Another year, another crop of festivals. Japan loves any excuse to break out the sake, but which events are absolute must-sees?
Sapporo Snow Festival
February may be the shortest month of the year, but in Sapporo they make sure it packs a punch. The annual Sapporo Snow Festival is a week-long event that attracts thousands of tourists in each year in search of good old-fashioned winter fun. Admire the ice sculptures, participate in snowman competitions, marvel at the elaborate holiday lights, and enjoy live musical performances - yes, even in the cold!
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms (locally known as "sakura") and you can set your watch by the countdown to the first viewing. Held every year as the weather finally warms, cherry blossom festivals are a much-loved way of getting together with friends and family and welcoming the spring. Pack a picnic lunch and camp out in the park, or just find a local celebration and enjoy games, parades and sweets. It's pretty much a national pastime, so you can find a cherry blossom party anywhere in Japan!
Health and Sports Day
The second Monday of every October is Japan's official Health and Sports Day. Created in the 60s as a tag-along to the Olympics, it's a national holiday that celebrates fitness with a variety of competitions and sporting events. Break out the sweats or just a pompom - there will be plenty to watch!
Golden Week
Golden Week is one of the biggest holidays in Japan - a seven-day period at the end of April when everything closes and everyone takes time off. You'll find lots of festivities during Golden Week, including carnivals, parades, and even drinking competitions as the entire country cuts loose as one. The week traditionally ends on May 5, Children's Day, with one last hurrah of games and entertainment. Be sure to pack your yukata!
