Monthly guide to festivals in Japan | The Japan Times Online

Home > Entertainment > Festival listings

Listings:Currently showing films·Showtimes|Exhibitions|Music and Statione|Festivals

FESTIVAL LISTINGS

Japanese festivals and fairs in and around Tokyo (Feb. 2012) Tourist Information Center, Japan National Tourism Organization The Japanese festival information was compiled in cooperation with the Tourist Information Center of the Japan National Tourism Organization. (1st floor, Shin-Tokyo Bldg., 3-3-1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo 100-0005). Call (03) 3201-3331 for all your Japan tourist information needs (open 9 a.m to 5 p.m. daily except Jan. 1). Click to see January's festival schedule. Festivals around other areas of Kanto

Setsubun Feb. 3		Setsubun, a traditional ceremony to dispel demons at the noted temples and shrines all over Japan. According to the lunar calendar, "Setsubun" marks the last day of winter. People throng temples and shrines to vie with another for lucky beans which are thrown by priests, monks or famous figures who shout "Fuku-wa-uchi, Oni-wa-soto!" (Fortune in, Devils out!) to drive away imaginary devils. Mamemaki, bean-throwing ceremonies are scheduled at the following major temples and shrines in Tokyo: (1) Sensoji Temple, Taito-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place twice from 11:30 am and from 1:30 pm. After that, well-known figures join bean-throwing ceremonies four times from 4 pm to 5 pm. Access: The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18) (2) Zojoji Temple, Minato-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) joined by well-known figures takes place from around noon to 1 pm. Access: (1) The Toei Mita Subway Line to Onarimon Sta. (I 06), and then walk 3 min. (2) The Toei Asakusa or Oedo Subway Line to Daimon Sta. (A 09, E 20), and then walk 5 min. (3) Gokokuji Temple, Bunkyo-ku. Shishimai lion dance and Wadaiko, Japanese drum beating are performed from 1 pm. And then, Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around 3 pm. Access: The Yurakucho Subway Line to Gokokuji Sta. (Y 11) (4) Hie Shrine, Chiyoda-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from 11:45 am to 12:15 pm, following the rites which start from 11:30 am. Access: (1) The Ginza or Namboku Subway Line to Tameike-Sanno Sta. (G 06, N 06), and then walk 5 min. (2) The Ginza or Marunouchi Subway Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke Sta. (G 05, M 13), and then walk 8 min. (3)The Hanzomon, Yurakucho or Namboku Subway Line to Nagatacho Sta. (Z 04, Y 16, N 06), and then walk 10 min. (5) Kanda Myojin Shrine, Chiyoda-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place several times from around 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm, following the rites which start at 2 pm. Access: (1) The JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line or the Marunouchi Subway Line to Ochanomizu Sta.(M 20), and then walk 5 min. (2) The Chiyoda Subway Line to Shin-Ochanomizu Sta. (C 12), and then walk 5 min. (3)The Ginza Subway Line to Suehirocho Sta. (G 14), and then walk 5 min. (6) Kameido Tenjin Shrine, Koto-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around 5:40 pm to 6 pm, following Tsuina-shiki (rites of driving away devils) which start from around 5:30 pm. Access: The JR Sobu Line to Kameido Sta., and then walk 15 min. (7) Ikegami Honmonji Temple, Ota-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from 3 pm to 3:05 pm, following the rites which start from 2 pm. Access: (1) The Tokyu Ikegami Line to Ikegami Sta., and then walk 10 min. (2) The Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Nishi-Magome Sta. (A 01), and then walk 10 min. (8) Toyokawa Inari Betsuin, Minato-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from 3 pm to 3:30 pm, following the rites which start from 2 pm. Access: The Marunouchi or Ginza Subway Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke Sta. (M 13, G 05), and then walk 5 min. (9) Torigoe Shrine, Taito-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from 3:45 pm to 6 pm, following the rites which start from 3:30 pm. Access: (1) The JR Sobu Line, or the Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusabashi Sta. (A 16), and then walk 8 min. (2) The Toei Asakusa or Toei Oedo Subway Line to Kuramae Sta. (A 17, E 11), and then walk 8 min. (10) Shibamata Taishakuten Temple (Daikyoji Temple), Katsushika-ku. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from 2 pm and 3 pm, each lasting for 10 min. Access: The Keisei Kanamachi Line to Shibamata Sta.

Daruma-kuyo Feb. 3		Daruma-kuyo, memorial services for used Dharma dolls at Nishi-Arai Daishi Temple, Adachi-ku. When people make a wish and it is granted, they paint eyes of Dharma dolls. The memorial service is conducted from 10 am to around 12 noon. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around 3 pm to around 4:30 pm. Access: The Tobu Isezaki Line to Nishi-Arai Sta., and then take the Tobu Daishi Line to Daishi-mae Sta.

Setsubun Mame-maki-shiki Feb. 3		Setsubun Mame maki-shiki (bean-throwing ceremony) at Takahata Fudoson Temple, Hino in the suburbs of Tokyo, takes place from 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm. About 20 open-air stalls selling Dharma dolls are set up in and around the compound of the temple. Access: The Keio Line or the Tama-Toshi Monorail to Takahata-Fudo Sta.

Sohei-Gyoretsu Feb. 3		Sohei-Gyoretsu, a procession of monk soldiers at Hosenji Temple, Nakano-ku. About 50 monks and parishioners attired in monk soldier costumes leave Meitoku Inari Shrine at 3:30 pm for Hosenji Temple, to arrive there around 4 pm. The bean-throwing ceremony takes place in the compound of the temple from around 4:30 pm (lasting for about 20 min.). When it rains, the procession will be canceled. Access: The Marunouchi or Toei Oedo Subway Line to Nakano-Sakaue Sta. (M 06, E 30), and then walk 5 min.

