・When: Spanning from New Year's Eve into the early days of January
・Where (in Tokyo): Key locations include Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), and various other shrines and temples.
Marking a pivotal moment in the Japanese calendar, Hatsumode stands as the year's inaugural significant event. Across Japan, this tradition sees individuals flocking to shrines and temples, imbuing these sacred spaces with their hopes and prayers for a New Year brimming with peace and safety.

・When: 4th Saturday of January
・Where: Mount Wakakusa
The Wakakusa Yamayaki, an esteemed annual tradition on Mount Wakakusa, involves the symbolic burning of dead grass in Nara Park to honor ancestors. Integral to this event is the promotion of fire safety and prevention in Nara, along with prayers for global peace. A highlight of the celebration is a dazzling fireworks display, adding to the spectacle of the mountain's blazing slopes. The fusion of ground fires and sky-bound fireworks creates a memorable spectacle not to be missed.

・When: Weekends and holidays from January 20 to February 18, 2024
・Where: Mitsue Youth Travel Village
Delve into the enchanting world of the Mt. Miune Rime Ice Festival, where a trek up Mount Miune reveals landscapes adorned with sparkling rime ice. At the trail’s start and end points, indulge in the warmth of delicious mochi, amazake, and an array of local specialty foods. Cap off your adventure with a relaxing dip in the natural hot spring, a perfect way to soothe away the day's exertions.

・When: One day before the first day of spring (around February 4)
・Where: Sensoji Temple and other temples
Experience the vibrant Setsubun festival, a highlight for those exploring Japan's rich cultural traditions. Witness sumo wrestlers and 'toshi-otoko' (men born in the same zodiac year as the current one) perform the ancient ritual of bean scattering at Sensoji Temple, a practice believed to repel evil and bring good fortune. Many temples also host captivating dance performances and parades featuring "lucky men" and "lucky women," who join in this unique tradition of bean throwing, making it a must-see event for visitors seeking authentic Japanese festivities.

・When: February 4-11, 2024
・Where: Sapporo City Odori, Susukino, Tsudome, and others
The Sapporo Snow Festival, a signature winter event in Hokkaido, is a dream destination for those fascinated by Japan's artistic ingenuity. Here, 30,000 tons of snow are masterfully transformed into an array of sculptures, ranging from replicas of Japanese castles and world heritage sites to lifelike figures of famous athletes and beloved characters from manga, anime, and video games. This visually stunning festival is a testament to creativity and skill, offering visitors a unique and immersive way to experience the cultural richness of Japan in a winter wonderland setting.

・When: February 15-16, 2024
・Where: Various locations in Yokote City
Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Yokote City's Snow Festival, a tradition spanning nearly 450 years. This unique event features kamakura, quaint igloo-like snow huts, where visitors can observe the practice of placing monetary offerings for family safety. Inside these snow domes, you'll be greeted by local children offering amazake and mochi, all while conversing in the distinctive Akita dialect. This festival not only offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese customs but also provides a warm, hospitable experience that connects you deeply with the local culture of Yokote.

・When: Second Sunday in March
・Where: Mt. Takao Yakuo-in, foot of the mountain, Jidosha Kitoden Square
Discover the Fire Walking Festival (Hiwatari Matsuri) at Mount Takao, a sacred site and renowned trekking destination just outside Tokyo's urban buzz. This festival is a major event for practitioners of Shugendo, where the breathtaking highlight is witnessing the yamabushi (Buddhist monks) perform a daring walk barefoot over a bed of burning embers, covering eight square meters. For the adventurous visitor, there's even the opportunity to cross the flames yourself, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines spiritual practice with physical challenge, making it a must-visit for those seeking unique and thrilling Japanese cultural experiences.

・When: Late March to early April
・Where: Ueno Park
Step into the enchanting world of cherry blossoms at Ueno Park, a beloved viewing spot since the Kan'ei Period (1624-1644). Beyond the breathtaking sakura, the Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Enjoy traditional performances like the Daikoku-mai dance and Kotobuki lion dance by the Ueno Music Preservation Society. Explore the vibrant flower market, and delve into history at the Aozora antique market. This festival is not just a celebration of spring but a showcase of Japan's enduring traditions, making it an essential experience for anyone seeking the full spectrum of Japanese cultural heritage.

