3 Biggest Traditional Festivals in Japan in April
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The festival season in Japan is kicking off in April! Introducing 3 biggest traditional festivals in the country!
-Kanamara Festival, Kanagawa prefecture
Date: early April
Kamanara Festival (かなまら祭り) is held usually held on the first Sunday of April in Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki City. It’s known as one of the most unique and bizarre festivals in the world. Kanamara Festival is also called “Festival of the Steel Phallus” and the main theme of the event, phallus, is reflected in illustrations, candy, carved vegetables, decorations, and a mikoshi parade. The festival has been welcoming more and more visitors every year and becoming one of the most popular spring events in Japan!
Access: 2 mins walk from Kawasakidaishi station (Keikyu line)
-Inuyama Festival, Aichi prefecture
Date: early April
Inuyama Festival (犬山祭) is held on the first weekend of April every year since 1635 at Inuyama city, Aichi prefecture. The highlight of this festival is the parade across the city by 13 gigantic, three-storied floats with the sound of Japanese flutes and drums. At night, every float is lit by 365 Japanese lanterns. Usually the festival can be enjoyed with the view of fully blooming cherry blossoms and it’s one of the most picturesque scenery of spring in Japan.
Access: Inuyama Station (Nagoya Tetsudo)
-Takayama Festival, Gifu prefecture
Date: 14, 15 April
Takayama Festival (高山祭) is held at the popular historic town in Japan Alps, Takayama city, Gifu Prefecture. It’s considered as one of three most beautiful festivals in Japan along with Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and the Saitama’s Chichibu Yomatsuri. Takayama Festival is held twice a year in spring and autumn, and attracts a large number of visitors. The festival is known for traditional floats decorated with traditional and vivid design with marionettes. Usually the festival is held at the same season of cherry blossoms in this area, and the spectacular view can be enjoyed.
Access: 15 mins walk from JR Takayama station
Website: https://www.hidatakayama.or.jp/hidatakayama/maturi_spring/index.html
Looking for more information about spring in Japan? Then you may wanna check out these articles, too!
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Written by
"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈
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