Ume Matsuri Feb. 5 to Feb. 27		Setagaya Ume Matsuri, Japanese Apricot Blossom Festival at Hanegi Koen Park, Setagaya-ku. There are nearly 700 apricot trees in the park grounds. Various entertainments are held, such as Koto (Japanese harp) from 1:30 pm on the 11th, and Taiko Japanese drumming from 1 pm on the 19th and from 11:30 am on the 26th. Matcha (powdered green tea) is served from 10 am on the 20th, and Sencha (green tea) is served from 10 am on the 27th, both at Chashitsu (tea ceremony room) and open-air. Free tea tickets are distributed twice from 9:30 am and 11:30 am on both days, on a first-come, first-served basis. Access: The Odakyu Line to Umegaoka Sta.

Nihon O-Zumo Tournament or 32nd Grand Sumo Tournament Feb. 6		Access: The JR Sobu Line, or the Toei Oedo Subway Line to Ryogoku Sta. (E 12)

The 39th Tokyo Folklore Performing Arts Festival Feb. 6		Tokyo Kyodo Geino Matsuri, Local Performing Arts Festival at Tokyo Metropolitan Tama Social Education Center, Tachikawa in the suburbs of Tokyo. Various folk dances, Ohayashi festival music, Wadaiko Japanese drumming and the like native to Tama District are staged from 11 am to 4 pm. Access: The JR Nambu Line to Nishi-Kunitachi Sta., and then walk 10 min.

Hari-kuyo Feb. 8		Hari-kuyo, or memorial services for used, broken needles and pins. People put those needles and pins into a huge cake of Tofu or soybean curd placed on an altar, praying for improving their skills of needlework. The services are conducted at the following three temples: (1) Shojuin Temple, Shinjuku-ku. The memorial service is held from 11 am to around 1:30 pm. Access: (1) The Marunouchi Subway Line to Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Sta. (M 10), and then walk 5 min. (2) The Marunouchi or Toei Shinjuku Subway Line to Shinjuku-Sanchome Sta. (M 09, S 02), and then walk 8 min. (2) Shinganji Temple, Setagaya-ku. The memorial service is held from around 1 pm, lasting for around 30 min. Access: The Keio Inokashira Line or the Odakyu Line to Shimokitazawa Sta. (South Exit), and then walk 10 min. (3) Sensoji Temple, Taito-ku. The memorial service is held from 11 am to 3 pm. Access: The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18)

Ume Matsuri Feb. 8 to March 8		Yushima Tenjin Ume Matsuri, Japanese Apricot Blossom Festival at Yushima Tenjin Shrine, Bunkyo-ku. Nodate, an open-air tea ceremony is held from 11 am every Sunday during the festival period. Free tea tickets are distributed from 10 am each Sunday, on a first-come-first-served basis. <http://www.yushimatenjin.or.jp/pc/ume/f_maturi.htm> Access: The Chiyoda Subway Line to Yushima Sta. (C 13)

Hatsu-uma Festival Feb. 8		Hatsu-uma, the year's first "Horse Day" festival at Toyokawa Inari Betsuin Temple, Minato-ku. Open-air stalls are set up from 9 am to around 5 pm. Access: The Marunouchi or Ginza Subway Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke Sta. (M 13, G 05), and then walk 5 min.

Tako Ichi Feb. 8 to Feb. 20		Tako Ichi, Kite Fair at Oji Inari Shrine, Kita-ku. Kites, regarded as a talisman for preventing fire, are sold at some stalls among totaling 150 open-air stalls, which are set up in the precincts and along the approach to the Shrine from around 9 am to 6 pm. Access: The JR Keihin Tohoku Line, or the Namboku Subway Line to Oji Sta. (N 16), and then walk 6 min.

NHK Fukushi O-Zumo Feb. 11		Access: The JR Sobu Line or the Toei Oedo Subway Line to Ryogoku Sta. (E 12)

The parade in celebration of National Foundation Day Feb. 11		Kenkoku Kinen-no-hi Hoshuku Parade is held in celebration on National Foundation Day. The parade of a brass band and cars decorated with flowers starts from Meiji Park at 10 am, proceeding along Gaien-Nishi Street, Aoyama Street & Omote-Sando Street, and then reaches Meiji Shrine around 12 noon. Access: (1) The Toei Oedo Subway Line to Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Sta. (E 25), the JR Sobu Line to Sendagaya Sta. or Shinanomachi Sta. to go to Meiji Park. (the starting point near Nihon Seinen-kan) (2) The JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Sta., or the Chiyoda Subway Line to Meiji-Jingumae Sta. (C 03) to go to Meiji Shrine.

Ta-asobi Feb. 11		Ta-asobi, a traditional ceremony to pray for a rich harvest of the year, takes place at Tokumaru Kitano Shrine, Itabashi-ku, from about 6 pm to around 8 pm, following the ritual which starts from 5 pm. This is designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties. About thirty people in traditional attire pantomime the process of rice cultivation on the plank stage representing a paddy field. Access: (1) The Tobu Tojo Line to Tobu Nerima Sta., and then walk 10-20 min. (2) From Narimasu Sta., 15 min. by bus bound for Akabane, and get off at Kobai Shogakko Bus Stop, and then walk 5 min.

Ta-asobi Feb. 13		Ta-asobi, a traditional ceremony to pray for a rich harvest of the year, designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties, takes place at Akatsuka Suwa Shrine, Itabashi-ku. Mikoshi (a portable shrine) is carried onto the grounds in the precincts of the Shrine, and then Shishimai lion dance and Tengumai dance by men with long red-nosed masks are performed from 7 pm to around 9 pm. Access: The Toei Mita Subway Line to Shin-Takashimadaira Sta. (I 27), and then walk 15 min.

