Plan around the season.
Find recurring festivals and seasonal events by month, then confirm this year's details with the official source.
August
Aomori Nebuta Festival
02 Aomori
A summer festival where illuminated Nebuta floats move through the streets of Aomori.
July
Gion Matsuri
26 Kyoto
A month of traditional ceremonies and float processions in Kyoto each July.
August
Kochi Yosakoi Festival
39 Kochi
A lively Kochi summer festival where dancers fill the streets with naruko clappers.
October
Nagasaki Kunchi
42 Nagasaki
An autumn festival of Suwa Shrine with traditional performances across Nagasaki.
February
Sapporo Snow Festival
01 Hokkaido
A winter festival of snow sculptures and city walks in Sapporo.
April · October
Takayama Festival
21 Gifu
A Hida festival of ornate floats and streetscapes in spring and autumn.