・When: Late March to mid-April
・Where: Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle Park, adorned with nearly 3,000 cherry blossom trees, becomes a magical destination during sakura season. The Nighttime Cherry Blossom Viewing at Nishinomaru Garden is a highlight, drawing visitors to experience the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms under the stars. This event offers a unique and unforgettable way to enjoy one of Japan's most cherished natural spectacles, making it a must-visit for those looking to fully embrace the beauty and tradition of Japanese springtime.

・When: Mid-April to early May
・Where: Shibazakura no Oka (Moss Phlox Hill, south side of Hitsujiyama Park)
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of the Shibazakura Matsuri (Moss Phlox Festival) in Chichibu, just an hour and a half from central Tokyo. The festival, held at the peak of the blooming season in Hitsujiyama Park's Shibazakura no Oka, showcases breathtaking carpets of moss phlox in an array of colors. Visitors can enjoy various events, savor the offerings of delightful food stalls, and bask in the stunning beauty of the flowers. This festival is a feast for the senses and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the picturesque and serene side of Japanese spring, away from the urban hustle.

・When: Mid-April to mid-June
・Where: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Explore the awe-inspiring Snow Wall (Yuki no Otani) Festival along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. This unique spring event features a 500-meter road flanked by colossal snow walls, reaching nearly 20 meters high. For an up-close experience, venture along the Snow Wall Walk, accessible near the bus stop. Here, you can stroll through the snow corridors and marvel at the majestic 3,000-meter mountains that surround you. This festival not only offers a chance to witness nature's grandeur but also provides a unique and unforgettable journey through Japan's alpine landscape, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking extraordinary natural phenomena.

・When: Late April to early May
・Where: Goryokaku Park
Enjoy the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms at Goryokaku Park in Hakodate City, known for its unique star-shaped fort from the late Edo Period. This historical site, adorned with nearly 1,600 cherry trees, becomes even more magical during the annual nighttime light-up event at Goryokaku Tower. From 7-9 PM each sakura season, the park is transformed into a luminous fantasy landscape, offering visitors a mesmerizing view unlike any other. This event is a must-see for anyone interested in the exquisite combination of Japan's historical architecture and natural beauty, especially during the captivating cherry blossom season.

・When: Late April to early May
・Where: Hirosaki Park
Join over two million visitors at the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, a spectacular celebration of spring in Hirosaki Park. With approximately 2,600 cherry trees encompassing 52 different varieties, the park offers a multitude of ways to enjoy the blossoms. Wander through the enchanting cherry blossom tunnel, explore the historic Hirosaki Castle surrounded by carpets of fallen petals adorning the moat, and experience the park's transformation during the stunning nighttime light-ups. This festival is a feast for the senses, perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in one of Japan's most breathtaking natural and cultural displays.

・When: May 3 - June 5
・Where: Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park
Explore the vibrant Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park, spanning 10 hectares of lush moss phlox fields, during the Shibazakura Festival. This event transforms the park into a lively celebration with stage performances, guided tours across the expansive grounds, enchanting night-time illuminations, and a spectacular fireworks display. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature alongside cultural entertainment, making it a must-visit for those seeking to enjoy Japan's scenic landscapes and vibrant festival atmosphere.

・When: May 15
・Where: Shimogamo Shrine / Kamigamo Shrine
Step back in time at the Aoi Matsuri, held at Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine, where you can witness a stunning procession reminiscent of the Heian period. Over 500 participants dress in exquisite Heian aristocrat attire and elegantly parade through Kyoto's streets. The procession, which begins at Kyoto Imperial Palace and passes through Shimogamo Shrine to Kamigamo Shrine, offers a breathtaking spectacle akin to a scene from a Japanese Heian picture scroll. This festival is a living testament to Japan's rich historical heritage, making it an unmissable experience for those interested in the country's traditional culture and history.

・When: Weekend before May 15 every other year (next event scheduled for 2025)
・Where: Chuo-dori, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Akihabara and others)
Don't miss the Kanda Matsuri, one of Japan's three major festivals, occurring biennially in the heart of Tokyo. The festival's centerpiece is a spectacular historical procession, where participants proudly carry the magnificent "Horen" mikoshi shrine. Accompanied by enthusiastic shrine parishioners clad in striking white costumes, this parade is a vibrant display of traditional Japanese culture and community spirit. This event, especially captivating for its grandeur and historical significance, is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the depth and vibrancy of Japan's festival traditions.

