The best spring festival in Japan

The Japanese Spring Festival ranges from large cherry blossom viewing parties attracting thousands of tourists to intimate local celebrations commemorating ancient gods. Many spring festivals date back centuries, evolving from religious rituals to the colorful community celebrations we see today. What unites them is the Japanese tradition of opening your arms, food and community spirit that welcomes spring. There is no better way to immerse Japanese spring in many vibrant seasonal festivals in the country. This is the best.

Ueno Park Sakura

Must see the Cherry Blossom Festival

Ueno Park Cherry Blossom Festival in Tokyo

Every year, Ueno Park’s 800 trees attract thousands of visitors to its cherry tree-filled lawns and roads. Pink and white Japanese lanterns were tied up from trees, and food stalls across the country sold their goods to keen picnics. During the day, a stage hosts music and entertainment. Happy picnicians continue to party as night falls and return home with their family Yozakuracherry blossoms to watch at night.

When to go: Music festivals usually take place from late March to early April, and food stalls are usually open every day at 9pm. Be aware of the predictions of cherry blossoms, as the festival timing will be consistent with Peak Bloom.

The Giant River in Tokyo

Tokyo Giant River Cherry Blossom Festival

The Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival is famous for its crowds, extending briefly along the four-kilometer-long river. Visitors to the music festival should arrive through the Central Nagor Kameguro Station.

If there is anything that will get you into the spirit of the Japanese cherry blossom season, it is the most popular cherry blossom event in the country. The festival is so popular that the cherry blossom-like river has its own social media accounts, with a total of tens of thousands of followers. Tiktok, Instagram, it’s all on them.

When to go: The event is usually held from mid-March to early April. Check their social media accounts for more details.

Less crowded options: Visit the same river and get off near Osaka Station.

Osaka Castle Park Cherry Blossom Festival, Osaka

If enjoying cherry blossoms against the backdrop of a nearly 500-year-old castle sounds like you’re having tea, Osaka Castle Park is a destination that can’t be missed. The area is a beautiful setting for a cherry blossom picnic. Its castle park even has a barbecue area since late March, perfect for keen audiences who want to grill while enjoying the bloom.

The cheapest amount for adults entering the castle is 600 yen, and children in middle schools and below are free, so you can make a whole day by checking the castle and then relaxing under the pink canopy.

For the latest information on Osaka Cherry Blossoms and its Spring Festival, visit the Osaka Castle Park website for the dedicated Spring Festival.

When to go: Late March to early April

Less crowded cherry blossoms: Amaji Park in Fokuka

At Amagi Park in Fukuoka (also known as Maruyama Park by locals), visitors are regarded as an impressive 4,000 cherry trees. The trees surround a quiet lake, making it an ideal place for a picnic. Bring a large picnic blanket or take advantage of the bench on the water. The reflections of the lake have a breathtaking effect, doubling the beauty of the flowers.

There is also a famous water display on the pond that illuminates the park at night and adds a charming atmosphere. During the festive season, the food stalls are in the area, so visitors can return empty-handed and enjoy local cuisine. The food stalls are open late, and they are till 10 pm

When to go: Late March to early April

A unique cultural spring festival

Kanamara Song of Kanana River

In Japan, fertility festivals are usually a prominent symbol of fertility – most notably the large penis representative. Kanamara Matsuri, held around Kanasaki Kanayama Shrine, is most famous and attracts tourists from all over the world. The festival is not one, but three large penis floats: one made of black iron, the other carved from wood, and the third one is bright pink and nicknamed “Elizabeth” donated by the Resistance Society.

Historically, sex workers have visited prayers for good sexual health. Over the years, music festivals have evolved into easy things and have gained the benefits of supporting HIV charities. It sells a range of interesting merchandise, with suppliers offering phonoid candies, from candies to Daikon Radish-shaped snacks.

When to go: The first Sunday of April
More information: Kanayama Shrine Official X

Alternatives to reduce congestion: Hodal Festival, Nigata

Located in Shimoraiden, a small town in Nagaoka, Nigata Prefecture, this festival is the largest phenotypic object in any fertility celebration in Japan. Weighing 600 kg, carrying it is no easy task – especially the tradition of inviting three newlywed women to ride on the buoy. The festive atmosphere is full of vitality, booths, games and various celebrations.

When to go: The second Sunday of March

Alpine Spring Music Festival pictures from perati komson / shutterstock.com

Spring Alpine Festival (Sanno Matsuri), Gifu

One of the most famous spring festivals in GIFU is the Spring Alpine Festival, also known as Sanno Matsuri. The festival takes place around the picturesque Alpine Old Town, which includes a long parade of 12 different buoys from Hie Shrine.

Each float is decorated with ornaments, and when night falls, each float is decorated with 100 lanterns, making it impressive. In addition, three float functions Karakuri Puppets show. We recommend staying for a few nights to fully experience this celebration, like Kyoto, but without all the crowds.

When to go: April 14-15

Yayoi Festival, Tochigi

Located in Nikko, Yayoi Festival, located in Futarasan Shrine, is a great way to celebrate spring. The festival features 11 large floats decorated with spring flowers that parade around the local area. This 1,200-year-old festival sees the entire town attending and visitors are invited to pull the buoy themselves.

When to go: April 13-17 (Paragraph from April 16-17)

Tips for participating in the Japanese Spring Festival

When visiting any festival, it is important to plan and prepare in advance. Get ready for the crowd – Even the overcrowded festival is still busy.

• transportation: Make sure you have enough time to set off. If you are going to another county or city to attend a music festival, such as the Alpine Mountains, consider staying for a night or two to travel.
  
• What to look for: Each festival has unique foods to try, such as penis-shaped snacks on fertility festivals. Make sure to bring cash, as many food stalls don’t accept cards.
• etiquette: Be polite and be prepared to move slowly. Pay attention to the people around you. always Take your trash home or handle it properly. If you want to dress up in a kimono, please!

Related Articles