8/21/2026 · 8 min read · tips
Plan a smoother Japan group trip during Obon with practical advice on bus availability, vehicle sizes, estimated costs, and alternative travel dates.
8/8/2026 · 8 min read · events
Year-round major matsuri guide: Kyoto Gion in July, Aomori Nebuta in August, Awa Odori, Kanda Matsuri, and Sapporo Yuki Matsuri, plus expert festival tips.
5/4/2026 · 2 min read · events
The Aomori Nebuta Festival, held annually in early August in Aomori City, is one of Japan's most iconic summer festivals. Giant Nebuta lanterns parade through the streets, and the energetic dancing of the Haneto dancers captivates spectators. This article introduces the festival's highlights and unique ways to participate as a Haneto dancer.
5/4/2026 · 2 min read · events
Awa Odori, a summer tradition that colors Tokushima. We provide practical information to deepen your Awa Odori experience in Tokushima, from the highlights of this historic festival and the charm of its unique 'ren' (dance groups) to how tourists can participate in the dance and enjoy themselves.
5/4/2026 · 2 min read · events
The Takayama Festival, held in Hida Takayama in spring and autumn, is counted as one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals. It's full of highlights, including lavishly decorated floats, karakuri puppet performances, and the magical beauty of the evening festival. We'll deeply introduce the charm of the Takayama Festival, where you can experience Japan's traditional culture and the region's appeal.
5/4/2026 · 2 min read · events
Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka's representative summer festival. Highlights of this historic festival, which has continued for over a thousand years, are the glamorous Rikutogyo (land procession), the Funatogyo (boat procession) illuminating the Okawa River, and the dedication fireworks that light up the night sky. We introduce the charm of this magnificent festival, where you can experience Osaka's summer with all five senses.
4/20/2026 · 6 min read · events
A complete guide to the Akita Kanto Festival 2026, one of Tohoku's Three Great Festivals, held annually from August 3-6 in Akita City, Akita Prefecture. Detailed explanations of the exquisite skill of balancing approximately 230 giant Kanto poles on the forehead, waist, and shoulders, viewing spots, paid seating, and access.
4/16/2026 · 5 min read · events
Your complete guide to the Aomori Nebuta Festival 2026, one of the Tohoku Sandai Matsuri (Three Great Festivals of Tohoku), held annually from August 2-7 in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture. This guide covers everything from the giant Nebuta floats and how to join as a Haneto dancer, to viewing spots, reserved seating, and access.
4/11/2026 · 7 min read · events
A complete guide to Tokushima Awa Odori 2026, Japan's largest Bon dance held annually from August 12-15 in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture. Detailed information on the six dance venues, paid seating, dance experiences, tourist attractions, and access.
4/11/2026 · 5 min read · events
A complete guide to the 2026 Sendai Tanabata Festival, one of Tohoku’s Three Great Festivals held every year from August 6–8 in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. Learn all about the more than 3000 lavish bamboo decorations, the fireworks on the eve of the festival, viewing spots, access, and tips for avoiding crowds.
4/8/2026 · 8 min read · seasonal
From cherry blossom picnics to the Buddhist flower festival – your complete guide to Japan's flower festivals, timed perfectly so you catch peak bloom and dodge the crowds.
2/14/2026 · 4 min read · events
A complete guide to the 2026 Gion Festival, one of Japan's three major festivals, held annually in Kyoto from July 1-31. Covers the Saki-matsuri and Ato-matsuri yamahoko processions, how to enjoy Yoiyama, reserved viewing seats, access, and tips for avoiding the crowds.
First-timers: Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka Golden Route for 7 days. Been before? Try Hokkaido in winter or Okinawa in summer — totally different vibes.
Read more →Tokyo blooms ~5 days before Kyoto. Safest play: Tokyo in early April, then head south to Kyoto the second week for late bloomers at Arashiyama.
Read more →February for Sapporo Snow Festival + Abashiri drift ice. July for Furano lavender + Biei green fields. Skip May — still cold, low scenery payoff.
Read more →2 days is plenty (Dotonbori, USJ, Osaka Castle). Better yet, use Osaka as a base for Kyoto/Nara/Kobe daytrips — hotels ~30% cheaper than Kyoto.
Read more →