The Japanese archipelago, for the most part, belongs to the temperate zone and its climate is charaterized by four distinct seasonal changes. This climatic feature has long been a great source of enjoyment. Above all, the festivals of Japan may well be one of the country’s greatest sources of enjoyment. Festivals take place virtually every day throughout the year, somewhere in Japan. Listed here are only some examples of major Japanese festivals from a list that is almost uncountable.
SPRING-The plum and cherry trees burst into bloom
From the first days of March, when flowering plum blossoms debut, to the last days of May, when the last flowering cherry blossoms fall from the trees of northern Japan, spring is a time for rebirth in the name of nature and human celebration throught the land.
Springtime in Japan literally means flowers, in a stunning rainbow panoply of varieties and shapes. Particularly plentiful are blossoms of camellia, iris, lotus and mustard. Numerous flower festivals are everywhere.
Festivals and Events
March 1-14 Omizutori or Water-Drawing Festival of Todaiji Temple, Nara. A solemn rite performed in the flickering light of pine torches reaches its peak on the night of the 12th.
March 3 Hina Matsuri or Doll Festivals throughout the country. Festivals for girls celebrated at home by decorating and displaying miniature dolls.
March 13 Kasuga Matsuri (Festival) of Kasuga Shrine in Nara stages a 1,000-year-old classic dance.
Mid-March (for 15 days) Second Sumo Tournament, Osaka
April 1-30 Miyako Odori or Cherry Dance, Kyoto. Japanese dances presented by “Maiko” apprentice entertainers.
April 8 Hana Matsuri or Floral Festivals in all Buddhist temples, in commemoration of Buddha’s birthday.
April 14-15 Takayama Matsuri of Hie Shrine in Takayama, with a parade of gorgeous floats.
April 16-17 Yayoi Matsuri of Futarasan Shrine in Nikko, featuring a parade of legendary gods on horseback.
May 3-4 Hakata Dontaku in Fukuoka features a parade of legendary gods on horseback.
May 3-5 Kite Battles, in Hamamatsu. Competitors fly huge kites to try and cut strings of their opponents’ kites.
May 5 Children’s Day throughout the Country. Noted for colorful flying carps streamers rippling in the spring wind.
May 11 Cormorant fishing on the Nagara River, Gifu. (Until October 15)
May 15 Aoi Matsuri or Hollyhock Festival in Kyoto features a magnificent pageant.
Mid-May (for 15 days) Third Sumo Tournament, Tokyo
Mid-May Kanda Matsuri of Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo (held every odd-year). Dozens of Mikoshi portable shrines are one parade.
May 17-18 Grand Festival of Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Highlighted by a spectacular procession ofb over 1,000 armor-clad men.
3rd Sun.of May Mifune Matsuri on the Oi River, Kyoto, featuring a parade of ancient boats.
3rd Sun. previous Fri. & Sat.of May Sanja Matsuri Festival of Asakusa Shrine, featuring a para,de of 3 large portable shrines and more than 100 smaller ones.
