The Sanno Matsuri, also called Sanno Festival, is one of the largest Shinto festivals in Tokyo, alongside Fukagawa Matsuri and Kanda Matsuri. This festival takes place every year in mid-June. But the main parade, called jinkosai or Shinkosai, takes place every two years in mid-June, only in odd years. The main parade: jinkosai or Shinkosai …
Koromogae is an ancient Japanese ritual practice of changing seasonal clothes. It is usually performed twice a year, in spring and fall, to celebrate the start of each season. This practice is seen as a way to purify the soul and renew the mind in preparation for the upcoming seasonal changes. Koromogae is a highly respected ritual in Japan and is often associated with other spiritual and religious practices, such as
Midori no Hi, also known as Green Earth Day, is an annual celebration in Japan that takes place on May 4. This day is dedicated to promoting nature and the environment. It encourages the protection of our precious resources. The Origin of the Midori no Hi Celebration The history of Midori no Hi dates back …
May 3 is a special date in Japan. It marks Constitutional Day, also known as Kenpo Kinenbi. This day commemorates the entry into force of the Japanese Constitution of 1947. It is a crucial historical event that occurred after World War II. The 1947 Constitution was a milestone in Japanese history. Indeed, it established the …
Kenpo Kinenbi: Celebrating Constitutional Day in Japan Read More »
Hanami, a traditional custom of Japan, has its roots in the Nara period. It is a practice of admiring the fleeting beauty of flowers in full bloom. This custom is practiced during spring, mainly with the famous cherry blossoms, called Sakura. Hanami also includes the appreciation of apricot flowers (Ume), which bloom earlier, as well …
Omizutori (お水取り) or the Torch Festival is a Buddhist religious rite. It is celebrated every year in the Nigatsu-do of the Todai-ji temple, in Nara, Japan. It is considered one of the oldest and most important religious events in the country, dating back over a thousand years. The event takes place during the month of …
Hina Matsuri is a holiday celebrated in Japan every year on March 3. It is also called the “Doll Festival”. Why this name? Due to the tradition of displaying porcelain dolls called hina-ningyō. This holiday is celebrated to honor young girls and wish them a happy and prosperous life. The tradition of Hina Matsuri dates …
In Japan, Setsubun is a traditional festival celebrated on February 3. It marks the transition from winter to spring according to the ancient agricultural lunar calendar of Chinese origin. This festivity has deep meaning. Indeed, it combines ancestral rituals, symbols and community spirit. Historical Origins of the Setsubun Festival The origin of Setsubun dates back …
Setsubun and mame-maki, the national spring festival in Japan Read More »
Christmas is a festive time for many cultures around the world, and Japan is no exception. Although the country is not traditionally Christian, the celebration of Christmas has become increasingly popular over the years, with a mixed influence of Japanese and Western culture. In this article, we will explore how the Japanese celebrate Christmas, what …
At the heart of Japanese culture lies a period imbued with spirituality and commemoration: the Obon. This annual celebration, also known as the “Day of the Dead”, is a time of reflection, religious rituals and family gatherings. This article delves into the heart of Obon in Japan, exploring its origins, cultural and religious significance, and …
Obon in Japan: Tradition, Meaning and Celebrations Read More »
