Events in Japan

Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 Fireworks

From sacred shrine illuminations to fierce pyrotechnic showdowns, each fireworks display tells a story. It all culminates in a dazzling 30-minute finale on 23 July.

Osaka Whisky Festival

Neat, on the rocks, or with a twist. However you like it, Whisky Festival Osaka is serving up a dram good time.

Tōyako (Lake Toya) Manga Anime Festa 2025

Every year, thousands of anime and manga fans descend on the peaceful town of Tōyako Onsen.

Kyoto Antique Fair

The Kyoto Antique Fair, western Japan’s largest, gathers over 350 dealers offering kimono, ceramics, relics, and more.

Expo ’70 Hydrangea Festival

Expect a full range of hues, from soft pinks to deep blues.

Takasaki City Rock Festival

With shows happening across venues near Takasaki Station, this is an unmissable weekend for Japanese rock fans.

Toshio Suzuki and Studio Ghibli Exhibition in Nagano

Calling all Studio Ghibli fans. This Nagano exhibition explores the creative genius and inspirations behind the work of Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki.

Naked Flower Tower

This is a whole new, high tech way to enjoy spring's many blossoms.

Kyoto’s Yanagidani Kannon Hydrangea Week

Each June, Yanagidani Kannon in Kyoto draws visitors with 5,000 blooming hydrangeas.

Aizen Festival

Get ready for the first of Osaka's major summer festivals.

Anime Fireworks near Mount Fuji

This fireworks event unites the best of both worlds: pyrotechnics and anime.

Mt. Fuji Opening Fireworks Festival

To mark the opening of Mount Fuji climbing season, there will be fireworks on the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko.

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

Discover handmade treasures and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Kyoto’s Umekoji Handicrafts Market, a monthly gathering of artisans and creators.

Abare Festival

The Abare Festival, also known as the "Fire and Violence Festival," is a fierce annual event in Noto, Ishikawa, featuring chaotic mikoshi rituals and fiery traditions.

Ito Matsukawa River Tub Riding Race

This quirky race held since 1956 sees individuals in barrels paddle down the Matsukawa River in Ito City on the Izu Peninsula.

Mishima Skywalk Hydrangea Festival

With 13,000 hydrangeas in 205 varieties and a selection of hydrangea-themed snacks, pay a visit to the Mishima Skywalk Hydrangea Festival to brighten up the rainy days.

Miyajima Kangen-sai Festival

Kangen-sai is the largest and greatest annual festival held at the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima island.

Traditional Noh Performance in Kyoto

Experience Noh theater up close and personal.

Hakata Gion Yamakasa

Hakata Gion Yamasaka is one of Fukuoka's largest festivals.

Ise Shrine Dedication Fireworks Festival

One of Japan's most famous, with approximately 7000 fireworks launched in a competition format.

Tōji Temple Flea Market

Visit Tōji Temple, one of Kyoto's oldest temples, and explore the bustling Kobo-ichi Market. Held monthly, this vibrant market is an unmissable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Osaka Kansai Expo 2025 Fireworks

From sacred shrine illuminations to fierce pyrotechnic showdowns, each fireworks display tells a story. It all culminates in a dazzling 30-minute finale on 23 July.

Nagoya Port Fireworks Festival 2025

A small (just 3,000 fireworks), but scenic, fireworks festival.

Kawaguchiko Lavender Herb Festival

This Mount Fuji town will celebrate more than 100,000 lavender shrubs. What happens? This is the time of year when the town of Fujikawaguchiko gets a brush of purple over its landscape. Taking …