Suigyo Kokutoe Feb. 15		Suigyo Kokutoe (cold water ablution) at Nose Myokenzan Betsu-in Temple, Sumida-ku, from 1 pm to 1:30 pm. Priests in loincloth continually splash cold water over themselves while chanting sutras. Access: (1) Subway Toei Asakusa Line to Honjo-Azumabashi Sta., then walk 10 min. (2) JR Sobu Line to Kinshicho Sta. From there, take a bus for Otsuka; get off at Ishihara 4-chome Bus Stop, then walk 4 min.

The Ome Marathon Feb. 20		The Ome Marathon, with 20,000 runners participated, starts at 9:30 am (for the 10-km race) and at 11: 30 am (for the 30-km race) from Nihon Tabako Sangyo Ome Eigyosho Higashi near JR Kabe Sta. Access: The JR Ome Line to Kabe Sta.

2011 Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition Feb. 24 to March 1		Dento-teki Kogeihin-ten WAZA 2011 or Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition is held at Ikebukuro Tobu Department Store from 10 am to 8 pm (to 5 pm on Mar. 1st). It is a good chance to see and buy many articles of different kinds of Japanese traditional handicrafts: pottery, woven goods, dye stuffs, Japanese paper, stationery items, lacquer ware, wood and bamboo ware, from all over Japan. Admission is free. <http://www.kougei.or.jp/wnew/waza22.html> Access: (1) The Yurakucho or Fukutoshin Subway Line to Ikebukuro Sta. (Y 09, F 09) (2) The JR Yamanote Line to Ikebukuro Sta.

Tokyo Marathon 2011 Feb. 27		Tokyo Marathon 2011, with 30,000 runners participated, starts at Tocho, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building, Shinjuku-ku at 9:10 am. The race runs through Iidabashi, Imperial Palace, Hibiya, Shinagawa, Ginza, Nihombashi, Asakusa Kaminarimon, Tsukiji, Toyosu, and eventually reaches the finish line at Tokyo Big Sight (Ariake) in Odaiba. Access: (1) Walk 10 min. from Shinjuku Sta. (West Exit) on the JR Yamanote Line or walk 2 min. from (Exit A4) of Tochomae Sta. (E 28) on the Oedo Subway Line to the Metropolitan Government Office. (2) The Yurikamome Line originating at Shimbashi to Ariake Sta., and then walk 10 min. to the goal (Tokyo Big Sight).

Edo Nagashibina Feb. 27		Access: The Tobu Isesaki Line, the Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18)), then walk 1 min.

Hina Matsuri Feb. 27		Jingu-no-mori no Hina Matsuri, Dolls' Festival or Girls' Festival in the precincts of Meiji Shrine, Shibuya-ku, takes place from around 10 am to around 2:30 pm. Nagashi-bina, doll-floating ceremony is held at Kita-ike Pond in front of Homotsuden Treasure House from around 11 am. Access: (1) The JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Sta. (2) The Chiyoda Subway Line to Meiji-Jingumae Sta. (C 03)

Festivals around other areas of Kanto Tourist Information Center, Japan National Tourism Organization Festivals around Tokyo

Kurokawa Noh Feb. 1 to Feb. 2		Kurokawa Noh (local Noh play handed down from past generations in Kurokawa Village) is performed at Kasuga Shrine, Kurokawa, Kushibiki-machi, Higashi Tagawa-gun, Yamagata Pref. The Noh play going back more than 500 years will be performed from 6 am to 5 pm. Admission is ¥5,100. Access: JR Uetsu Line to Tsuruoka Sta. From there, 20 min. by bus for Kurokawa or Matsune; get off at Kurokawa bus stop.

Karuizawa Winter Festival 2012 Feb. 1 to Feb. 14		Karuizawa Winter Festival in Karuizawa-machi, Nagano Pref. The main streets of the city are illuminated from Feb. 1st to Feb. 14th, Valentine's Day. A fireworks display is held at Yagasaki Koen Park from 6 pm to 6:15 pm on Feb 11th. Some more events are scheduled during the festival period. Access: The JR Nagano Shinkansen Line to Karuizawa Sta., and then walk 5 min. to Yagasaki Koen.

Ya Ya Matsuri Festival Feb. 1 to Feb. 5		Yah Ya Matsuri Festival at Owase Shrine, Owase, Mie Pref. The festival with a 300-year tradition is known as a "quarreling" festival. Young men in traditional white costumes jostle one another through the city from 7 pm to 8:30 pm. Kori-kaki, men jumping into icy water, takes place in the Yanokawa River from 8 pm, on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th. On the 5th, Daimyo-gyoretsu, a feudal lord procession takes place on the old Kumano road to the Shrine from noon to 4 pm. Japanese archery from 7 pm and Shishimai lion dance from 9 pm are demonstrated in the precincts of the Shrine. Access: The JR Kisei Honsen Line to Owase Sta., and then walk 10 min.

