On September 15th, the spirit of the legendary samurai, Minamoto no Yoshitsune (1159 – 1189), is commemorated with a unique mix…

Heian Period Tradition Continues to Thrive The tradition of Kangetsu no Yūbe, a moon-viewing party, hails from Japan’s Heian period (794…

Kamigamo Shrine and the Auspicious Number Nine In Japanese culture, certain numbers hold significant meaning, and the number nine is considered…

The Origins and Meaning of the Seiryū-e Festival The Seiryū-e Festival, a relatively new event first held in 2000, has quickly…

Japan’s famous river lantern festival, Toro Nagashi, takes place annually in the beautiful Arashiyama Park in Kyoto. This traditional ceremony is…

Unravel the Delights of Kyoto’s Oldest Hanamachi at Kamishichiken Beer Garden In a captivating fusion of tradition and entertainment, the Kamishichiken…

Honoring Departed Souls Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, hosts a unique festival annually on August 16th called the Kyoto Gozan Okuribi (五山送り火),…

The Matsu-age Torch Lighting festivals, held annually during the month of August, celebrate rural Japanese traditions, bring local communities together, and…

The Kameoka Peace Festival Hozugawa River Fireworks, a traditional Kyoto event in August, commemorating peace and harmony, is held annually in…

A Centennial Celebration of Pottery in the Heart of the Ancient Capital Kyoto, Japan – From August 7-10, the annual Gojō-zaka…