Top 15 Japanese Festivals in December You Must Attend

New Year's Festival Oshougatsu

• Duration: From January 1st to January 3rd annually.
• Location: Nationwide.

Similar to Vietnam, China, and several other Asian countries, Japan historically celebrated the Lunar New Year. However, following the Meiji Restoration in 1873, Japan officially adopted the Gregorian calendar, marking the first day of January as the New Year.

During the Oshougatsu New Year festival, Japanese people often visit temples.

On this day, the Japanese typically create Shimenawa, a rope woven from rice or wheat straw, pine branches, and decorative ornaments, which they hang in front of their homes or sacred spaces to ward off evil spirits and welcome the deity of good fortune. Although the Lunar New Year is no longer officially celebrated in Japan, people still uphold traditional activities such as ancestor and deity worship, visiting temples for the first prayer of the year (Hatsumoude), watching the first sunrise (Hatsuhinode), giving lucky money, and playing traditional games.

The Oshougatsu (Shogatsu) festival, part of the traditional New Year celebrations, remains cherished by the Japanese to welcome Toshigamisama, the deity symbolizing health, luck, and prosperity. On this day, they enjoy traditional dishes such as Ozoni soup, Osechi Ryori, and Kagamimochi rice cakes.

Traditional Ozoni rice cake during the Oshougatsu festival (Image source: @japanesecooking101)

The Oshougatsu New Year festival is typically prepared in every household and celebrated at most temples and shrines across Japan. Visitors participating in Oshougatsu at the start of the year can wear Kimono, modest and formal attire, and visit shrines or temples to pray for good fortune, obtain protective charms, and draw fortunes for a prosperous and smooth year ahead.

Since the New Year follows the Gregorian calendar, most businesses in Japan are closed from January 1st to January 3rd. Travelers attending Japanese festivals during this period should prepare some food in advance to avoid difficulties finding open restaurants.

Nagasaki Lantern Festival - A captivating Japanese festival

• Duration: From February 18th to March 4th.
• Location: Minato Koen, Chuo Koen, Hamaichi Kanko, Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, and other locations in Nagasaki.

Originating from the Chinatown district, this festival has gradually expanded and become one of the most significant and unmissable events in Nagasaki.

The vibrant Nagasaki Lantern Festival (Image source: @hakuchuu1882)

The festival takes place around shopping streets, central parks, and the iconic Megane Bridge, Japan's oldest arched bridge. During this time, Nagasaki becomes more dazzling and lively than ever, with streets adorned by over 15,000 lanterns of various designs. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival not only illuminates the city but also features impressive parades and performances, including lion dances, acrobatics, and mask-changing acts.

If traveling from Nagasaki Airport, visitors can purchase bus tickets and head directly to Shinchi Terminal in the city center. Alternatively, taking the express train to Nagasaki Station and then a bus or taxi to the festival venue, which is just over 1 kilometer away, is another convenient option.

Since the Japanese festival takes place during the winter season, visitors are advised to dress warmly to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities.

Sapporo Snow Festival

• Duration: Held during the second week of February annually and lasts for 7 days.
• Location: Odori Park, Tsudome Site, and Susukino Area in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido in northern Japan, offers a true winter experience with snow and ice covering the landscape. This region is renowned for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice sculpting.

This event is one of Japan's most famous celebrations and ranks among the top three winter festivals globally. Originating in 1950 when local students built snow statues in Odori Park, it has since evolved into a grand spectacle featuring massive ice sculptures that attract visitors from around the world.

Sapporo Snow Festival featuring massive ice sculptures (Image source: @japancheapo)

The Sapporo Snow Festival is held across three venues, each offering unique exhibitions and activities, including:

Odori Park

The main area showcases enormous ice sculptures spanning up to 400 meters, alongside activities like ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, and savoring Hokkaido's delicious hot cuisine.

To reach this location, visitors can walk for 10-20 minutes from JR Sapporo Station, following the west exit along the Sapporo Ekimae-dori underground walkway and exiting at number 5.

Tsudome Site

The second-largest venue of the Sapporo Snow Festival, this area is ideal for families visiting Japan, offering activities for all ages. It features amenities, a children's play area, and Sapporo specialty restaurants serving hot dishes like lamb, Sapporo ramen, and Zangi fried chicken.

From JR Sapporo Station, take the Toho Line and get off at Sakae Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes and exit at number 2.

