Festivals
A GaijinPot Field Guide to the Halloween Costumes of Japan
A primer on the ghastly creatures you may encounter in the wild this Halloween season.
By Matthew Coslett 4 min read
Japan Summer Music Festival Guide: Oh No, Let’s Go!
Fuji Rock, Summer Sonic and the whole shebang offer up your choice of rock, pop, jazz, EDM and more in the great outdoors.
22 of Japan’s Most Famous Matsuri: A Travel Calendar
From this summer through next spring, here’s your ultimate Japan festival guide.
Festivals of Japan: Sanja Matsuri
See one of Tokyo’s biggest, best and wildest festivals close up at the Sanja Matsuri.
A Guide to the Sapporo Snow Festival 2017
Headed to Japan's most popular winter festival this year? Or thinking to book a last-minute trip? Here's a guide for what you need to know before you go.
Osaka Tenjin Matsuri
The Tenjin Matsuri, which literally means “festival of the gods,” first started in the 10th century and is held every year in Osaka on July 24th and July 25th.
Get Dolled Up at Toride’s 12th Annual Hina Matsuri Festival
Toride City will be hosting its annual Hina Matsuri Festival with over 90 hina dolls on display.
Festivals of Japan: Otaru Snow Light Path Festival
Otaru is a port city steeped in a rich history located near Niseko on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido.
Festivals of Japan: Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival in Nara
Originating in the 18th century, the burning of Mount Wakakusa is one of Japan’s most spectacular winter festivals.
Festivals of Japan: Santera Mairi Festival
The town is also famous for its spectacular festivals with one of the best and most famous being the Santera Mairi Festival.
Festivals of Japan: Nozawa Fire Festival
The event climaxes in a massive bonfire as the wooden shrine succumbs to the flames of the attackers and is offered to the gods.
Festivals of Japan: Dezome-shiki (New Year’s Parade of Firemen) in Tokyo
The highlight and main attraction of the event is the amazing ladder stunts, which have a long history behind them.