・When: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 3rd week of May
・Where: Asakusa Shrine
Join the vibrant energy of Sanja Matsuri, a three-day festival at Tokyo's iconic Asakusa Shrine and Sensoji Temple. One of the festival's most exhilarating highlights is the Chonai Mikoshi Rengo Togyo, a dynamic procession on the second day featuring nearly 100 mikoshi (portable shrines). Watch as the mikoshi are energetically rocked and shaken in the "tamafuri" (soul-swaying) tradition, a ritualistic display of fervor and devotion. This festival, with its lively atmosphere and deep-rooted cultural significance, offers visitors an authentic and spirited insight into Tokyo's community and traditions.

・When: Early-mid June
・Where: Hie Shrine
Experience the grandeur of Tokyo's cultural heritage at the Sanno Festival at Hie Shrine, renowned as the city's guardian deity. This prestigious festival features a splendid procession with mikoshi shrines and floats weaving through central areas like Ginza and Marunouchi. The event culminates in a song and dance festival at Hie Shrine, where visitors can witness 'Sato Kagura' and 'Kagura Music,' traditional Japanese ritual performance arts. This festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the rich tapestry of Tokyo's traditions and is a must-visit for those seeking to experience the city's historical and cultural depth.

・When: June 5-9, 2024
・Where: Odori, Sapporo City
Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the YOSAKOI Soran Matsuri, a summer festival bursting with color and energy in Sapporo. This major event showcases nearly 280 dance teams from across Japan and around the world, captivating audiences with their distinctive costumes, rhythmic hand-held clappers, and dynamic dancing. The festival is a celebration of creativity and cultural diversity, making it a must-see for those who appreciate the art of dance and are looking to experience one of Japan's most lively and visually stunning events.

・When: Mid-June to early October
・Where: Inakadate-mura, Minamitsugaru-gun
Witness the unique and breathtaking Tambo Art in Inakadate Village, where rice paddies are transformed into massive, colorful works of art. This artistic expression involves using different colored rice plants to create intricate designs and images across the fields. Inakadate Village skillfully utilizes seven colors and 13 varieties of rice to craft these stunning visual displays. Visitors can enjoy an elevated view of these agricultural masterpieces from two observation decks, providing a panoramic perspective of the vibrant rice paddy canvases. Free shuttle buses are available between the observation decks from June to early October, making this a not-to-miss experience for those interested in Japan's innovative fusion of art and agriculture.

・When: July 1-31
・Where: Yasaka Shrine
Step into the historical splendor of the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's three major festivals, celebrated annually at Yasaka Shrine. The festival's crowning glory is the Yamaboko floats, often referred to as "moving art museums" for their intricate designs and artistry. Witness the grand Yamahoko Junko, a majestic procession of these floats through the streets of Kyoto City. The Sakimatsuri on July 17 showcases 23 floats, while the Atomatsuri on July 24 features 11. These parades are not only visually stunning but also hold great cultural significance, having been registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage events. This festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Japanese tradition and cultural heritage.

・When: Late June to July 25 (Yoimiya event: July 24 / Hongu Ritual: July 25)
・Where: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Tenjin Matsuri at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, with a history spanning over 1000 years, is celebrated from late June to July 25 and attracts nearly 1.3 million visitors annually. The month-long festivities include the Rikutogyo (land procession) and the Funatogyo (sea procession), giving it the moniker 'Festival of Fire and Water.' This event stands as a testament to the enduring cultural vibrancy of Osaka and is a must-see for those seeking to immerse themselves in Japan's rich festival heritage.

・When: Mid-July
・Where: Miyagawa Riverside, Ise City (Watarai Bridge, upstream location)
**Ise Jingu Fireworks Competition** at the Miyagawa Riverside in Ise City, held in mid-July, is a remarkable event that serves as a votive offering to one of Japan's most esteemed shrines, Ise Jingu. Recognized as one of Japan's three major competitive fireworks festivals, this festival draws the nation's elite pyrotechnicians who showcase their passionate and artistic firework displays. The competition, set against the backdrop of the Miyagawa Riverside, near Watarai Bridge and upstream, offers an unforgettable spectacle, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the fusion of traditional Japanese spiritual practices with the art of modern pyrotechnics.

