Hello everyone living in Japan! When summer arrives in Japan, various традиционный (traditional) festivals, such as firework displays and Bon Odori dances, are held across the country, filling the towns with lively energy. This time, we’ll introduce the charm and ways to enjoy Japan’s traditional summer festivals, which we highly recommend all foreign residents experience!

Why are Japanese Summer Festivals So Special?

Japanese summer festivals are not just a place for веселье (fun). Many festivals hold deep meanings, such as expressing gratitude to local deities, praying for a good harvest, and comforting the spirits of ancestors. The vivid декорации (decorations), the lively музыка (music), and the теплота (warmth) of people’s interactions, as a seasonal tradition of Japanese summer, fascinate all who visit.

This is Japanese Summer! Traditional Festivals You Should Experience

1. Magnificent Floats and Enthusiasm! “Gion Matsuri” (Kyoto Prefecture)

  • Highlights: The 모습 (sight) of the “Yamahoko” floats, adorned with gorgeous decorations, parading through Kyoto City is breathtaking. At night, lanterns are lit, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
  • How to Enjoy: Of course, watching the Yamahoko procession is a must, but enjoying the unique “Kon-chiki-chin” musical accompaniment and strolling through the food stalls are also part of the fun. Participating in a yukata (summer kimono) will further enhance the 분위기 (atmosphere).
  • Dates: July 1st – 31st (Yamahoko procession on the 17th and 24th)
  • Official Website: https://www.gionmatsuri.or.jp/

2. The Fiery Soul of Tohoku! “Aomori Nebuta Matsuri” (Aomori Prefecture)

  • Highlights: This динамичный (dynamic) festival features giant warrior doll “Nebuta” floats parading through the город (city). You’ll be overwhelmed by the calls of “Rassera, Rassera!” and the енергия (energy) of the Haneto dancers.
  • How to Enjoy: In addition to watching the Nebuta parade, you can even participate as a Haneto dancer (preparation of attire in advance is necessary). A fireworks display is also held at night, brilliantly завершение (concluding) the festival.
  • Dates: August 2nd – 7th
  • Official Website: https://www.nebuta.jp/

3. Elegant Floating Lanterns “Shourou Nagashi” (Nagasaki Prefecture)

  • Highlights: This традиционный (traditional) event to mourn the spirits of the deceased involves floating красочные (colorful) lanterns, made by each household, down the море (sea) or rivers. The sound of firecrackers and the свет (light) of the lanterns create a magical scene.
  • How to Enjoy: Quietly observe the lanterns as they drift away and experience the 엄숙 (solemn) atmosphere of remembering the departed.
  • Date: August 15th
  • Reference Information: Nagasaki City Tourism Website

4. Locally Rooted веселье “Bon Odori” (Nationwide)

  • Highlights: On summer nights, много (many) people gather in parks and plazas to dance in a circle in this традиционный (traditional) event. The dances and музыка (music) differ by region, making it a place for местный (local) people to interact.
  • How to Enjoy: Don’t just watch; by all means, join the circle and dance together! Many dances are simple, so anyone can easily participate.
  • Dates: Vary by region (often mid-July to late August)
  • Information Gathering: Check the websites and bulletin boards of your local municipality and shopping streets for information.

Tips for 더욱 즐겁게 (Enjoying Summer Festivals Even More)

  • Try Wearing a Yukata: Yukata is Japan’s traditional summer garment and enhances the festival 분위기 (atmosphere). You can also find rental shops, so definitely give it a try.
  • Savor Street Food: Festivals have a 다양한 (various) array of delicious street food stalls, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and shaved ice. Enjoy eating your way around.
  • Participate Actively: Instead of just watching, try joining the Bon Odori or clapping along to the festival music. This will allow you to experience the festival more глубоко (deeply).
  • Be Mindful of Manners: Some festivals are held in sacred places, so be careful of шум (noise) and make sure to take your trash home.
  • Don’t Forget Heatstroke Prevention: Participating in festivals in the summer heat carries the risk of heatstroke. Stay hydrated and take measures such as wearing a hat.

Come and Experience the Hot Japanese Summer Festivals!

Japan’s traditional summer festivals are filled with красота (beauty), енергия (energy), and the теплота (warmth) of its people. By all means, actively participate and create 잊을 수 없는 (unforgettable) summer memories!