and Warmth
As the year draws to a close, Japan embraces the winter season with lively festivals that bring communities together amidst the festive spirit.
東北雪祭り Tohoku Yukimatsuri (February)
Marvel at the awe-inspiring ice and snow sculptures of the Tohoku Yukimatsuri in Sapporo. Giant snow and ice creations transform Odori Park into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Places we recommend:
- あおもり雪灯りまつり For more information, click here!
- 弘前城雪燈籠まつり For more information, click here!
- 横手の雪まつり かまくら For more information, click here!
- 払田柵の冬まつり 蝦夷ほたる For more information, click here!
- 樹氷ライトアップ For more information, click here!
- 上杉雪灯篭まつり For more information, click here!
秩父夜祭 Chichibu Yomatsuri (December 2nd and 3rd)
Known as one of Japan’s three major Hikiyama festivals, the Chichibu Yomatsuri in December features dazzling floats adorned with lanterns. The festival’s nighttime procession creates a magical atmosphere, illuminating the winter sky.
初詣 Hatsumōde (January 1st)
As the year comes to a close, many Japanese people participate in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year. Shrines across the country bustle with activity, symbolizing a fresh start and offering prayers for good fortune in the coming year. Japan’s festivals, deeply rooted in its cultural and religious heritage, offer a captivating way to explore the nation’s diverse traditions. Whether you find yourself surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, dancing in the streets during summer, admiring historic processions in autumn, or witnessing the enchanting glow of lanterns in winter, each season brings a unique tapestry of experiences that contributes to the rich mosaic of Japan’s festival calendar.
なまはげ柴灯祭り Namahage Sedo Matsuri (February)
A winter festival is held in the Oga Peninsula of Akita Prefecture, Japan. It is a coming-of-age ceremony for young men, who dress up as scary ogre-like creatures called “namahage” and visit houses to scare and discipline children.
As you conclude your journey through Japan’s captivating festivals, remember the rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and vibrant celebrations embodying Japanese culture’s essence. Embrace the spirit of matsuri – the spirit of celebration, connection, and joy – and let the magic of Japan forever captivate you.
