Outline:
Introduction to Japan’s Festival Culture
Major Festivals and Events in 2025-2026
Public Holidays and National Celebrations
Regional Festivals and Unique Traditions
Conclusion and Travel Tips for Festival-Goers
Introduction to Japan’s Festival Culture
When you think of Japan, what comes to mind? Is it the beautiful cherry blossoms, the serenity of Zen gardens, or the high-tech marvels of Tokyo? Japan is a country where ancient traditions and modern culture coexist harmoniously. And one of the best ways to experience Japan’s soul is through its festivals. From fireworks lighting up summer nights to winter illuminations that transform cities into fairy-tale lands, Japan’s festivals are an exciting, colorful, and deeply cultural affair.
Japanese festivals, known as “matsuri”, are celebrated throughout the year, and each one is a unique reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. They range from joyful celebrations of nature’s beauty to deeply spiritual observances. Ready to explore the best festivals, events, and holidays in Japan for 2025 and 2026? Let’s dive in!

Major Festivals and Events in 2025-2026
1. New Year's (Shogatsu) – January 1, 2025 & 2026
New Year’s Day, or Shogatsu, is Japan’s most important holiday. It’s a time when families come together to celebrate, and it’s deeply rooted in tradition. Unlike many countries where New Year's Day is a single celebration, in Japan, the festivities often last for several days, starting from January 1 through the first week of January.
Families decorate their homes with symbols of good luck, enjoy a special meal called osechi-ryori, and visit shrines to pray for a prosperous year. You’ll also find public events like the New Year's Day Parade and the famous Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year.
Shogatsu is the perfect time to experience Japan’s spiritual side and its deep respect for family and tradition. If you’re visiting Japan in January 2025 or 2026, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
2. Setsubun – February 2025 & 2026
Ever wondered how Japan celebrates the arrival of spring? Setsubun is the answer! Held every year on February 3, this festival marks the end of winter and the start of spring according to the Japanese lunar calendar. The most iconic part of Setsubun is the mamemaki (bean-throwing) ceremony.
At temples, shrines, and even at home, people throw roasted beans to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune for the year ahead. There’s also the tradition of wearing masks, especially the demon mask, as people shout, “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi,” meaning “Out with the demons, in with good fortune!”
Setsubun is lively and filled with fun, making it a great event to experience if you're in Japan in early February. Join in the festivities, throw some beans, and maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of a demon or two!
3. Hanami – Late March to Early April 2025 & 2026
One of the most magical times to be in Japan is during hanami season—when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Hanami refers to the practice of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms, typically in late March to early April. Parks, gardens, and streets throughout Japan are blanketed with delicate pink and white flowers.
During this season, people gather for picnics under the blooming trees, enjoying food and drinks with family and friends. The atmosphere is festive and peaceful at the same time, as people take in the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. If you’re planning to visit Japan in 2025 or 2026, make sure to time your trip with the cherry blossom season. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the country transform into a sea of blossoms!
4. Gion Matsuri – July 2025 & 2026 (Kyoto)
If you want to experience one of Japan’s oldest and most famous festivals, the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is the place to be. Held every year throughout July, this festival is a grand celebration of Kyoto’s culture and history, and it dates back to the 9th century. The main event of Gion Matsuri is the Yamaboko Junko, a grand procession of beautifully decorated floats parading through the streets of Kyoto.
The floats are massive and stunning, often requiring dozens of people to pull them through the streets. The festival also includes traditional music, performances, and rituals to honor the spirits of the Gion Shrine, which is believed to ward off disease.
Whether you’re watching the parade or participating in the festivities, Gion Matsuri is a must-see if you’re in Japan in July. The energy, history, and beauty of the festival will stay with you long after you leave Kyoto.
5. Obon – August 2025 & 2026
Obon is a Buddhist festival celebrated to honor the spirits of ancestors. It typically takes place in August and is a time for families to reunite, visit graves, and participate in religious rituals. The festival is celebrated in various ways across Japan, but some common traditions include Bon Odori dances, where people gather to dance in a circle in honor of the spirits.
