Japan, the land of the rising sun, is known for its ancient culture and ancestral traditions. Among them, festivals (or “matsuri” in Japanese) hold a special place in the hearts of Japanese people and tourists. Would you like to discover these unique and fascinating events? Here’s a selection of the essential festivals you shouldn’t miss during your trip to Japan.
Sakura Matsuri: a celebration of cherry blossoms
Every spring, Japan is decked out in pink to welcome the cherry blossom (or sakura) season. From the end of March to the beginning of April, the parks and gardens are transformed into real living paintings, where it is pleasant to walk and picnic under the trees. Here are some symbolic places where you can admire this ephemeral beauty:
- Ueno ParkTokyo: one of the most famous places to admire sakura
- Himeji CastleHyogo: a beautiful setting with a white castle surrounded by cherry trees
- The Philosopher’s WayKyoto: a promenade lined with flowering trees along the canal
Gion Matsuri, the float festival in Kyoto
Every July, the city of Kyoto vibrates to the rhythm of Gion Matsuri, one of the largest and oldest festivals in Japan. Throughout the month, the streets of the city are decorated with lanterns and decorations to celebrate this traditional holiday. The highlight of the festival is the parade of giant floats (or “yamaboko”) that parade majestically through the streets accompanied by musicians and dancers in traditional costumes.
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri: a bright and colorful parade
At the beginning of August, the city of Aomori in the north of Japan hosts one of the country’s most spectacular festivals: Nebuta Matsuri. For several days, huge floats in the shape of legendary or mythological figures, which are illuminated from the inside by hundreds of lanterns, are paraded through the streets. Dressed in traditional costumes called “haneto”, participants dance and sing to the sound of drums to accompany these impressive creations.
Kanda Matsuri: a historical festival in Tokyo
Kanda Matsuri is one of the three main Shinto festivals in Tokyo. Held every two years (odd years) in May. The highlight of the festival is a procession of more than 100 mikoshi (portable altars) that passes through the streets of the city surrounded by participants in traditional costumes. This is an opportunity to take part in an authentic event steeped in history in the heart of the Japanese capital.
Takayama Matsuri: an alliance of the sacred and the profane
Takayama Matsuri is a festival held twice a year, in April and October, in the city of Takayama. It is famous for its ornately decorated floats (or “yatai”) and mechanical puppets (or “karakuri”). The festival is also an opportunity to visit traditional parades, demonstrations of local crafts and religious processions. Take advantage of this unique atmosphere and discover the cultural and artistic wealth of Japan.
Whether you’re passionate about Japanese culture or simply curious about exploring this fascinating world, Japanese festivals are an unforgettable experience. So don’t hesitate any longer and immerse yourself in the heart of ancestral traditions and experience magical and colorful moments!