When summer comes to Japan, you can tell by the start of the rainy season and rising temperatures. But with more rain means the start of the blooming season for many flowers, and in Bunkyo city in Tokyo, the blooming season of hydrangea flowers is celebrated with the Hydrangea Festival, Ajisai Matsuri. This festival is…

Summer is the season of fireworks, air conditioners, and shaved ice. With the hot, humid, and heavy rainy season comes some of Japan’s best festivals often involving fire or floating shrines. Along with the downpour and the crazy celebrations comes some amazing flowers. Cherry blossom season has already come and gone, but you will be…