A Series of Unique Festivals in Japan That You Shouldn't Miss

In addition to natural tourism, another attraction in Japan is festivals. Almost at any time, the Land of the Rising Sun continuously holds festivals. Many of them are unique festivals.

If you want to experience an unusual travel experience, visiting some unique festivals in Japan could be an option. So, what are the unique festivals in the Land of the Rising Sun?

Abare Matsuri

The first unique festival in Japan is the Abare Matsuri. This festival, held in Ishikawa Prefecture, usually takes place on July 5 and 6 every year.

During this festival, local residents will create many mikoshi and kiriko. After that, both will be burned, destroyed, or thrown. This festival is considered a marker of the arrival of summer in the Noto region and a symbol of gratitude to the Gods.

Kitsunebi Matsuri

This festival, also known as the Fox Festival, is usually held every September. In this festival, you will witness a pair of men and women wearing wedding attire, along with makeup resembling fox faces.

The couple will then be paraded around the city until they reach the Okura Inari shrine. According to local beliefs, those who witness this festival will receive a number of good fortunes, ranging from smooth business to a good harvest.

Shan Shan Matsuri

This festival is derived from a legend that occurred during the Edo period. In this festival, you will see several dancers in beautiful clothing and umbrellas. The dance is believed to bring rain after a drought.

At this festival, you not only watch the dancers with their umbrellas but are also invited to dance with them using umbrellas. After dancing, you can enjoy various Japanese delicacies while watching fireworks at night.

If you are interested in attending this festival, you can go to Tottori-shi, Tottori, Japan. This festival is usually held in August, primarily from the 13th to the 15th. However, the schedule may change at any time.

This festival has now been listed in the Guinness Book of Records in 2014 as the largest umbrella dance in the world.

Kurama no Hi-Matsuri

In addition to unique festivals, this festival is also one of the oldest festivals in Japan. In this festival, which has existed since 940, you will see several adults carrying torches weighing 50 to 80 kilograms.

Before they carry the torches, they must first light a bonfire at their respective homes. The bonfire must be lit next to historical objects, such as swords, shields, and paintings.

Once done, the adults will wear brightly colored clothing and carry torches. Not only adults, but children will also participate. However, children will carry lighter torches.

This festival is believed to be a way to protect the city from evil spirits. This festival is also held to honor the God Kurama who resides in Mount Kurama, Kyoto.

If you want to participate in this festival, please come to the Kurama area in Kyoto on October 22.

Almost at any time, Japan continuously holds festivals. Many of them are unique festivals. Some of them have been mentioned above. Among these unique festivals, which one will you visit?

Read also: Recommended Tourist Attractions in Japan Worth Visiting

Author: Anggie Warsito