Tohoku's 3 Great Summer Festivals
Head to northern Japan this summer for huge glowing floats, giant poles covered in lanterns and streets festooned with positive wishes for the future.
Yukata 101
What's a 'yukata'? And more importantly, how do you put one on? Better find out before summer festival season arrives!
What is Obon?
Obon is a summer event during which people welcome the spirits of their ancestors back home. It's considered Japan’s most significant occasion next to New Year’s, but the customs followed can vary considerably by region.
What is Tanabata?
Also known as the Star Festival, Tanabata is traditionally held on the seventh day of the seventh month of the old lunar calendar, celebrating the legend of the one day of the year when the deities Hikoboshi and Orihime are allowed to meet.
How to Get the Most Out of Fireworks in Japan
One of the centerpieces of the Japanese summer is the fireworks festivals that run through July and August. Find out how to get the most out of the experience!
World's First Monster Slider Coming to Japan
Take a ride on a wild slide that combines several thrilling slide elements into one monster experience.
Witness the Fastest Hands in Japan!
'Mochi-tsuki' extraordinaire Mitsuo Nakatani risks having his hand crushed about four times per second while making this traditional Japanese snack.
Yanbaru Forest Toy Museum in Okinawa
This toy museum on the northern end of Okinawa's main island is basically a big room full of wooden toys!