In the evening, lanterns are lit and released into rivers, guiding the spirits of the departed back to the afterlife. Obon is a time of remembrance, reflection, and celebration of life. It’s an important cultural event, especially in rural areas where local festivals and dances are held.
If you’re visiting Japan in August, you may find yourself caught up in the joyful yet solemn atmosphere of Obon, which is a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the living and the dead in Japanese culture.
Public Holidays and National Celebrations
1. Golden Week – Late April to Early May 2025 & 2026
Golden Week is one of the most anticipated times of the year for the Japanese people, and it occurs from April 29 to May 5. This period includes several national holidays, including Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, and Children’s Day. Many Japanese people take extended vacations during this time, so it’s a time of travel, relaxation, and family gatherings.
Expect crowded streets, bustling tourist spots, and special events like fireworks displays and parades. It’s an exciting time to be in Japan if you want to experience the energy of the country, but it can also mean long lines and busy tourist destinations.
2. Tanabata – July 7, 2025 & 2026
Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, celebrates the romantic legend of two stars, Orihime (the Weaver Star) and Hikoboshi (the Cowherd Star), who are allowed to meet once a year on July 7. The celebration involves writing wishes on colorful pieces of paper and hanging them on bamboo trees, hoping that the stars will grant them.
Tanabata is a lighthearted and visually stunning event, especially if you visit places where people hang thousands of wishes. Major cities like Sendai and Tokyo host festivals and parades, making it a fantastic event to witness during the summer.
3. Respect Your Elders Day (Keiro no Hi) – September 15, 2025 & 2026
Celebrated on the third Monday in September, Respect Your Elders Day is a national holiday in Japan that honors the elderly and their contributions to society. During this day, families often gather to show appreciation and respect for older generations, and communities host events celebrating the wisdom and achievements of seniors.
This holiday is a time for reflection on the importance of family, respect, and the passing down of traditions from one generation to the next. If you're in Japan in September, you might be lucky enough to witness some of these heartwarming ceremonies and gatherings.
Regional Festivals and Unique Traditions
1. Sapporo Snow Festival – February 2025 & 2026 (Sapporo)
If you love winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival is the place to be! Held every February in Sapporo, this festival showcases massive snow and ice sculptures, some of which are intricate and lifelike. Visitors from all over the world come to see the snow art, enjoy winter sports, and participate in various winter activities.
The festival runs for several days and includes music performances, food stalls, and even a snowman contest. It’s a unique way to experience Japan’s winter wonderland, and if you’re visiting in February, be sure to check it out!
2. Awa Odori – August 2025 & 2026 (Tokushima)
The Awa Odori is a lively traditional dance festival held in Tokushima on the island of Shikoku every August. This festival is famous for its energetic, quirky dance moves, and it attracts both locals and tourists to join in the fun. Dancers and spectators often shout the festival chant, “Yā, yā, yā!” and join together in celebration.
The vibrant energy and joyful atmosphere make Awa Odori a must-visit if you want to experience Japan’s folk traditions in full swing.
Conclusion and Travel Tips for Festival-Goers
Japan’s festivals are a brilliant way to experience the country’s culture, spirituality, and hospitality. Whether you're marveling at cherry blossoms during hanami, honoring ancestors at Obon, or dancing through the streets at Gion Matsuri, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time.
When planning your trip, be sure to book accommodations early, as festivals like Golden Week and Obon draw large crowds. If you're new to Japan's festivals, don’t be shy—join in the fun, try the local food, and immerse yourself in the traditions.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Japan for festivals?
The best times are spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms and summer (July-August) for lively festivals like Gion Matsuri and Tanabata.
2. Are Japanese festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Most festivals, like Setsubun and Obon, are family-friendly and provide fun activities for all ages.
3. Do I need to wear anything special for Japanese festivals?
It’s common to wear traditional yukata (summer kimono) for festivals like Gion Matsuri and Obon. However, casual clothes are fine for most festivals.
4. Can I participate in a Japanese festival?
Absolutely! Many festivals encourage visitors to join in, whether it’s by dancing, throwing beans at Setsubun, or writing wishes for Tanabata.
5. How can I find out about local festivals during my trip?
Check local event calendars or ask your hotel concierge for the dates and times of festivals during your visit!