Dance All Night at Gifu's Gujo Odori
Held every summer in the picturesque riverside town of Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture, Gujo Odori is one of Japan’s largest and most famous traditional folk dance festivals.
Ofusa Kannon Wind Chime Festival
Feel cool in the summer heat at this unassuming temple in Nara.
Gion Matsuri: A Party Worthy of the Gods
Held throughout the entire month of July, Kyoto's Gion Matsuri is the most famous festival in all of Japan.
4 Lesser-Known Tohoku Summer Festivals
Head north to see hundreds of riders in samurai armor recreate 1,000-year-old training techniques!
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.
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!
Rainy Season 101
While June to mid-July can be a drizzly experience in much of Japan, there are a few spots that look their very best at this time of year.
9 Ways to Talk About the Weather
Since it changes so often, the weather is actually a hot topic in Japan—no pun intended! Find out nine ways to get in on this easy conversation-starter!
