The Three Major Festivals in Japan
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Facts & Figures
The three biggest festivals in Japan, each attracting thousands of visitors, are the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, the Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo, and the Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. Try to experience at least one of these incredible celebrations and immerse yourself in Japan’s ancient traditions, rich history, and deep spirituality. You can expect colourful parades featuring participants in historical costumes, magnificent yamaboko floats, traditional music, lively performances, delicious food stalls, and a truly unique, energising atmosphere.
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Overview of the Three Major Festivals in Japan
1. Gion Matsuri, Kyoto
The Gion Matsuri or otherwise known as the Gion festival or the festival of the Yasaka Shrine is one of Japan’s biggest and most famous festivals held annually in Kyoto. It’s an event that is partly a street event and also bears a religious attachment to the people of Kyoto. Do not miss the highlight on the 17th of July when the procession of the floats known as Yamaboko Junko starts.
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2. Kanda Matsuri, Tokyo
In mid-May, the Kanda Matsuri is celebrated with approximately 300000 visitors filling the streets around Kanda Shrine (Kanda-myojin) in Tokyo. The festival dates back to the Edo period and celebrates good fortune and prosperity. Around 200 portable Shinto shrines (mikoshi) are carried through the streets, accompanied by dancers and musicians as part of the vibrant parade.
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3. Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka
One of the largest events in Japan, attracting over 1.1 million visitors, takes place in Osaka during the Tenjin Matsuri at the end of July. Its uniqueness lies in the combination of both river and land processions. Imagine spectacular fireworks illuminating the night sky as boats decorated with glowing lanterns glide along the river, accompanied by powerful traditional music. It is an almost unreal and unforgettable experience for every visitor. During the festival, the deity of learning and scholarship, Sugawara no Michizane, is honoured.