・When: Saturdays, mid-July
・Where: Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden, Nakafurano Flower Park
Nakafurano Lavender Festival is celebrated on Saturdays in mid-July at the Hokuseiyama Lavender Garden and Nakafurano Flower Park, located in the picturesque city of Furano. This festival is renowned for its breathtaking lavender fields. A scenic lift ride, lasting about five minutes, transports visitors to the top of the hill, offering a stunning panorama of the Furano Basin awash in vibrant purple lavender hues. Adding to the festival's allure, a lavender-themed fireworks display illuminates the night sky, creating a memorable experience for those who cherish nature's beauty and festive celebrations.

・When: Last Saturday in July
・Where: Sumida River
Tokyo's Famous Sumida Fireworks is a historic and spectacular event that dates back to 1733, now drawing nearly one million spectators annually. Recognized as one of Tokyo's most famous fireworks displays, this festival captivates audiences with its competitive and creative fireworks showcases. The event features an impressive array of nearly 20,000 fireworks, each meticulously designed, offering a mesmerizing visual feast. This renowned event is not just a display of pyrotechnic artistry but also a cherished tradition, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo and looking to experience an integral part of the city's cultural fabric.

・When: 3 days, late July to early August
・Where: Naeba Ski Resort, Yuzawa Town, Niigata Prefecture
Fuji Rock Festival, Japan's largest outdoor music festival, unfolds over three exhilarating days, drawing more than 200 musicians and over 100,000 spectators from around the globe. This event is not just a celebration of great music but also an ode to the great outdoors and a vortex of excitement. Set against a backdrop of scenic beauty, the festival offers more than just an impressive lineup of musical acts. Attendees can also indulge in a variety of delicious food stalls, adding a gastronomic delight to the auditory experience. The Fuji Rock Festival is a must-attend summer event for anyone eager to immerse themselves in a dynamic blend of music, nature, and culinary delights.

・When: August 1-4
・Where: Various locations in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture
The Sansa Odori Parade in Morioka City is a vibrant and rhythmic spectacle featuring over 30,000 dancers and taiko drummers parading down Chuo-dori. The parade commences with the 'Miss Sansa Odori,' a beautiful procession showcasing dancers adorned in stunning kimonos. This event culminates in the 'Wa Odori,' an inclusive circle dance where visitors are also encouraged to participate. The Sansa Parade is not just a display of traditional Japanese dance and music but also a celebration of community and inclusivity, making it a must-experience event for those who wish to engage actively in Japan's rich cultural festivities.

・When: August 2-3
・Where: Shinano-gawa Riverbed
Nagaoka Matsuri Fireworks Display, one of Japan's three major fireworks festivals, is a spectacular event spanning two days. It features a remarkable sequence of launching 100 size-10 fireworks balls back-to-back, creating a breathtaking spectacle in the sky. The highlight of the festival is the famous 'Shosan Shakudama,' a type of firework renowned for its overwhelming scale, with each firework creating a stunning 650-meter-diameter display. The Nagaoka Matsuri Fireworks Display is an event of grandeur and awe-inspiring beauty, making it a must-see for those seeking to witness the pinnacle of pyrotechnic artistry in Japan.

・When: August 2-7
・When: Central Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
Aomori Nebuta Festival stands out as a highlight of Japan's summer festivities, renowned for its parade of colossal 'Nebuta' lantern floats and lively 'Haneto' dancers. These floats, inspired by Japanese myths and folklore, add a mythical aura to the 3.1km long procession through the town. Complementing the visual spectacle, food stalls offering traditional Japanese drinks and delicacies line the parade route, attracting not just local spectators but also international visitors. This festival offers a unique blend of cultural artistry and gastronomic experiences, making it a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of Japanese summer celebrations.

・When: August 6-8
・Where: Sendai City center and surrounding shopping streets
Tanabata Festival is a celebration rich in tradition and color, renowned for its Fukinagashi decorations. These stunning bamboo adornments, made from vibrant washi paper by local artisans, represent prayers for prosperity and health. At the festival, visitors have numerous opportunities to engage with the customs of Bon Odori. The main venue invites attendees to write their wishes on paper strips and display them at the wishing strip corner, a poignant symbol of hope and dreams. In addition, the festival features an array of food stalls, offering a taste of various local specialties. This event not only celebrates cultural heritage but also provides a communal space for sharing wishes and enjoying regional culinary delights.

