Koenji Awa Odori: a Must-See Dance Festival in Tokyo
Koenji becomes a huge attraction in the summer when it hosts one of Tokyo’s most popular festivals. The Koenji Awa Odori is a summer dance festival and is held annually during the last weekend in August.
Autumn Beauty of Kagura Mai, Traditional Japanese Ritual Dance
“Kagura” refers to the Shinto theatrical dance dedicated to honor Shinto gods and are known to predate the Noh tradition, therefore, evolving as early as the 14th century. The Kagura Mai dance is perhaps one of the oldest forms of Japanese ritual dance performed in many shrines all over Japan, and consists of several types.
The Obon Festival: How Japanese Honor Their Ancestors
If you are in Japan during the summer, chances are you will happen across a group of people celebrating Obon. It is primarily a time to honor one’s ancestors, but has also become an opportunity to visit relatives and generally relax.
The Dance of the Dead: An Evening at The Butohkan in Kyoto
The Butohkan in Kyoto is one of the few venues where you can see live Butoh performances every week and what you see may shock but also engage you.
Cosquin en Japon – Fukushima's Latin Music and Food Festival
What if I told you that you could find a three-day Latin American festival that runs late into the night with all these things in one place, in the middle of the mountains in Fukushima?
Umeda Yukata Festival 2016
The Umeda Yukata Festival 2016 will be held this weekend (30 and 31 July) in the heart of Umeda.
From Kyoto to Tokyo: The Shinsengumi Festival
The Hino Shinsengumi Festival, usually held the second weekend in May, is a colorful celebration of the history of the Shinsengumi and of traditional Japan in general.
Traditional Japanese Arts in English: Arts Council Tokyo
The 'Traditional Culture and Performing Arts Experience Program for Foreigners’ is a great chance to try different aspects of Japanese culture in a friendly environment, at little or no cost.
Kawaii Monster Cafe
In Tokyo and hungry for a unique place that that serves delicious food but is unique? The Kawaii Monster Cafe is the perfect place to spend lunch or dinner! Located in Harajuku near Takeshi Street, the Kawaii Monster Café is a unique café offering great atmosphere and interesting food.
Sakai Matsuri: Sakai's 1600's Heritage Festival
Sakai Matsuri has taken place during the third week of October, every year since 1974. The main parade is always along Oshoji Symbol Road, and includes performances from Sakai residents of various ages.
Matsumoto Bon Bon Festival
Matsumoto is a large city in Nagano Prefecture, home to the famous Matsumoto Castle, and one of the most popular summer festivals in the region, Matsumoto Bon Bon.
Obon: Dancing With Our Ancestors In Okinawa
Summer in Okinawa is extremely hot! Most locals avoid the mid-day sun and hide from the humidity indoors. However, the island comes alive at night as the sounds of beating drums and the twangs of Sanshin (Okinawan banjo) fill the air. Youth groups spend the evenings practicing Eisa, a traditional dance that they will perform during Obon, the most important festival in Okinawa.