Susukino Area

The third venue, located near Odori Park, is renowned for its bars, drinking areas, and local specialty beverages. Visitors can freely climb on ice sculptures and take photos at the illuminated Illumination Street.

From Sapporo Station, take the Namboku Line to Susukino Station, then walk up via exit 3 to reach the festival area directly.

Illumination Street at the Sapporo Snow Festival (Image source: @hokkaido_jalan)

When attending Japanese winter festivals, especially the Sapporo Snow Festival, visitors should prepare warm clothing, wool hats, scarves, and waterproof gloves. Since the festival is held outdoors and involves activities in snowy conditions, staying warm is essential to fully enjoy the event with family and friends.

Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival - A Spring Japanese Festival

• Duration: From March to May annually.
• Location: Nationwide.

The Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival takes place during the cool, sunny days of spring. In Japanese, Hanami combines 'Hana' (flower) and 'mi' (viewing), symbolizing the act of appreciating flowers.

Hanami typically occurs from March to May each year, with no fixed location. The festival officially begins when the first cherry blossom tree at Yasakuni Shrine blooms. Here are some popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan:

• Tokyo: Yasukuni Shrine, Meguro River, Kyunaka River, Ueno Park…
• Osaka: Okawa River, Osaka Castle, Osaka-jo Park, Hirakata…
• Kyoto: Daigoji Temple, Hirano Shrine, Kamogawa River, Nijo Castle…

Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival at Okawa (Image source: @retarophotography)

During this festival, locals and visitors often gather for picnics under cherry blossom trees, enjoying traditional dishes like sushi, bento, and hanamizake (sake). Depending on the location, participants can choose to walk or take a boat ride to admire the cherry blossoms lining the riverbanks.

In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival attracts large crowds. To avoid price hikes and fully booked accommodations, visitors are advised to book tickets and hotels 2-3 months in advance. Additionally, it is strictly forbidden to pick flowers or break branches, as cherry blossoms are deeply respected in Japan.

Koinobori Matsuri (Carp Streamer Festival)

• Duration: Annually on May 5th.
• Location: Nationwide.

In Japanese, 'Koi' means carp, and 'nobori' symbolizes the image of a fish swimming upstream, inspired by the legend of a carp transforming into a dragon. During the Koinobori Matsuri, carp-shaped streamers represent healthy boys in Japan, flying in the blue sky as a prayer from parents for their sons' bright futures.

Koinobori Matsuri (Carp Streamer Festival) in Japan (Image source: @tokyoartsandculture)

The Koinobori Matsuri takes place over two months, from late March to mid-May, originating in Kanna Town, Gunma Prefecture. Celebrating Boys' Day, families with sons hang carp-shaped lanterns at their gates, with the number corresponding to the number of boys. Each color holds symbolic meaning: black represents life, red symbolizes wisdom, and blue signifies growth.

In addition to hanging streamers, Japanese families bathe their sons with Shobu (iris) leaves, which not only have health benefits but also symbolize warding off evil spirits and ensuring a peaceful life for the children.

Participating in this Japanese festival offers visitors the chance to enjoy Mochi cakes, unique Obento shaped like fish, join carp streamer-making contests, release carp lanterns into rivers, and make wishes.

Here are some recommended locations to experience the Koinobori Matsuri:

• Tokyo Tower, Tokyo.
• Niyodogawa River, Kochi.
• Niyodogawa Bridge, Kochi.
• Tsuruudagawa River, Gunma.
• Tsuruudagawa River, Tatebayashi, Gunma.
• Kanna Town, Gunma.

This period marks the start of Japanese summer festivals, so visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring umbrellas or hats for outdoor activities.

Yamagata Cherry Festival

• Duration: Annually in June.
• Location: Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan.

Unlike the Hanami flower-viewing tradition, the Yamagata Cherry Festival is a fruit-picking event where visitors can harvest sweet cherries in the Yamagata region. Participation costs between 1,000 to 3,000 JPY (170,000 to 500,000 VND) for a 30 to 60-minute session, allowing guests to enjoy freshly picked cherries. In addition to sightseeing and photography, visitors receive guidance on picking techniques and identifying ripe cherries.

Yamagata Cherry Festival featuring ripe, juicy cherries (Image source: @hk_willie)

Here are some locations where visitors can fully experience the Yamagata Cherry Festival:

Sagae

Known as the cherry capital of Japan, Sagae City attracts visitors to its festival starting around the second week of June. Beyond cherry picking, guests can enjoy cherry-based products like cherry-infused wine, cherry ice cream, and cherry jam.

