Festivals

The Tori-no-Ichi (酉の市 – rooster market) is an open-air fair that takes place annually on the ‘Days of the Rooster’ in November according to the …

Literally meaning the “seasonal division”, Setsubun (節分) is an important Japanese celebration associated with the changing of seasons. Setsubun is traditionally celebrated on the day before the …

The first Sunday in April marks the celebration of the Shinto fertility festival, the Kanamara Matsuri or the “Festival of the Steel Phallus.” Known colloquially …

The Shimokita Tengu Matsuri (しもきた天狗まつり) or Long Red-nosed Goblins Festival is held over three days each year in late January/early February. The event is held …

If you’re only going to do one thing this winter in Japan, you have to experience the Sapporo Yuki Matsuri or Sapporo Snow Festival in …

If you’re heading to Hokkaido this winter, spend a couple of hours at a festival that can only be described as fantastical. The Sounkyo Hyoubaku …

What better way to celebrate Chinese New Year in Japan than at Yokohama’s Chinatown. The streets alive with a festive atmosphere, drop in for all-you-can-eat …

It may get hot and humid but don’t discount Japan in the warmer months. With the incredible amount of outstanding festivals, August is one of …

You’ve probably never heard of the Bram Stoker Festival in Dublin, but you will. One of the fastest growing and exciting festivals in Europe, you …