Setsubun Feb. 3		Setsubun, a traditional ceremony to dispel demons at the noted temples and shrines all over Japan. According to the lunar calendar, "Setsubun" marks the last day of winter. People throng temples and shrines to vie with another for lucky beans which are thrown by famous figures who shout "Fuku-wa-uchi, Oni-wa-soto!" (Fortune in, Devils out!) to drive away imaginary devils. Bean-throwing ceremonies are scheduled at the following major nine temples and shrines in Kanagawa Pref. (1) Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine in Kamakura, about one hour by train from Tokyo. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around 1 pm, lasting for 30 min. Access: The JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Sta., and then walk 10 min. (2) Kenchoji Temple in Kamakura. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from noon to 12:25 pm. Access: The JR Yokosuka Line to Kita-Kamakura Sta., and then walk 20 min. (3) Kamakuragu Shrine in Kamakura. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around 3:30 pm to 4 pm. Access: (1) The JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Sta., and then walk 25 min. (2) 10 min. by bus from JR Kamakura Sta., and then get off at Daitonomiya Bus Stop. (4) Sojiji Temple in Yokohama. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around noon to 12:30 pm. The gate to this event is open at 10 am. Access: The JR Keihin Tohoku Line to Tsurumi Sta., and then walk 5 min. (5) Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place three times from 11:30 am, 2 pm & 4:30 pm, lasting for about 5 min. respectively. Access: The Keihin Kyuko Line to Keikyu Kawasaki Sta. From there, the Keikyu Daishi Line to Kawasaki-Daishi Sta., then walk 5 min.

Oni-yarai Feb. 3		Oni-yarai, traditional rites of driving away devils, take place at Chichibu Shrine, Chichibu, Saitama Pref. The bean-throwing ceremony is held every 30 min. from 10:30 am to noon and 3 times from 1 pm, 2 pm & 3 pm. The Oni-yarai ritual is conducted from around 7:30 pm, and is concluded by Fukujin-mai (Shinto dance with music) at around 9 pm. Access: (1) 1 hr. 50 min. by Seibu Railways' Express Train (Kyuko), or 1 hr. 30 min. by Seibu Railways' Limited Express (Tokkyu) Red Arrow, from Ikebukuro Sta. to Seibu-Chichibu Sta., and then walk 15 min. (2) The JR Takasaki Line to Kumagaya Sta. From there, the Chichibu Tetsudo Railway to Chichibu Sta., and then walk 3 min.

Setsubun Feb. 3		Setsubun ceremony to dispel demons, at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, Narita, Chiba Pref. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place three times from 11:30 am, 1:30 pm & 4 pm, each lasting for about 5 min. Access: (1) The JR Sobu Honsen-Narita Line's Rapid Train "Airport Narita" from Tokyo Sta. to Narita Sta., and then walk 15 min. (2) The Keisei Line from Ueno Sta. to Narita Sta., and then walk 15 min.

Setsubun-e Feb. 3		Setsubun ceremony to dispel demons at Kawagoe Daishi Temple, Kawagoe, Saitama Pref. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place from around noon to 1:30 pm. Access: (1) The Seibu Shinjuku Line to Hon-Kawagoe Sta., and then walk 15 min. (2) The Tobu Tojo Line to Kawagoeshi Sta., and then walk 20 min.

Setsubun-sai Tsuina-shiki Feb. 3		Tsuina-Gyoretsu at Hakone Shrine on the shores of Lake Ashi, Hakone, Ashigara Shimo-gun, Kanagawa Pref. A procession of about 150 people, including 20 of them attired in court costumes of the Heian period (794-1185), starts from Ichi-no-Torii Gate at around 10:30 am and arrives at Hakone Shrine around 11:30 am. From 12 noon, Tsuina-shiki, rites of driving away torch-bearing devils, take place in the main hall of the Shrine, and then Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) is held for 20 min. Access: 50 min. by bus from Odawara Sta., get off at Moto-Hakone Bus Stop, and then walk 5 min. to the Shrine. (To go to Odawara Sta., take the JR Tokaido Line or the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line from Tokyo Sta., or take the Odakyu Railways from Shinjuku Sta.)

Yoroi Toshikoshi Shuko Feb. 3		Yoroi Toshikoshi Shuko at Bannaji Temple, Ashikaga, Tochigi Pref. Yoroi-gyoretsu, an armored warriors' procession of some 200 participants, leaves Orihime Kominkan Public Hall at 7 pm, proceeding along Odori Ave. (Old National Highway Route No. 50) and arrives at the temple around 8 pm. Mamemaki (bean-throwing ceremony) takes place at the temple around 8:30 pm. Access: (1) The Tobu Isezaki Line to Ashikaga-shi Sta., and then walk 10 min. (2) 40 min. by the JR Ryomo Line from Oyama Sta. to Ashikaga Sta., and then walk 15 min.

Mantoro Feb. 3		Mantoro, Lantern Festival at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara, Nara Pref. Bugaku (ancient court dance with music) are performed from 5:30 pm. More than 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns in the precincts are lit up from 4:30 pm to 9 pm. Access: (1) The Kintetsu Nara Line to Kintetsu Nara Sta., and then walk 30-40 min. (2) Take Shinai-junkan Bus at Kintetsu Nara Sta. and then get off at Kasuga Omotesando Bus Stop.

Oni-oi-shiki Feb. 3		Oni-oi-shiki, rites of driving away devils take place at the two temples; Horyuji Temple in Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara Pref., and Kofukuji Temple, Nara, Nara Pref. Both are listed as the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. The rites are conducted at Horyuji Temple from around 5 pm to 7:30 pm, and at Kofukuji Temple from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. Access: (1) The Kintetsu Nara Line to Kintetsu-Nara Sta., and then walk 5 min. to Kofukuji Temple. (2) The JR Kansai Honsen Line to Horyuji Sta., and then walk 25 min. to Horyuji Temple. (or 5 min. by bus from JR Horyuji Sta. to Horyuji-mae Bus Stop.)

