Festivals are ancient events that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and they strongly reflect the characteristics of each region. In this article, we will introduce a wide range of information, from the history and cultural significance of the festival to how to enjoy and participate, as well as safety measures at the festival.
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What is the festival? Learn about its history and cultural significance

Origin and historical background of the festival

The festival is deeply tied to Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, and is a traditional event that has been going on since ancient times. There are many festivals across Japan for the purpose of praying for a rich harvest, safety at sea, and good health. During the Heian period, large-scale festivals were held mainly by aristocrats and the imperial court, but as time passed, the common people also spread out, and a variety of festivals were born that combined regional customs and performing arts.

Characteristics and cultural values of festivals by region

Throughout Japan, there are many festivals that are unique to each region. For example, Kyoto’s Gion Festival has a history of over 1,000 years and is known for its gorgeous float parade. At the Aomori Nebuta Festival, large lantern dolls are paraded around, and the powerful Nebuta music enlivens the festival. Also, at Akita’s Kanto Festival, the sight of lanterns suspended from large poles and paraded while balancing them is a sight to behold. These festivals symbolize regional pride and identity and play an important role as a tourism resource.

How to enjoy and participate in the festival

Festival highlights and experience points

The highlight of the festival is the traditional events and performances of each region. It is important to check the schedule in advance so as not to miss the events and parades that are the climax of the festival. You can also enjoy the food and games offered by local food stalls and stalls. By tasting local specialties and traditional dishes, you can experience the local culture more deeply.

Preparation and etiquette for participating in the festival

When attending a festival, it is important to prepare in advance. Choose clothes that are easy to move in, shoes that are easy to walk in, and have rain gear ready in case it rains. Also, since there will be a large number of people gathering, it is necessary to manage valuables and prevent children from getting lost. At festival venues, you are expected to abide by local rules and etiquette. Please remember to take your trash home with you and be considerate of other participants.

How to enjoy food and games at festivals

Part of the fun of the festival is the street food and games. You can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods, from standard menus such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and shaved ice to dishes using local specialties. Old-fashioned games such as target shooting and goldfish scooping are also attractive. Through these experiences, everyone from children to adults can have fun together.

Japanese traditional festivals are held in various places, and we will introduce some of the most representative Japanese traditional festivals.

Gion Festival (Kyoto)

• Date: July 1st-31st • Features: One of Japan’s three major festivals, famous for its Yamaboko parade.

Tenjin Festival (Osaka)

• Date: July 24th-25th • Features: Highlights include Funatogyo, a boat trip along the Okawa River, and fireworks at night.

Kanda Festival (Tokyo)

• Date: Mid-May • Features: At the Kanda Myojin Festival, a gorgeous mikoshi parade is held.

Sanja Festival (Tokyo/Asakusa)

• Date: 3rd Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of May • Features: At the Asakusa Shrine festival, many mikoshi are paraded through the town.

Nebuta Festival (Aomori)

• Date: August 2nd-7th • Features: Floats carrying large lantern dolls go around the city.

Awa Odori (Tokushima)

• Date: August 12th-15th • Features: A dance festival held in Tokushima city, where people dance to a unique rhythm.

Snow Festival (Sapporo)

• Date: Early February • Features: Huge snow and ice sculptures will be exhibited throughout Sapporo.

Hakata Dontaku (Fukuoka)

• Date: May 3rd-4th • Features: A parade goes around the city, adding color to Fukuoka’s spring.

Akita Kanto Festival (Akita)

• Dates: August 3rd to 6th • Features: The art of balancing a lantern suspended from a 12-meter-high bamboo pole will be demonstrated.

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (Osaka/Kishiwada)

• Date: Mid-September • Features: Luxurious danjiri (floats) that rush through the city.

Hanagasa Festival (Yamagata)

• Date: August 5th-7th • Features: Dancers carrying flower hats parade through the city.

Nagasaki Kunchi (Nagasaki)

• Dates: October 7th to 9th • Features: This is the regular autumn festival of Suwa Shrine, Nagasaki’s guardian deity, with gorgeous dances and parades.

Yosakoi Festival (Kochi Prefecture)

・August 9th to 12th every year ・Characteristics: The Yosakoi Festival is a relatively new festival that started in 1954, but many teams from around Kochi City participate, and the entire city is engulfed in the excitement of dancing. The dancers wear colorful costumes and dance with props called ”narukos” that make sounds. These festivals are a great opportunity to experience Japan’s traditional culture, and you can experience the characteristics and history of each region. Each festival differs depending on the season and region, so it’s a good idea to check the dates and locations before planning your visit.

Interaction and community formation at festivals

How to deepen interaction with local residents

Festivals are also opportunities for interaction with local residents. By actively communicating with local people, you can learn more about the culture and history of the area. You can also contribute to your local community by participating in local volunteer activities.

Strengthening local communities through festivals

Festivals are important opportunities to strengthen ties within local communities. Participating in the preparation and management of the festival deepens cooperative relationships among residents. In particular, when younger and older generations work together, interaction between generations is also promoted. This strengthens the sense of solidarity throughout the area and creates a better community.

Festival safety measures and trouble avoidance

Safety measures and precautions at festivals

Festivals attract large numbers of people, so safety measures are essential. It is important to check evacuation locations and contact information in advance. Especially if you are bringing children, be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t get lost. It is also important to keep hydrated and take breaks frequently to prevent heatstroke.

What to do in case of trouble

In the unlikely event that a problem occurs, you are required to deal with it calmly. In an emergency, ask for help from people and staff around you and follow their instructions. Also, it is a good idea to write down contact information for ambulances and police in advance. In order to prevent problems from occurring, advance preparation and information gathering are essential.

Items and fashion to enjoy the festival

Clothes and accessories perfect for festivals

Appropriate clothing and accessories are important to enjoy the festival. You can enjoy the festival atmosphere even more by wearing traditional costumes such as yukata and jinbei. It is also important to choose clothing that is easy to move in and comfortable. Don’t forget to bring items to protect you from the heat, such as hats, parasols, and sunglasses.

Useful goods and recommended items that can be used at festivals

Convenient goods will help you spend the festival comfortably. If you bring folding chairs or leisure seats, you can enjoy long viewing sessions and take breaks. Portable fans and cooling towels are recommended as measures against the heat. It’s also a good idea to have a charger and waterproof case for your smartphone.

How to make festival memories and keep records

Tips for taking photos at festivals

Photography is essential to record festival memories. In order to capture the atmosphere of a festival or a scene with movement, it is important to adjust the shutter speed and focus on the moving subject. Also, during the night festival, you can take fantastic photos using the lights and lanterns.

Ideas for preserving festival memories

There are many ways to preserve festival memories, not just photos. Another option is to collect items that remain on hand, such as souvenirs purchased at festivals or food wrappers from street food stalls. Also, by writing down your festival experiences in your diary or blog, you will have more fun looking back on them later.