Tendo

Another renowned fruit-growing region in Yamagata, Tendo offers memorable cherry-picking experiences. The town also sells various cherry-based products, including jam, jelly, cakes, and juice, perfect for tasting or taking home as souvenirs.

In addition to participating in the cherry festival, visitors can explore a completely new side of Yamagata by soaking in the hot springs of Zao Onsen, touring the historic Kaminoyama Castle and Samurai residences, and savoring local delicacies like Imoni soup, Konnyaku, and Soba noodles.

Kaminoyama Castle in Yamagata Prefecture (Image source: @nguyenduykhanh)

Yamagata is a prefecture located on Honshu Island, approximately 400km from Tokyo. Travelers can choose from various transportation options, including planes, trains, and high-speed rail. The Shinkansen bullet train is a popular choice due to its reasonable cost and travel time. From Tokyo, it takes nearly 3 hours to reach Oishida Station via the JR Yamagata Shinkansen, with tickets priced at 12,000 JPY (2,000,000 VND).

Sumida River Fireworks Festival - A Japanese Summer Festival

• Duration: Last Saturday of July.
• Location: Sumida River, Tokyo, Japan.

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival, also known as Sumidagawa Fireworks, is one of Japan's oldest fireworks festivals and a significant part of summer celebrations. Originating in the 18th century, it was held to pray for an end to famine, disease, and to honor the spirits of the deceased.

Today, the festival is held along the Sumida River, featuring a variety of fireworks shaped like cherry blossoms, the Skytree Tower, Pokemon, and more. Locals and tourists gather to secure prime viewing spots, enjoy picnics, and set up camps near the riverbank.

Japanese Summer Festival - Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Image source: @tetsushin634)

To reach the festival venue, visitors can take the train to Asakusa Station, Tobu Asakusa Station, or Kuramae Station, then walk for 5 to 15 minutes to the fireworks viewing area.

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival attracts large crowds annually. To secure a good viewing spot for the spectacular displays, arrive early. Wear comfortable clothing due to the summer heat, and note that many Japanese attendees wear Yukata, a simplified version of the Kimono with fewer layers, suitable for hot weather.

Gion Festival - A Japanese Cultural Celebration

• Duration: July 1st to July 31st annually.
• Location: Kyoto, Japan.

The Gion Festival (Gion Matsuri) is Japan's largest traditional festival, held in the ancient capital of Kyoto. It symbolizes prayers for the city's peace and prosperity, fosters community bonds, preserves cultural heritage, and promotes economic and social development.

This festival features grand parades along Shijo, Kawaramachi, and Oike streets in central Kyoto, with key activities including:

• Yamaboko and Hoko Floats Parade: Giant, elaborately decorated floats moving through the streets.
• Traditional Arts: Performances of puppetry, traditional singing, and dancing.
• Traditional Cuisine: Enjoying authentic Japanese dishes and specialties.
• Lantern Floating: Releasing lanterns on the Kamo River for luck and peace.
• Folk Games: Participating in kite flying, tug-of-war, and sumo wrestling.

Yamaboko Float Parade at the Gion Festival in Kyoto (Image source: @xevicollado)

To join this Japanese summer festival, visitors can follow the routes of the massive Yamaboko floats. For example, the main Shijo Doori area can be accessed from Kawaramachi Station to Karasuma Station. Kawaramachi Doori stretches from Kawaramachi Station to Kyoto Shiyakusho Station, and Oike Doori runs from Kyoto Shiyakusho Station to Karasuma Oike Doori Station.

The streets of the Gion Festival are adorned with vibrant lanterns (Image source: @noriko)

Here are three important tips for attending the Gion Festival in Kyoto:

• First, the festival takes place during the summer, which is also the rainy season. Bring an umbrella to prepare for sudden rain showers.
• Second, the Gion Festival spans multiple streets on a large scale. Public restrooms are scarce, so visitors can use facilities in convenience stores or train stations before entering the festival area.
• Third, the festival features numerous traditional stalls and souvenir shops. Carry cash, including small denominations, for convenient purchases.

Obon Festival - A Traditional Japanese Celebration

• Duration and Location:

July Obon Festival (Shichigatsu Bon): July 13-15 in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Tohoku.