2011 Nagasaki Lantern Festival Feb. 3 to Feb. 17		2011 Nagasaki Lantern Festival is a picturesque Chinese event featuring 15,000 lanterns in the shape of various creatures lit up daily during the festival period. Chinese dragon dances and some other performing arts are daily demonstrated at Minato Koen Park, Chuo Koen Park, Kofukuji Temple and other sites. Colorful processions and many other events are scheduled during the period. Access: (1) Minato Koen (park): By street car from Nagasaki Sta. to Tsukicho Sta. and then walk 3 min. (2) Chuo Koen (park): 6 min. by bus from Sasebo Sta. to Matsuura Bus Stop, and then walk 3 min. (3)Kofukuji Temple: 5 min. by street car bound for Hotaru-chaya from Nagasaki Sta. and get off at Kokaido-mae Sta., and then walk 5 min.

Konaki Sumo Feb. 3		Konaki Sumo (baby-crying bout) takes place from 10 am to 2 pm in the compound of Saikyoji Temple, Hirado, Nagasaki Pref. Two babies, younger than 1 year old each, helped by their mothers, sit face to face on a carpet. The baby who cries first wins, following the old saying "Crying babies grow fast." It is a traditional local event with a long history. Access: The JR Sasebo Line to Sasebo Sta. From there, 1 hr. 20 min. by bus for Hirado Sanbashi to Shinmachi Bus Stop, and then walk 5 min.

Plum blossom Festival at Yugawara Feb. 5 to March 13		Yugawara-bairin Ume-no-Utage, Japanese Apricot Blossom Festival at Makuyama Park in Yugawara, Kanagawa Pref. Visitors can enjoy 4,000 blossoming Japanese apricot trees, lit up until 9 pm daily from Feb. 19th to Mar. 6th. Wadaiko Japanese drumming is performed from 4 pm and from 6:30 pm on Mar. 5th. <http://www.yugawara.or.jp/saisin/umenoutage/access.html> Access: The JR Tokaido Line to Yugawara Sta., and then take a direct bus (10 min.) bound for Makuyama Park, which is available during the period.

Kushiro Kori Matsuri Feb. 5 to Feb. 6		Kushiro Kori Matsuri, Ice Festival in Kushiro, Hokkaido. Many snow creations and ice sculptures are exhibited and lit up at the plaza in front of Kushiro Tourism and International Relations Center from 5 pm to 9 pm on both days. A fireworks display is scheduled twice from 5:30 pm and from 6:30 pm on the 5th. Access: The JR Nemuro Line to Kushiro Sta., and then walk 8 min.

Festival of Snow & Ice Feb. 5 to Feb. 6		Onuma Hakodate Yuki-to-Kori no Saiten, Festival of Snow & Ice, mainly at Onuma Park, Nanae-cho, Kameda-gun, Hokkaido, features the exhibition of snow statues and ice sculptures lit up from 5 pm to 8 pm on both days. Access: The JR Hakodate Line to Onuma-Koen Sta., and then walk 5 min.

Iwate Yuki Matsuri Feb. 5 to Feb. 13		Iwate Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival of Koiwai Bokujo Ranch, Shizukuishi-cho, Iwate-gun, Iwate Pref. The festival is highlighted by ice sculptures, snow carvings and about 70 Kamakura (huts made of snow). Access: (1) The JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line to Morioka Sta. From there, 35 min. by bus to Iwate Yuki Matsuri Kaijo Bus Stop. (2) The JR Tazawako Line to Koiwai Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus for Koiwai Nojo, and then get off at Iwate Yuki Matsuri Kaijo Bus Stop.

Kawazu Sakura matsuri Feb. 5 to March 10		Kawazu-zakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival in Kawazu, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Pref. Rich pink blossoms are distinctive of Kawazu-zakura which come into bloom in February. One could enjoy seeing the cherry blossoms along the Kawazu River, even at night until 9 pm, since the blossoms are lit up daily during the period. <http://www.kawazu-onsen.com/sakura/kaika.htm> Access: (1) 2 hrs. 30 min. by JR Limited Express "Odoriko" from Tokyo Sta. to Kawazu Sta. (2) 50 min. by the Izukyuko Line from Ito Sta. to Kawazu Sta.

Onda Matsuri Feb. 6		Asuka-no-Onda Matsuri (rice field work pantomime) at Asuka-ni-imasu Shrine, Asuka-mura, Takaichi-gun, Nara Pref. Masked men pantomime a process of rice farming in the precincts of the Shrine from 2 pm to around 3:30 pm. Access: The Kintetsu Kashihara Line to Kashihara Jingu-mae Sta. From there, take a bus for Okadera and then get off at Asuka Daibutsu-mae Bus Stop.

Kitabaru Mannengan Festival Feb. 6		Kitabaru Mannengan Festival to pray for a long life is held at Harada Shrine, Nakatsu, Oita Pref. Kitabaru Ningyo Shibai, local puppet dramas are dedicated to the Shrine from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Access: The JR Nippo Line to Nakatsu Sta. From there, 15-20 min. by taxi to the Shrine.

Yuki Matsuri Feb. 7 to Feb. 13		Sapporo Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The festival, the biggest in scale of this kind, started in 1950, and has become one of the most popular events in winter for now. Approximately 250 snow creations and ice sculptures are exhibited at three festival sites: Odori Site, Susukino Site, and Tsu-dome Site. There are many attractions mainly at the Odori Site, including pop-music shows on snow stages, the International Snow Statue Contest and the like. For more information, please refer to <http:// www.snowfes.com/english/index.html> Access: (1) The JR Hakodate Line to Sapporo Sta. (2) About 50 min. by bus from Shin-Chitose Airport to Sapporo Eki-mae Bus Terminal.

