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Tokyo Events
Miyako Odori, or "The Dance of the Capital," is a traditional performance showcasing the artistry of geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha). This event takes place throughout April and features elegant dance performances accompanied by traditional music. The dances reflect seasonal themes, often depicting nature's beauty in spring. Attendees can experience the grace and skill of these performers in an intimate setting at the Minami-za Theatre. The event not only highlights Kyoto's rich cultural heritage but also offers a glimpse into the life of geiko, making it a must-see for visitors interested in Japanese traditions.
Tokyo International Art Fair
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
April 12-14, 2025
https://www.tokyoartfair.com/
The Tokyo International Art Fair is a vibrant gathering that showcases contemporary art from both local and international artists. This event attracts art lovers, collectors, and creators alike, providing a platform for emerging talents to display their work alongside established artists. Visitors can explore various art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media installations. The fair also hosts workshops and talks led by artists and curators, fostering discussions about current trends in the art world. It’s an excellent opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in Tokyo’s dynamic art scene.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival
Along the Sumida River
April 29, 2025
https://www.sumidagawa-hanabi.com/
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is an iconic event that marks the beginning of summer festivities in Tokyo. This spectacular fireworks display draws thousands of spectators who line the riverbanks to witness breathtaking pyrotechnics lighting up the night sky. The festival features traditional food stalls offering local delicacies, creating a festive atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation. As families gather to enjoy the show, they also partake in traditional activities such as wearing yukata (summer kimono), enhancing the cultural experience. This event is a highlight for both locals and tourists seeking to enjoy Japan's vibrant summer celebrations.
The Tokyo Anime Award Festival celebrates anime culture through screenings, exhibitions, and award ceremonies recognizing outstanding works from around the world. This festival is a haven for anime enthusiasts who can engage with industry professionals through panels and Q&A sessions. The event features various activities such as cosplay contests, workshops on animation techniques, and merchandise stalls showcasing unique collectibles. It serves as both a celebration of anime's impact on global culture and an opportunity for fans to connect with creators and fellow enthusiasts.
Kyoto Events
Kyotographie International Photography Festival
Various venues across Kyoto
April 13 - May 13, 2025
https://www.kyotographie.jp/en/
The Kyotographie International Photography Festival transforms Kyoto into a vibrant gallery space featuring works from renowned photographers worldwide. Spanning multiple venues throughout the city, this festival explores diverse themes through photographic exhibitions that challenge perceptions and provoke thought. The 2025 edition will focus on "Resilience," showcasing how photography captures human strength amid adversity. Visitors can attend artist talks, workshops, and guided tours that deepen their understanding of contemporary photography while appreciating Kyoto's historical backdrop.
Hanami at Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park
Early to mid-April 2025 (exact dates depend on bloom)
https://www.japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration/maruyama-park-hanami/
Hanami at Maruyama Park is one of Kyoto's most cherished traditions during cherry blossom season. As cherry trees bloom in early April, locals gather for picnics beneath their branches to celebrate nature's fleeting beauty. The park becomes alive with laughter as families set up elaborate spreads featuring seasonal delicacies while enjoying live music performances from local artists. As night falls, lanterns illuminate the park creating a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls among the blossoms.
The Inuyama Festival is renowned for its stunning floats adorned with intricate carvings and decorations that parade through the streets of Inuyama City near Kyoto. This festival celebrates spring with lively processions featuring traditional music and dance performances. Visitors can witness the craftsmanship behind each float while enjoying local foods sold at stalls lining the streets. The festival culminates in nighttime illuminations where floats are beautifully lit up against the backdrop of Inuyama Castle.
Kyoto Cultural Heritage Exhibition
Kyoto National Museum
April 1 - April 30, 2025
[Kyoto National Museum] [Kyoto National Museum](https://www.kyotnationalmuseum.go.jp/en/exhibitions)
The annual Kyoto Cultural Heritage Exhibition at the Kyoto National Museum showcases artifacts that highlight Japan's rich history and culture. This exhibition features items ranging from ancient pottery to samurai armor, providing insights into Japan’s artistic evolution over centuries. Special lectures by historians accompany selected displays to deepen understanding of each piece’s significance within Japanese heritage. This event is ideal for history buffs looking to explore Japan's past while enjoying one of its most culturally rich cities.