August Obon Festival (Hatchigatsu Bon): August 13-15 in Kyoto and many other regions.

Similar to Vietnam's Vu Lan Festival, Japan also has a day to honor ancestors. In Japanese culture, Obon is a major Buddhist festival held annually to express gratitude to ancestors, pay respect to the departed, and welcome their spirits back home.

The festival is divided into two main parts: Mukaebo (Welcoming the Spirits) and Okuribon (Sending Off the Spirits). The timing varies based on local customs. During this time, family members return home to reunite with loved ones, visit ancestral graves, and honor their heritage.

During the grand Obon Festival in Kyoto, visitors can witness the ceremonial lighting of kanji characters on five surrounding mountains, join traditional dances like Daimoku and Sashi, participate in the Bon Odori folk dance, and take part in the Toro Nagashi ritual, where paper lanterns are floated to guide ancestral spirits back to the afterlife.

Toro Nagashi Ritual at the Japanese Obon Festival (Image source: @kitsunekun)

Due to increased travel during the Obon Festival, traffic congestion is common. Visitors are advised to use public transportation like trains and book tickets early to fully experience this unique Japanese festival.

Hanagasa Matsuri - The Flower Hat Festival

• Duration: August 5th to 7th annually.
• Location: Yamagata, Japan.

As one of the five major summer festivals in Japan's Tohoku region, the Hanagasa Matsuri showcases Yamagata's iconic flower hats, handcrafted from straw and adorned with safflowers (benibana). During the festival, dancers proudly perform the Hanagasa dance, featuring creative movements and spins with the flower hats.

Yamagata is approximately 400km from central Tokyo. Visitors can choose from the following transportation options:

• Plane: Economy class tickets on Japan Airlines start from 2,300,000 VND.
• Bullet Train: JR East Shinkansen tickets start from 2,000,000 VND.
• Train: Japan Rail Pass starts from 1,400,000 VND.

Hanagasa Flower Hat Festival in Yamagata (Image source: @vietair)

In addition to exploring the festival, visitors can join dance workshops at the plaza to learn the techniques and freely participate in the street parade during the Yamagata Hanagasa Flower Hat Festival.

Kangensai Music Festival

• Duration: Annually in August.
• Location: Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima.

Originating in the 12th century, Kangensai began when nobles enjoyed boat rides accompanied by live music. In Japanese, Kangen refers to music performed using nine instruments: three stringed, three percussion, and three wind instruments. Today, the Kangensai Festival recreates these unique historical melodies and dances.

The Kangensai Music Festival takes place on Miyajima Island in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima, every August, featuring a variety of artistic performances. Decorated boats parade on the sea, accompanied by three smaller boats adorned with lanterns, creating a spectacular floating stage.

During the Kangensai Festival, locals perform rituals dedicated to the deity of Itsukishima Shrine. This Shinto ceremony begins in the afternoon and lasts until midnight, with participants marching through the Torii gate before boarding the boats.

To reach Miyajima, visitors must travel to Miyajimaguchi Station, then walk 3 minutes to the ferry terminal. Ferry tickets cost approximately 180 JPY (30,000 VND) for adults and 90 JPY (15,000 VND) for children. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes in favorable weather.

Torii Gate and the Kangensai Music Festival Venue (Image source: @bontraveler)

In addition to the parade and stage boats, numerous other boats and designated spots are reserved for guests, locals, and visitors, all situated on the water. Attendees of the Kangensai Music Festival should queue carefully and move cautiously to avoid potential hazards.

If you are passionate about cultural festivals and traditional music, don't miss Kangensai, one of the most anticipated events in Japan's summer festival lineup.

Owara Kaze no Bon Festival

• Duration: September 1st to 3rd annually.
• Location: Yatsuo, Toyama, Japan.

Originating from farmers' prayers for favorable weather and protection from natural disasters, the Owara Kaze no Bon Festival was born in Yatsuo Town, south of Toyama City.

At the Owara Kaze no Bon Festival, dancers wear vibrant costumes and parade through the historic wooden streets of the town, performing from afternoon until nightfall.

The unique charm of the Owara Kaze no Bon Festival lies in its uniformity, from the traditional Kimono attire and folded straw hats to the distinctive dance moves. Additionally, the parade is accompanied by soulful melodies played on the shamisen and taiko drums.

