A trip to Japan is not complete without attending at least one festival. There are so many of these events taking place all year round, celebrating everything from the changing of seasons to ancient traditions, that it is likely you can be in Japan at the same time a festival is taking place. Whether it…
Fire symbolizes light, warmth, and purification. In the mountains of Hamamatsu in Shizuoka Prefecture, fires are lit, dances are performed, and prayers are offered. Check out these two fire festivals in the area this December 2017! 1. Kanzanji Fire Festival The Kanzanji Temple holds a fire festival annually on December 15. During the festival, prayers…
As the end of 2016 approaches, there is a wide array of winter illumination events taking place all over Japan. Due to time constraints, it is impossible to visit every single event. However, here is an event that you should not miss this winter as it’s reputed to be the world’s largest flower field of…
Many people who wish to visit Japan want to see the iconic cherry blossom. Sometimes life doesn’t all go to plan and maybe you can’t travel in the main cherry blossom season. Don’t despair, there are still a few spots you can visit for some early blooms and to experience hanami! The Season and Hanami…
In May, when spring is warming up and summer is around the corner, you’ll see many kites being flown in the air in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka. The city is a flat plain with some mountainous and beach areas having strong winds ideal for a kite event popularly known as Takoage-Gassen. This is the…