Fuyu Matsuri Feb. 8 to Feb. 13		Asahikawa Fuyu Matsuri, Winter Festival in Asahikawa, Hokkaido. Many snow creations and ice statues are exhibited on the riversides of the Ishikarigawa River, at Tokiwa Koen Park, on Heiwa-dori Street and around City Hall. A fireworks display is held from 7 pm to 7:15 pm daily during the period. Access: The JR Hakodate Line to Asahikawa Sta., and then walk 20-30 min.

Mombetsu Ryuhyo Matsuri Feb. 8 to Feb. 11		Mombetsu Ryuhyo Matsuri (Ice Floes Festival), Mombetsu, Hokkaido. Thousands of ice floes covering over the sea and ice carvings can be viewed. Access: (1) JR Hakodate Line to Asahikawa Sta. From there, 3 hrs. by bus to Mombetsu Bus Terminal, and then walk 10 min. to the festival site. (2) JR Sekihoku Line to Engaru Sta. From there, 1 hr. by bus to Mombetsu Bus Terminal, and then walk 10 min. to the festival site.

Hatsu-uma Feb. 8		Fushimi Inari Hatsu-uma, the year's first "Horse Day" festival at Fushimi Inari Shrine, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. People come from all over the country to pray for business prosperity and the safety of their families. Open-air stalls are set up along the approach to the Shrine from around 8 am to 5 pm. Access: (1) The JR Nara Line to Inari Sta., and then walk 2 min. (2) The Keihan Railways to Fushimi-Inari Sta., and then walk 4-5 min.

Monbetsu Ryuhyo Matsuri Feb. 10 to Feb. 13		Mombetsu Ryuhyo Matsuri, Ice Floe Festival at Kaiyo Koen Park in Mombetsu, Hokkaido, features ice sculptures and snow statues exhibited and lit up during the festival period. "Winter Festival in Mombetsu" is also held from Jan. 23 to Feb. 27. There are various events such as a fireworks display from around 7 pm on the 12th, and a wedding ceremony on the ice floe from 2 pm on the 13th. Access: (1) The JR Hakodate Line to Asahikawa Sta. From there, 3 hrs. by bus to Mombetsu Bus Terminal and then 10 min. by bus (shibasu) to the site. (2) The JR Sekihoku Line to Engaru Sta. From there, 1 hr. by bus to Mombetsu Bus Terminal, and then 10 min. by bus (shibasu) to the site.

Abashiri-Okhotsk Ryuhyo Matsuri Feb. 10 to Feb. 13		Abashiri-Okhotsk Ryuhyo Matsuri, Ice Floe Festival around Abashiri Port, Abashiri, Hokkaido, features thousands of ice floe covering over the sea, and about 40 ice carvings on exhibition, which are lit up at night until 10 pm during the festival period (until 4 pm on the 13th). A popular song-show is staged from 12:50 pm to 1:50 pm on the 12th. Some more events are scheduled during the festival period. Access: The JR Sekihoku Line to Abashiri Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus to "Michi-no-eki Ryuhyo Saihyo-sen Noriba" Bus Stop.

Yukidoro Matsuri Feb. 10 to Feb. 13		Hirosaki-jo Yukidoro Matsuri, Snow Lantern Festival at Hirosaki Castle, Hirosaki, Aomori Pref. About 150 snow lanterns and about 300 Mini-Kamakura miniature huts made of snow are lit up from around 4:30 pm to 9 pm daily during the festival period. Access: The JR Ou Line to Hirosaki Sta., and then walk 30 min.

Otsuna-hiki Feb. 10		Otsuna-hiki, a tug of war in Kariwano, Daisen, Akita Pref. The festival with a 500-year history is to pray for a rich harvest of this year, and is designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties. Townspeople lay out a giant straw-rope for a fight on Omachi-dori Street around 7 pm, and the tug-of-war starts at 9 pm. Access: The JR Ou Honsen Line to Kariwano Sta., and then walk 5 min.

Oni Matsuri Feb. 10 to Feb. 11		Oni Matsuri, Devil Festival at Akumikanbe Shinmeisha Shrine, Toyohashi, Aichi Pref., features several kinds of Kagura (Shinto dance with music) dedicated to the Shrine to dispel evil spirits and to pray for a good harvest of the year. The festival is highlighted by "Dengaku" local performing arts including Oni-odori in which "tengu", a long-nosed goblin, banters red devils from around 2 pm to 3 pm. This is designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties. Access: The JR Tokaido Line or JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line to Toyohashi Sta. From there, 10 min. by streetcar to Toyohashi Koen-mae Station, and then walk 2 min. to the Shrine.

Ume Matsuri Feb. 11 to March 6		Access: (1) The JR Negishi Line to Negishi Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus to Honmoku Bus Stop, and then walk 7 min. (2) The JR Keihin Tohoku, JR Tokaido or the Tokyu Toyoko Line to Yokohama Sta. (East Exit). From there, 35 min. by bus to Honmoku Sankeien-mae Bus Stop, and then walk 3 min.

Aragyo Feb. 11		Aragyo (religious austerities practiced by Buddhist monks), at Choshoji Temple, Kamakura, Kanagawa Pref., 1 hr. by train from Tokyo. About thirty young monks, wearing loincloth, who have been trained at another temple for the past four months, will continuously splash cold water over themselves at the "Suigyo-jo" (water ablution place) of the temple after they have recited the sutras. Access: JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus for Zushi via Nagoe; get off at Choshoji Bus Stop.