Fukuoka Events
Fukuoka Phantom Castle
Fukuoka Castle, Maizuru Park, Fukuoka City
Early April 2025
https://japancheapo.com/events/fukuoka-phantom-castle/
The Fukuoka Phantom Castle illumination event transforms the historic Fukuoka Castle ruins into a mesmerizing spectacle of light and color. Visitors can explore the beautifully lit castle grounds, enjoying stunning projections that bring the castle's rich history to life. The event coincides with cherry blossom season, creating a magical atmosphere as illuminated sakura trees add to the enchanting scenery. Interactive light installations and themed areas offer unique photo opportunities, while food stalls serve local delicacies. This captivating blend of history, technology, and natural beauty makes the Fukuoka Phantom Castle a must-see spring attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Various locations in Fukuoka City, including Maizuru Park and Nishi Park
Early April 2025
https://gofukuoka.jp/calendar.html
Celebrating the beauty of cherry blossoms, the Fukuoka Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant and lively event held in the picturesque Maizuru Park. The festival features various activities such as traditional performances, food stalls offering local delicacies, and evening illuminations of the cherry blossoms. Visitors can partake in hanami (flower viewing) picnics under the blooming sakura trees, creating a festive atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie. Workshops on traditional crafts and calligraphy will also be available, providing a cultural experience for attendees. The festival attracts locals and tourists alike, uniting people through the appreciation of nature’s beauty and Japanese cultural heritage.
Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale
Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, 1-6-1 Otemon, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka
April 1-30, 2025
https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/796/​
The Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale is a prominent art exhibition that showcases contemporary Asian art, providing a platform for artists from various countries to display their work. This year’s theme revolves around "Cultural Confluence," emphasizing the interconnectivity and shared narratives of Asian cultures. The exhibition will feature installations, paintings, and multimedia art from over 30 artists across Asia, inviting visitors to explore the rich tapestry of cultural expressions. Guided tours and artist talks will be available, allowing attendees to engage directly with the artists and gain insights into their creative processes. The event aims to foster dialogue and understanding through art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Fukuoka International Film Festival
Toho Cinemas Tenjin, 2-7-1 Tenjin, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka
April 5 - April 12, 2025
https://filmfreeway.com/fukuoka_w_e
The Fukuoka International Film Festival is an annual event that showcases films from around the globe, with a particular focus on Asian cinema. In 2025, the festival will feature a selection of over 100 films, including documentaries, animations, and feature films, providing a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers. Special screenings, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with directors and actors are highlights of the festival, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the films and the filmmaking process. The festival is a celebration of creativity and cultural exchange, making it a significant event in Fukuoka’s cultural calendar.
Fukuoka Food & Wine Festival
Fukuoka Convention Center, 2-1, Takasu 3-chome, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka
April 15 - April 17, 2025
https://gofukuoka.jp/events/detail/a0b48f78-a84f-48df-a35a-669eff96170a
The Fukuoka Food & Wine Festival celebrates the region's culinary heritage and diverse gastronomic offerings. This year, the festival will feature renowned chefs from Japan and abroad, showcasing unique dishes and innovative cooking techniques. Attendees can enjoy tastings, cooking demonstrations, and workshops that highlight local ingredients and traditional methods. The festival also includes a wine pairing section, where visitors can learn about wines that complement Fukuoka's culinary scene. The event serves as a perfect opportunity for food lovers to indulge in a variety of flavors while discovering the cultural significance of food in the region.
Kyushu Events
Kyushu Pro Wrestling 17th Anniversary Event
April 27, 2025
West Japan General Exhibition Center New Hall, Kitakyushu City
https://www.kyushu-pro-wrestling.com/schedule-and-result/post-216756/
Kyushu Pro Wrestling celebrates its 17th anniversary with a grand event showcasing the best of regional professional wrestling. This high-energy spectacle brings together top wrestlers from across Kyushu and beyond for a day of thrilling matches and entertainment. The event is not just about wrestling; it's a cultural celebration that highlights the spirit and passion of Kyushu. Fans can expect a mix of traditional wrestling styles with modern showmanship, creating an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and exciting. The anniversary event often features special guest appearances, commemorative merchandise, and interactive fan experiences. It's an opportunity for wrestling enthusiasts to witness the evolution of Kyushu Pro Wrestling over the past 17 years and to be part of its future. The venue's spacious layout ensures excellent viewing for all attendees, making it a must-attend event for wrestling fans in the region.
Kumamoto Castle Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival)
Kumamoto Castle, 1-1 Honmaru, Kumamoto
April 1 - April 15, 2025
https://www.japan.travel/en/japans-local-treasures/cherry-blossoms-kumamoto-castle-2022/
The Kumamoto Castle Sakura Matsuri is an enchanting event that celebrates the stunning cherry blossoms surrounding one of Japan's most iconic castles. The festival transforms the castle grounds into a breathtaking landscape of pink blossoms, attracting thousands of visitors each year. During the festival, various activities take place, including traditional music and dance performances, local food vendors, and guided tours of the castle. The serene atmosphere invites families and friends to enjoy picnics under the cherry trees, embracing the spirit of hanami. Special evening illuminations create a magical ambiance, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of the sakura at night. This festival not only showcases the natural beauty of the area but also highlights the historical significance of Kumamoto Castle.