Top 10 Festivals in Japan 2026

Gigantic illuminated paper-wire floats depicting warriors and myths are pulled through the streets of Aomori each August.

Over a million spectators watch troupes of dancers perform the infectious bon dance through Tokushima's streets each August.

Massive snow and ice sculptures transform Odori Park each February, attracting over two million visitors to Hokkaido.

Ornate Edo-period floats with mechanical puppets process through the old town of Takayama in spring and autumn.

Osaka's greatest summer festival climaxes with a torchlit river procession of boats and a spectacular fireworks display.

Massive illuminated floats weighing up to 20 tons are hauled up steep hills in Saitama on a December night.

Kawasaki's quirky spring fertility festival draws international crowds and raises funds for HIV research.

One of Tokyo's three great festivals, featuring a grand procession of portable shrines through the streets near Akihabara.

Teams sprint massive wooden floats at breakneck speed around tight corners in this thrilling Osaka September festival.

Gigantic illuminated paper-wire floats depicting warriors and myths are pulled through the streets of Aomori each August.

Over a million spectators watch troupes of dancers perform the infectious bon dance through Tokushima's streets each August.

Massive snow and ice sculptures transform Odori Park each February, attracting over two million visitors to Hokkaido.

Ornate Edo-period floats with mechanical puppets process through the old town of Takayama in spring and autumn.

Osaka's greatest summer festival climaxes with a torchlit river procession of boats and a spectacular fireworks display.

Massive illuminated floats weighing up to 20 tons are hauled up steep hills in Saitama on a December night.

Kawasaki's quirky spring fertility festival draws international crowds and raises funds for HIV research.

One of Tokyo's three great festivals, featuring a grand procession of portable shrines through the streets near Akihabara.

Teams sprint massive wooden floats at breakneck speed around tight corners in this thrilling Osaka September festival.