Mizu-kake Matsuri Feb. 11		Daito Ohara Mizu-kake Matsuri, Water Pouring Festival at Ohara Hachiman Shrine, Daito-machi, Ichinoseki, Iwate Pref. This festival has a 350-year history. Local people dedicate a giant Shimenawa or sacred straw festoon to Ohara Hachiman Shrine in the morning. About 300 half-naked men rush on the streets in the town, while townspeople dash cold water over the rushing men from 3 pm to around 3:50 pm. Access: The JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line to Ichinoseki Sta. and then take the JR Ofunato Line to Surisawa Sta. From there, 20 min. by bus for Ohara, and then get off at Daito Bus Center Bus Stop.

Namahage Sedo Matsuri Festival Feb. 11 to Feb. 13		Namahage Sedo Matsuri Festival at Shinzan Shrine, Oga, Akita Pref. The festival, designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties, features about 15 Namahage (men wearing devil masks) running around, dancing wildly and then serving mochi (rice cakes) to people thronged in the precincts of the Shrine from around 4 pm to 8:30 pm daily. Access: The JR Oga Line to Oga Sta. From there to the Shrine, about 1 hr. by Rinji-basu (special buses) which are available daily during the festival period.

Bonden Festival Feb. 11 to Feb. 17		Bonden Festival in Daisen on the 11th, and in Yokote on the 16th and 17th, Akita Pref. Bonden, sacred bamboo baskets decorated with colorful cloth and streamers, are carried by villagers to the Shrines. On the 11th in Daisen, two boats transfer Bonden from Hanadate Pier to the other side of the Omono River in the morning. And then, people carry all these Bonden up to Izusan Shrine on the mountain. On the 17th in Yokote, local young men carrying about 40 Bonden leave Yokote Chiiki-kyoku at around 10 am for Asahiokayama Shrine, to which Bonden are dedicated around 1 pm. Access: (1) The Omono River in Hanadate: The JR Akita Shinkansen Line or Ou Honsen Line to Omagari Sta., and then walk 20 min. to the festival site. (2) Asahiokayama Shrine: the JR Ou Honsen Line to Yokote Sta. From there, by bus for Mitsumata Onsen to Osawa Bus Stop, and then walk 40 min.

Inukko Matsuri Festival Feb. 12 to Feb. 13		Inukko Matsuri Festival in Yuzawa, Akita Pref., has a 380-year history. Akita-inu (dog) has been considered as a talisman by local people. In Chuo Koen Park, Inukko (dog dolls made of rice flour) placed on both sides of the snow miniature shrines are decorated with candles. A fireworks display is held from around 7:30 pm on the 12th. Access: The JR Ou Line to Yuzawa Sta., and then walk 10 min.

Kitami Fuyu Matsuri Feb. 12 to Feb. 13		Kitami Fuyu Matsuri, Winter Festival, Kitami, Hokkaido, features ice statues and snow carvings at the Tokusetsu Kaijo site on the south side of JR Kitami Sta. Street dance performances are demonstrated on the makeshift stage from 11:30 am to 3 pm on the 13th. Access: The JR Sekihoku Line to Kitami Sta., and then walk 5 min.

Yukidoro Matsuri Feb. 12 to Feb. 13		Uesugi Yukidoro Matsuri, Snow Lantern Festival at Uesugi Shrine and at Matsugasaki Koen Park, Yonezawa, Yamagata Pref. About 300 Yuki-doro big snow lanterns and more than 3,000 Yuki-bonbori small snow lanterns are lit up from 5:30 pm to 9 pm on the 12th, and to 8 pm on the 13th. Some more events are scheduled during the period.

Pure World 2009 Feb. 13 to Feb. 14		Pure World 2010 or a winter event in Kiyosato Highland, Hokuto, Yamanashi Pref., features the many candles lit up and displayed on the main street leading to JR Kiyosato Sta. from 5 pm to 9 pm on both days. Access: 2 hrs and 10 min. by JR Limited Express "Azusa" from Shinjuku Sta. to Kobuchizawa Sta. on the JR Chuo Line., and then 27 min. by the JR Koumi Line to Kiyosato Sta.

Kuromori Kabuki Feb. 15 to Feb. 17		Kuromori Kabuki (local Kabuki Play) with a more-than-270-year tradition is performed on the makeshift stage set up in the precincts of Hie Shrine at Kuromori, Sakata, Yamagata Pref. Shonen-Taiko (Japanese drumming performed by boys) starts at 10 am after the rites, and the Kabuki & Kyogen (Noh farce) are performed from around noon to 4 pm on both days. Access: The JR Uetsu Honsen Line to Sakata Sta. From there, 25 min. by bus for Yunohama, and then get off at Naka-Kuromori Bus Stop.

Yokote Kamakura Feb. 15 to Feb. 16		Yokote Kamakura, Snow Huts in Yokote, Akita Pref. Playing in snow huts is a popular pastime in winter for children living in the heavy snowfall areas. They make snow huts called "Kamakura" in which they play games and eat traditional delicacies. About 100 snow huts, and a number of snow creations are built on Kamakura-dori Street, in front of Yokote City Hall branch office and at Yokote-jo Castle. The best time to see this event is from 6 pm to 9 pm on both days. Access: (1) The JR Ou Honsen Line to Yokote Sta., and then walk 10 min. (2) 3 min. by bus from JR Yokote Sta. to Yokote Chiikikyoku-mae Bus Stop.

Emburi Festival Feb. 17 to Feb. 20		Emburi Festival, designated as one of National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties, is a harvest festival native to Hachinohe and its vicinities in Aomori Pref. The festival with an 800-year history features over 30 grouped villagers in fancy costumes parading along the trail up to Chojasan Shinra Shrine in the early morning, and through the city from around 10 am to 11:20 am on the 17th. Emburi local dances are performed at Shimin Hiroba (civic square) from 12:30 pm on the 17th, from 1 pm and from 2 pm on the 19th & 20th, and from 6 pm to 9 pm daily during the period. Access: The JR Hachinohe Line to Hon-Hachinohe Sta., and then walk 25 min. or 10 min. by taxi to Shinra Shrine, or walk 5 min. from the station to Hachinohe-shi Kokaido-mae Hiroba.

