The ultimate guide to Japan travel
Attend traditional festivals, run a marathon, and enjoy the illuminations before ringing in the New Year!
Head to the old capital for the fanciest festive feels in Kansai.
Fire walking, autumn illuminations, the Grand Sumo Tournament — and that's just the start.
The world's biggest tug-of-war, shrine festivals, parades, scary mud monsters and a LOT more!
Late-summer fireworks, manga fairs, the wild Danjiri Festival, and other fun.
Some of Japan's best festivals take place this month — and they're mostly free!
Highlights include the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Tenjin Festival in Osaka — two of Japan's most famous festivals.
Fancy horses, dance festivals, fun with yukata, mud sports — and more.
Giant battling kites, a thousand-samurai march, flower festivals and more!
Plum and cherry blossoms, spring festivals, the Grand Sumo Tournament in Osaka — and more!
Winter wonderlands, oyster festivals, and rituals to chase away demons.
Kick off the new year with fire festivals, water festivals, and even festivals featuring ogres!
Start with the floating shrine — but don't limit yourself to it.
Get ready for Children's Day on May 5, and find out where to find colorful carp streamers called koinobori.
Perfect if you want to see some unusual sights, the festivals of Chubu bring some intensity to an otherwise peaceful and natural setting—ideal for a true adventure into Japan.
Kanto is perfect for exploring when you're based in Tokyo, with opportunities to experience the most modern and most traditional elements of the complex culture.
Join in the battle at the world's biggest tug-of-war in Naha, Okinawa
An island packed with unusual festivals, Kyushu is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique adventure in Japan.
What to do in Iwakuni—a traditional castle town famous for its seasonal beauty in spring and fall, plus its white snakes, sword museum and local specialty sushi.
Everything you need to know about the Osaka leg of Summer Sonic.
August 6th traditionally marked the end of summer. On this day, locals bid farewell to the dangerously hot season at the Yatori-no Shinji Festival.