・When: August 16
・Where: Five locations in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Gozan no Okuribi, also known as the Daimonji Festival, is a traditional summer event marking the culmination of Obon, a period dedicated to honoring the spirits of ancestors. This ritual, held annually on August 16, involves lighting five bonfires at around 8 PM on five different mountains: Daimonji, Myoho, Funagata, Hidari-Daimonji, and Torii-gata. These fires are believed to guide the souls of the departed back to their spiritual realm after their brief return for Obon. A spectacular view of these bonfires can be enjoyed from the Kamogawa riverbank, offering a moment of reflection and connection to this deeply spiritual and historic Japanese tradition.

・When: Last Saturday/Sunday of August
・Where: Noboribetsu Onsen Town, Noboribetsu City
Jigokudani Matsuri, also known as the "Hell Festival," is inspired by the striking Jigokudani or "Hell Valley" in Noboribetsu Onsen, a renowned hot spring town. This festival embraces Japan's folkloric oni (ogres/demons) themes, offering a unique blend of cultural and mythological elements. Visitors can enjoy the rhythmic beats of Noboribetsu taiko drumming, witness oni-mikoshi (portable shrines) parades, and be captivated by oni (devil) dances. A key attraction is the parade featuring Enma, the legendary "King of Hell," bringing folklore to life. The festival reaches its climax with a grand fireworks display, illuminating Jigokudani with a spectacular array of lights, making it a must-see for those interested in experiencing a different and thrilling aspect of Japanese culture.

・When: August 31, 2024
・Where: Omagari Fireworks Park, Omagari Omono Riverside, Daisen City
In this exciting fireworks competition, artists from across Japan showcase their creativity and skill, creating stunning, original fireworks displays. The event is heightened by the inclusion of special features like the 'Special Star Mine,' which adds an extra layer of visual splendor. Coupled with upbeat music, these fireworks form a captivating spectacle, blending dazzling beauty with vibrant energy. This event is not just a display of pyrotechnic artistry but also a celebration of innovation and enthusiasm, making it a must-see for anyone looking to experience the dynamic and artistic side of Japanese festivals.

・When: Late August
・Where: Asakusa Umamichi-dori to Kaminarimon-dori
This vibrant contest-style parade, inspired by the original Rio Carnival, brings a burst of energy and color to the streets near Basha Street, a popular tourist destination in front of Sensoji Temple's Nitenmon Gate. The event features nearly 20 samba teams, each delivering exhilarating dance performances that capture the spirit and excitement of the Brazilian festival. The blend of traditional Japanese setting with the lively rhythm and flair of samba creates a unique and memorable experience, showcasing the diversity and dynamism of cultural celebrations in Japan. This parade is a must-attend for those who enjoy lively, festive atmospheres and wish to experience a fusion of international cultures.

・When: September 6-29, 2024
・Where: Sapporo Odori Park
This huge event takes place over three weeks and introduces a variety of cuisines from all over Hokkaido. Sample a wide range of exquisite local delicacies and specialty products from the municipalities and popular Sapporo shops, as well as international cuisine.

・When: September 14-15 and October 12-13, 2024
・Where: Various locations in Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture
Danjiri are 4-ton, 4-meter-tall wooden floats that race through the city at aggressive speeds, making spectacular sudden turns called yarimawashi, while spectators cheer from the roadside. The daikugata are people who dance with hand-held fans atop the floats as they move, entrancing the audience with their bravery and overwhelming presence.

・When: Early October
・Where: Lake Akan Onsen, Akan Town, Kushiro City
This festival comes from the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido. It began as a way to protect the Marimo, rare spherical balls of green alga found in Lake Akan. There are performances and Marimo observation sessions, a Torch Procession, and Ainu folk dances. The finale features a ceremony where Ainu people board a dugout canoe and return Marimo to Lake Akan.

