Lantern Events in Japan

Shoro Nagashi Lantern Floating Ceremony

This religious festival is loud with firecrackers and gongs, a solemn and joyous seeing-off.

Yanai Goldfish Lantern Festival

Glowing goldfish put on a show in hopes of revitalizing this small village in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Hiroshima Toro Nagashi Lantern Floating

Each year, on August 6, candle-lit lanterns are set afloat on the Motoyasu River.

Akita Kanto Festival

A parade of people balancing long, heavy poles-who wouldn't want to see that?

Kihoku Lantern Festival 2024

Picture a large lantern floating in a harbor with evening fireworks.

Otaru Light Snow Path 2024

A quieter alternative in Sapporo's beautiful snows.

Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival

Light up a cold winter's day with this lantern festival.

Nankinmachi Lantern Fair

Kobe's China Town comes alight with dozens of lanterns

Onomichi Lantern Festival

Don't miss this lantern festival with a contemporary twist.