FESTIVALS

2016 is a golden year for Japan's big Golden Week holiday. Not only can you catch a few traditional annual Golden Week events, but also some pretty rare ones as well!

Want to come to Japan but don't know where to start? Here's our quick overview of the visa process. Check it out, apply, and pack your bags!

See life in Akita through the eyes of elementary school students as this snowbound town prepares for its winter balloon festival. If you've ever lived in small-town Japan, we challenge you not to cry.

These giant portable monster shrines took over Ueno Park to dazzle and frighten all.

Through the heavy Akita snowfall, a train with one or two cars makes its way across bridges that span deep valleys and through tunnels that burrow into the heart of the mountains of the region.

March 3 is a special day in Japan: it's the day of the Hina Matsuri, or Girls' Festival. On this day, girls are celebrated and families pray for their health and prosperity.

Follow this dancing girl all through her amazing study abroad experience in Japan, and be sure to watch for some stunning respect from a well-antlered deer!

Festivals, beautiful scenery, food, culture and fun! You'll never get bored in Kagoshima.