・When: October 22
・Where: Heian Shrine
Jidai Matsuri is an autumn festival held at Heian Jingu Shrine, featuring a long, historical procession stretching out for about 2km. This procession combines 20 parades in a reproduction of eight eras of Japan: the Meiji Restoration, Edo, Azuchi-Momoyama, Muromachi, Yoshino, Kamakura, Fujiwara, and Enryaku Periods. You'll also see geisha in the Heian Women's Procession, adding a touch of glamor to the historical scenery.

・When: Mid-October to early December
・Where: Hasedera Temple
Hasedera has long been known as the 'Temple of Flowers.' The Hasedera Momiji Matsuri is a fall festival that brings together the splendid views of the five-storied pagoda and the colorful autumn leaves. While there are a variety of events to enjoy, don't miss the special autumn viewing of the giant Kannon statue. During the festival period only, you can even enter the Main Hall (a Japanese National Treasure), which is usually closed to the public, and touch Kannon's feet yourself!

・When: Mid-November to early December
・Where: Meiji Jingu Gaien
Meiji Jingu Gaien is an avenue stretching 300m in length and lined with ginkgo trees, dyed in bright yellow hues during the festival. At the event, you can buy special goods and handicrafts from all over Japan and try delicious local foods. It's an event sure to be bustling with visitors from all over!

・When: Early November to late January
・Where: Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
Osaka Hikari no Banen (or Festival of Lights) is an event that features brilliant illuminations in various places throughout Osaka. The illuminations along Midosuji, the most iconic street of Osaka, stretch from Umeda to Namba, for a total length of 4km! In Nakanoshima waterfront in Aqua Metropolis, one of Osaka's symbols, also boasts a stunning spectacle of lights that combines the waterfront scenery with projection mapping.

・When: Mid-November to mid-February
・Where: Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Marunouchi Nakadori, Maru Building
Marunouchi Naka-dori is a 1.2km street lined with brand shops and over 360 trees. During this event, the entire stretch glows with nearly 1.2 million LED lights in Marunouchi's symbolic color, champagne gold.

・When: Mid-November to end-December
・Where: Tokyo Midtown
This winter tradition takes place in Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi. Take a leisurely winter stroll through Hikari no Promenade, where glittering gold illuminations light up Midtown Garden. Then, check out the Snow Light Globe, a large, brilliantly glowing snow dome about 3m in height.

・When: Late November to mid-March
・Where: Sapporo Odori Park and others
This winter event began as Japan's first illumination. At the main Odori Park venue, trees and other objects are spectacularly decorated with 780,000 lights. There's also the Munich Christmas Market, where you can enjoy Christmas goods, mulled wine, and German cuisine.

・When: December 2-3
・Where: Chichibu Shrine
This Chichibu Shrine festival is a symbol of Japan and a registered UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Watch the parade of fabulous floats and kabuki carts, then sit down for a large-scale fireworks display - a sight you don't usually see in the winter!

・When: January 20 to February 14, 2024
・Where: Hoshino Resort Tomamu Area
The Ice Village is a winter-only attraction held at Hokkaido's largest snow resort, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. There are plenty of fun things to see and do, including the ice dome, an ice church, snow-themed shops, ice skating, and overnight accommodations at the dome.

・When: Mid-December to Dec. 31
・Where: Jozenji-dori, Sendai City
For this event, the zelkova trees along Sendai's main street Jozenji-dori are beautifully lit with nearly 420,000 LED bulbs, creating a beautiful tunnel of light known as the Sendai Pageant of Lights. Event contents vary by year, but some attractions you may see include concerts, street performances, and skating rinks.

・When: Selected days from late December to the end of February
・Where: Zao Onsen, Yamagata City
The Zao mountain range is home to Japan's rare winter phenomenon called 'juhyo,' or frost-covered trees, and are affectionately dubbed 'snow monsters' for their appearance. During the illumination period, the ropeway operates at extended hours so that you can experience their overwhelming presence from above, at night!

No matter when you visit, there's always something fun to do in Japan! There are all kinds of traditional events and festivals, from New Year's shrine visits to parades of gorgeous floats, as well as seasonal events featuring flowers and castle scenery.

Many of these Japanese festivals also offer valuable opportunities to interact with the locals. Regardless of which festival you attend or in which season you visit, one thing is guaranteed: each event is a new chance to create unforgettable new memories, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!

*Event schedules and contents subject to change/cancellation. Please check the official website of each event before going out.

Translated by: Krys Suzuki