Owara Kaze no Bon Festival featuring its iconic straw hats, image source @personalizedservices

This traditional Japanese festival is held in central Yatsuo, with free shuttle buses available from Toyama Station to Etchu Yatsuo Station. From there, visitors can take a 12-minute bus ride to the town center and festival venue.

During this time, visitors to the Owara Kaze no Bon Festival can wear loose, comfortable clothing suitable for autumn weather. Consider trying Yukata, a lightweight and simplified version of the Kimono, which is cooler and easier to move in.

Kawagoe Festival - A Japanese Autumn Festival

• Duration: Saturday and Sunday during the third week of October annually.
• Location: Saitama, Japan.

If you're looking for a lively Japanese autumn festival with unique food stalls, don't miss the Kawagoe Festival in Saitama. During this event, the city is filled with brightly decorated Dashi floats, topped with intricate doll models, parading through the town.

Kawagoe Japanese Festival (Image source: @kawagoe_hikawa)

The Kawagoe Festival is deeply rooted in the historical backdrop of the Edo period. One of its highlights is the Hikkawase event, where two floats pass each other, sparking a lively musical competition set to energetic tunes.

For many visitors, the charm of the Kawagoe Festival lies in its ability to transport them back in time as they stroll through streets lined with historic architecture. Additionally, the festival features numerous food stalls, serving both festival-goers and showcasing the town's reputation as the birthplace of traditional Japanese sweets and confectionery.

Kawagoe's Old Town with its iconic historic architecture (Image source: @makabe1500)

To reach the Kawagoe Festival venue, visitors can take a high-speed train or regular train. The Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro Station in Tokyo is the most efficient option, taking about 30 minutes with a fare of 463 JPY (approximately 80,000 VND). From Kawagoe Station, it's just a 5-minute walk to the festival site.

Fujiwara Autumn Festival

• Duration: Early November annually, from November 1st to 3rd.
• Location: Hiraizumi, Iwate, Japan.

The Fujiwara Autumn Festival honors the Fujiwara lords at the Golden Pavilion, with events held both at the palace and Chusonji Temple.

The main ceremony includes a parade of children in Kimono, singers, and monks entering the palace on November 1st. On November 3rd, traditional Noh theater performances take place on Chusonji Temple's outdoor stage, alongside folk arts like Kagura and Shishi-Odori dances. All events unfold under the vibrant autumn foliage of Hiraizumi.

Chusonji Temple, one of the venues for the Fujiwara Festival (Image source: @chinaairlines)

Beyond the main events, the Fujiwara Autumn Festival offers visitors the chance to explore Chusonji Temple's main hall, participate in chrysanthemum offerings, receive blessed flowers, and enjoy traditional dances preserved since the Heian period.

To attend the Fujiwara Festival, visitors can travel to Hiraizumi Station and then use public transport like buses, taxis, or walk. A taxi ride takes about 5 minutes to the venue, while buses take 10 minutes, and walking takes around 30 minutes.

The Fujiwara Autumn Festival coincides with Japan's chrysanthemum season from October to November. Be sure to charge your cameras, as the stunning combination of autumn foliage and vibrant chrysanthemums will leave anyone in awe.

Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri Festival

• Duration: 4 days from December 15th to 18th annually.
• Location: Nara, Japan.

While many Japanese festivals focus on a specific historical period, the Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri (Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri) offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture across multiple eras.

Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri is one of Japan's oldest festivals, dating back to the 12th century, and is the most ancient festival in the former capital of Nara. Named after the Kasuga Wakamiya Shrine, it was originally held to pray for bountiful harvests and good health.

Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri Festival in Nara (Image source: @laziavava)

At the Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri, visitors can enjoy Kasuga performances, traditional Bugaku dances, and music. The highlight is the Jidai Gyoretsu event, where nearly 500 participants wear historically accurate costumes, showcasing Japanese culture from the Heian period (9th century) to the Edo period (19th century).

To attend this cultural festival, visitors can travel to Kintetsu Nara Station and walk about 20 minutes or take a bus from Nara Station to the final stop, which leads to the festival venue.

On the way to Kasuga Wakamiya Shrine, visitors pass through Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer can be seen. These deer are considered sacred messengers of the shrine's deities in local belief. Visitors can explore the park, take photos with the deer, and enjoy food stalls in the area.

Nara Park near Kasuga Wakamiya Shrine

Japanese festivals take place throughout the year, each with its unique charm. Beyond preserving the nation's rich heritage, these events bring traditional cultural values closer to visitors worldwide.

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