May 2025 Events in Japan

teamLab Nemophila Illumination

An outdoor night museum, with nemophila in the spotlight. This seasonal installation by international art collective teamLab is worth checking out.

Togyo 1,000 Samurai Procession

This procession takes place on the second day of the Nikkō Tōshōgū Shrine Grand Festival.

Sendai Aoba Festival

Every May, as Sendai’s zelkova trees turn green, the Sendai Aoba Festival takes center stage. Rooted in the legacy of the Date clan, this annual event is one of the city’s most significant …

Kōbe Festival

The Kōbe Festival is a citywide festival.

Mifune Festival

Gander at traditional boats floating down the river carrying musicians and performers.

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.

Sakata Festival

See giant lion head floats and unique wheeled floats.

Kamogawa Odori

This is the last of Kyoto's spring geisha dances.

Belgian Beer Weekend Osaka

Swap your usual lager for a Trappist Tripel and sip riverside at Belgian Beer Weekend Osaka — with nearly 100 beers and food to pair.

Fukui Pokémon Fossil Museum

Science and imagination meet in the form of glowing fossils and Pokémon prehistory.

Tenjin-san Shrine Flea Market

Explore the Tenjin-san Flea Market at Kitano Tenman-gū, Kyoto, held on the 25th of every month.

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

See the colorful and vibrant flower fields at the base of Mt. Fuji

Mantō Mitama Festival

As the sun goes down, feast your eyes on thousands of lanterns and a traditional Japanese dance performed by 100 shrine maidens in red and white.

Soma Nomaoi Wild Horse Chasing Festival

A traditional festival showcasing military skills and horseback riding in Fukushima.

Hamamatsu Flying Dragon Festival

Ever wanted to see the mystical dragons of the Nintendo Zelda games come to the life?

Koinobori at Ōboke Gorge

View the iconic koi carp streamers hanging above Yoshino River at Ōboke Gorge.

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.

Lake Hamana Flower Festival 2025

This is a lovely day out for flower enthusiasts.

Jujutsu Kaisen Exhibition Osaka

Curses, high school drama, and seriously good art — the Jujutsu Kaisen exhibition in Osaka pulls you straight into the world of Japan’s breakout dark fantasy series.

National Treasures of Japan Exhibition in Osaka

From stunning Buddhist sculptures to intricate calligraphy, this is your chance to witness 130 designated National Treasures of Japan all in one place.

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.

Osaka Kansai World Expo 2025

What new technologies and innovations will you find at Expo 2025?

Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival

Art for all. Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival brings immersive exhibitions, global artists, and hands-on activities in a family-friendly package.

Gundam Pavillion at Osaka Expo 2025

From a 17-meter RX-78F00/E Gundam statue to an immersive, reservation-only pavilion experience, this exhibit reimagines Gundam’s Universal Century as something within reach.