Tokamachi Yuki Matsuri Feb. 18 to Feb. 20		Tokamachi Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival in Tokamachi, Niigata Pref., is noted for its exhibitions of snow creations in the city. A music show and a kimono show, both being participated by citizens are held at Tokamachi High School ground from 6:30 pm on the 18th. Tokamachi is famous for its silk fabrics. A music and dance show by popular artists and a fireworks display are held from 5 pm to 6 pm on the 19th. Access: The JR Joetsu Shinkansen Line or the JR Joetsu Line to Echigo-Yuzawa Sta. From there, take the Hokuhoku Line to Tokamachi Sta.

Donzuki Matsuri Festival Feb. 19		Donzuki Matsuri Festival at Akatanisan Shrine, Shibata, Niigata Pref. The festival has an over 700-year history. Men dressed only in loincloth jostle one another in the precincts of the Shrine to pray for a good harvest and good health throughout the year, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm. . Access: The JR Uetsu Line to Shibata Sta. From there, 30 min. by taxi to the Shrine.

Eyo Festival Feb. 19		Saidaiji Eyo or Hadaka Matsuri, literally Naked Festival of Saidaiji Temple, the largest in scale of this kind, is held at Saidaiji Temple, Okayama, Okayama Pref. Some 9,000 young men wearing only loincloth vigorously purify themselves by continuously pouring cold water over their bodies in the Yoshii River, and then vie with each other for a pair of Shingi (amulets) which are thrown by the priest in the compound of the temple around midnight. The gallery tickets are sold at the temple on the day. Access: (1) The JR Sanyo Shinkansen Line to Okayama Sta. From there, 40 min. by special bus (Rinji-basu) to the temple. (2) The JR Ako Line to Saidaiji Sta., and then walk 10 min.

Ume Matsuri Feb. 20 to March 31		Mito-no-Ume Matsuri, Japanese Apricot Flower Festival at Kairakuen Garden, Mito, Ibaraki Pref. Various events are scheduled, such as (1) Koto (Japanese harp) from 10 am to 3 pm on Mar. 21st, (2) Hina-nagashi, the event of floating dolls down on a stream from 10:30 am on Mar. 5th, and (3) Nodate, an open-air tea ceremony from 10 am to 3 pm on Mar. 6th, 13th & 20th. Admission to this garden is free. <http://www.mitokoumon.com/maturi/ume/ume.html> Access: (1) The JR Joban Line to Kairakuen Rinji Sta. (temporary station). Direct local trains & Limited Express trains leaving Ueno Sta. from 9:10 am to 3:30 pm are operated on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from Feb. 20th until Mar. 21st. (2) The JR Joban Line to Mito Sta., and then 20 min. by bus to Kairakuen Bus Stop.

Daigoji Godairikison Nin'oe Feb. 23		Daigoji Godairikison Nin-no-e at Daigoji Temple, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. A contest, in which young men and women show their strength in lifting mochi (rice cakes), weighing some 150 kilograms (for men) and 90 kilograms (for women), is held from noon for women, and from 1 pm for men, in front of Kaido Hall of the temple. Access: The Tozai Subway Line to Daigo Sta. (No.1 Exit), and then walk 10 min.

Sanyare-sai Festival Feb. 24		Kamigamo Sanyare-sai Festival at Kamigamo Shrine, Kita-ku, Kyoto. The festival takes place from around 11 am to 12 noon. A group of boys who have become the age of 15, solemnly go up the steps in line to the Shrine for their Genpuku, the traditional initiation ceremony of coming-of-age. Access: By municipal bus (Shibasu) No. 4 from Kyoto Sta. to Kamigamo-Jinjya Bus Stop, or bus No. 9 to Kamigamo Misonobashi Bus Stop.

Hadaka Matsuri Feb. 25		Hadaka Matsuri (literally, naked festival) at Mimusubi Shrine, Yotsukaido, Chiba Pref., from around 1 pm to 3 pm. Local young men in loincloth holding infants in their arms step into the sacred muddy rice paddy and put a pinch of mud on their infants' faces. It is believed to protect babies from harm. And then, the young men play cavalry battles in the muddy rice paddy in prayer for a good harvest of the year. Access: The JR Sobu Line to Yotsukaido Sta. (South Exit), and then walk 15 min.

Baika-sai Feb. 25		Access: About 40 min. by municipal bus (Shibasu) No. 50 or 101 from Kyoto Sta., and then get off at Kitano Tenmangu Bus Stop.

Sagicho Feb. 26 to Feb. 27		Katsuyama Sagicho, burning piles of used New Year's decorations at Katsuyama, Fukui Pref. The festival with a 300-year history is to pray for a good harvest. Local performing arts are demonstrated on a dozen of Yagura (wooden high stages) in the city on the 26th and the 27th. Dondo-yaki, setting fire to New Year's decorations and ornaments, is scheduled on the riverbank of the Kuzuryu River from 9 pm on the 27th. Access: The JR Hokuriku Honsen Line to Fukui Sta. From there, take the Echizen Railways to Katsuyama Sta., and then walk 10 min. to the site.

SPRING GOURMET SPECIAL

We present dining establishments perfect for celebrating the coming of spring and indulging your appetite for excellent food and beverages. And what's not to love about scenic views, seasonal menus and special discounts?

Ready to expand your horizons and study in Japan?

Here's your resource for locating the educational institutions and curriculum best suited to you and your goals.