April 2026 Events in Japan

Osaka Castle Cherry Blossom Illumination

With extended evening hours, food stalls, and a rare chance to see Osaka’s iconic castle framed by illuminated cherry blossoms, this is nighttime sakura viewing at its most enchanting.

Takayama Spring Festival

The Takayama Spring Festival is one of Japan's most famous festivals.

Heian Jingu Reisai Festival

This annual festival features an opportunity to see geiko (the geisha of Kyoto).

Hikone Castle Cherry Blossom Festival 2026

This nighttime event lights up the thousands of cherry blossoms at Hikone Castle near Lake Biwa.

Nagahama Hikiyama Festival

See children's kabuki performances atop floats.

Hiroshima Mint Cherry Blossom Viewing

The Hiroshima branch of the Japan Mint has a garden of late blossoming cherry trees.

Arakurayama Sengen Park (Mount Fuji) Cherry Blossom Festival

The highlight of this Mount Fuji cherry blossom festival is the classic image of Japan you may see in guidebooks or blogs.

Hanabi Illusion 2026

Japan's earliest 'summer fireworks festival' takes place in Okinawa in April!

Nagano Marathon 2026

Pound the asphalt or cheer from the sidelines at the Nagano Marathon.

Fuji-Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival 2026

Take this chance to visit Kawaguchiko during cherry blossom season and be rewarded with an incredible view of Mount Fuji.

Kyo Odori

A performance by the geiko and maiko of Kyoto's Miyagawachō district to welcome spring.

Omagari Fireworks Festival Spring

Who says fireworks are just for summer? Akita's Omagari Fireworks Festival returns with its spring edition.

Kyoto Vegan Gourmet Festival Spring

Broaden your plant-based horizons at the Kyoto Vegan Gourmet Festival.

Spring Kemari Festival

This Nara festival features beautiful processions, rituals, and eventually a game of kemari.

Kintaikyō Bridge Festival

Enjoy the festival atmosphere at this traditional and years old recreation of the return of the Daimyo.

Miyako Odori Geiko Performance

Celebrate spring in Kyoto with the annual Miyako Odori, a performance by Kyoto's geisha.