Japanese festivals, or matsuri (Japanese: 祭り), are traditional festive occasions often celebrated with dance and music in Japan.

Matsuri, (Japanese: “festival”), in general, any of a wide variety of civil and religious ceremonies in Japan; more particularly, the shrine festivals of Shintō.

Matsuri are held to express gratitude to nature and the gods, to enjoy life, and to foster community. Knowing Matsuri is knowing Japan. You can experience history you would not normally see, interact …

Jul 9, 2025 · Explore our guide to matsuri in Japan. Learn about the key festivals, rituals, and cultural traditions that make these celebrations unforgettable.

Welcome to the wild world of matsuri, traditional Japanese festivals that blend spirituality, community, spectacle (and tons of food) into an unmistakable mix. An altar among the fields, a priest chanting, …

There are countless local festivals (祭り, matsuri) in Japan because almost every shrine celebrates one of its own. Most festivals are held annually and celebrate the shrine's deity or a seasonal or historical …

Feb 9, 2025 · What is a “Matsuri”? A matsuri (祭り) is a traditional Japanese festival that has been celebrated for centuries. These festivals originally served as religious ceremonies at Shinto shrines …