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Tokyo Events
Hinode Cherry Blossom Festival
Shioda Farmland Embankment, Hinode, Tokyo
March 29-30, 2025
https://en.japantravel.com/tokyo/hinode-cherry-blossom-festival/70663
The Hinode Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant celebration of spring, held annually along the picturesque Shioda Farmland Embankment. This event showcases the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms as they bloom, creating a stunning backdrop for visitors. The festival features a variety of traditional performances, including taiko drum shows and calligraphy exhibitions, providing a glimpse into Japanese culture. Additionally, attendees can enjoy live music from the U.S. Air Force Pacific Brass Band. Food stalls offer local delicacies and drinks, making it a delightful experience for all ages. The festival also supports local recovery efforts from natural disasters by featuring vendors selling goods to aid affected communities.
AnimeJapan is one of the largest anime conventions in the world, attracting fans and industry professionals alike. Held at Tokyo Big Sight, this event spans multiple days, with the first two days open to the general public and the latter days reserved for industry insiders. Attendees can immerse themselves in the latest anime trends, meet beloved characters from franchises like Gundam, Pokemon, and Dragon Ball, and explore a vast array of merchandise. The convention also features panels with voice actors and creators, providing insights into the anime industry. With activities for families and dedicated areas for cosplayers, AnimeJapan is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese pop culture.
St. Patrick's Day Parade Tokyo 2025
Omotesando Hills
March 15, 2025
https://en.japantravel.com/tokyo/st-patricks-day-parade-tokyo/43665
The St. Patrick's Day Parade in Tokyo is Japan's largest Irish celebration, bringing together locals and expatriates to celebrate Irish culture in style. The parade winds through the streets of Omotesando, transforming the area into a sea of green as participants don festive attire. This lively event includes traditional Irish music, dance performances, and floats that showcase Irish heritage. After the parade, attendees often gather at nearby pubs to enjoy Irish food and drinks while continuing the festivities. The atmosphere is joyous and welcoming, making it an ideal opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture candid moments.
Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) - Spring Edition
Various venues across Tokyo
March 1-10, 2025
https://2024.tiff-jp.net/en/
The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) Spring Edition celebrates cinematic arts by showcasing films from both Japan and around the globe. This festival provides a platform for filmmakers to present their work to an enthusiastic audience while engaging in discussions about film trends and techniques. Screenings are held at various venues throughout Tokyo, making it accessible to film lovers from all walks of life. In addition to feature films, TIFF includes short films and documentaries that highlight diverse storytelling styles. Special events such as Q&A sessions with directors and actors enrich the experience for attendees who wish to delve deeper into the world of cinema.
Kyoto Events
Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival)
Various locations across Kyoto
March 3, 2025
https://www.japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration/hinamatsuri-girls-day/
Hinamatsuri, or Doll Festival, is a cherished tradition in Japan celebrated on March 3rd each year. In Kyoto, this festival involves displaying ornate Hina dolls that symbolize the health and happiness of girls. Various temples and homes showcase these dolls as part of their decorations during this period. Special events occur at locations like Hokyoji Temple where visitors can enjoy traditional music performances alongside doll displays. Families often gather to partake in celebratory meals featuring special rice cakes known as hishi mochi. The atmosphere is filled with joy as people come together to pray for their daughters' well-being.
Nagashibina Ceremony at Shimogamo Shrine
Shimogamo Shrine
March 3, 2025
https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en
The Nagashibina Ceremony at Shimogamo Shrine is a unique cultural event held on Hinamatsuri day where participants float paper dolls down the river to ward off misfortune. This ancient ritual symbolizes purification and is deeply rooted in Kyoto's traditions. Dressed in traditional clothing, participants engage in a solemn procession that captivates onlookers with its beauty and grace. Observing this ceremony offers visitors a chance to connect with Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying the serene environment of Shimogamo Shrine.
The Rain Prayer Festival at Kifune Shrine is an important event that reflects local beliefs about nature's balance and agricultural prosperity. Held throughout March, this festival involves rituals performed by shrine priests who pray for rain to nourish crops as spring approaches. Visitors can participate in various activities such as writing wishes on wooden plaques called ema or joining guided tours that explain the significance of each ritual performed at this historic shrine nestled in the mountains near Kyoto.
Early Spring Cherry Blossom Viewing
Kodaiji Temple & Maruyama Park
Late March 2025
https://www.kodaiji.com/en/
While full cherry blossoms may not yet be in bloom by late March, early varieties begin to appear at iconic spots like Kodaiji Temple and Maruyama Park. This seasonal event draws locals and tourists alike who gather to appreciate the beauty of early blossoms against historic backdrops. Visitors can stroll through gardens adorned with cherry trees while enjoying picnics under the delicate pink petals—a quintessential experience that captures the essence of springtime in Kyoto.
Fukuoka Events
Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival
Maizuru Park, Fukuoka City
March 27 - April 9, 2024
https://gofukuoka.jp/events/detail/63e99758-c44f-4af6-b918-347a7ecd9895
This beloved annual event showcases over 1,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom against the backdrop of historic castle ruins. Visitors can enjoy daytime and nighttime illuminations, creating a magical atmosphere. Special attractions include the "Castle of Illusions," sake tasting booths from the Kyushu Sakagura Biraki event, and a gourmet
food area. A stamp rally offers insights into Fukuoka Castle's history, while street performances by leading artists add to the festive atmosphere. The event also features special open houses of historical buildings on March 30-31, providing a unique glimpse into the castle's past.
Hakata Dontaku Port Festival
Around Fukuoka City
March - May 3-4, 2024
https://gofukuoka.jp/calendar.html
The Hakata Dontaku Festival is one of Fukuoka's largest and most vibrant events. Originating from the Dutch word "Zontag" (Sunday), this festival has evolved into a massive celebration of culture and community. The main parade features thousands of participants in colorful costumes, traditional performances, and floats traversing the city's main streets. Visitors can enjoy various stage performances, food stalls, and interactive events spread throughout the city. The festival's highlight is the appearance of the "Matsubayashi" - traditional float bearers who dance and chant through the streets, creating an electric atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Fukuoka.
Kyushu Events
Kyokusui-no-en at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
First Sunday of March, 2024
https://dazaifu.org/english/event-schedule/
This traditional purification ceremony takes place along a winding stream at the historic Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. Participants dressed in ceremonial court robes perform the ritual under fully blooming plum trees, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of ancient times. The event is deeply rooted in the shrine's history and its connection to Sugawara Michizane, the deity of learning. Visitors can witness this elegant ceremony that combines flowing water, traditional costumes, and the beauty of plum blossoms, offering a unique glimpse into Japanese cultural heritage and the serene atmosphere of early spring in Dazaifu.
