Japanese Festivals And Events Not To Be Missed In 2025

Japan is renowned for its vibrant cultural traditions, and its festivals are an exciting showcase of history, spirituality, and local heritage. Whether you're drawn to the beauty of traditional performances or want to lose yourself in the beauty of the Sakura trees, Japan's 2025 events offer something for every traveller. So what best way to start the new year with some of the must-visit festivals and events in Japan to make 2025 more special?

Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri)

• When: February 4- 11, 2025

• Where: Sapporo, Hokkaido

What’s Special?

The Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan's most famous winter celebrations, turns Odori Park, Tsudome, and Susukino into enchanted winter wonderlands with breathtaking ice and snow sculptures. The painstaking creativity that goes into each sculpture, some of which are as tall as 15 meters, is what makes this event unique. Beyond the visual spectacle, visitors can also enjoy snow slides, ice skating, and delicious local food, including hot soups to warm up the chilly weather.

Cherry Blossom Festival (Hanami)

When: Late March to early April 2025

Where: Nationwide

What’s Special?

Viewing cherry blossoms, or hanami, is a beloved Japanese custom. Starting from March 29 to March 31, Tokyo and Kyoto will have the most breathtaking views for you to visit in 2025. Picnics are held in parks and along riversides when Sakura trees are in bloom. To add to the blossoms' ethereal splendour, festivals frequently feature tea ceremonies, traditional music performances, and evening illuminations called yozakura.

Awa Odori Festival

When: August 12–15, 2025

Where: Tokushima City, Shikoku

What’s Special?

Held annually in Tokushima on Shikoku Island, the Awa Odori is a lively traditional dance festival. What sets it apart is its dynamic group dances, with participants wearing yukata and performing in synchronised movements. The festival is one of Japan’s largest folk dance celebrations, and the streets come alive with an infectious energy as locals and visitors join in. Whether you're watching or dancing, the Awa Odori is a great opportunity to experience Japanese folk culture firsthand.

Gion Matsuri

When: July 1–31, 2025

Where: Kyoto

What’s Special?

The Gion Matsuri is a centuries-old celebration and one of the most famous traditional festivals in Japan. Held throughout July in Kyoto, it honours the Yasaka Shrine and is a grand spectacle of floats, traditional music, and vibrant processions. The festival culminates in the grand parade of floats on July 17. What makes the Gion Matsuri particularly special is the intricate craftsmanship of the floats and the deep spiritual connection the event has with Kyoto's rich history.

 Nebuta Matsuri

When: August 2–7, 2025

Where: Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture

What’s Special?

Held in Aomori, the Nebuta Matsuri features massive, beautifully illuminated floats that are paraded through the streets at night. The floats depict warriors, historical figures, and mythical creatures, and are accompanied by dancers and taiko drummers. What sets Nebuta Matsuri apart is the mesmerising sight of the floats lighting up the night sky, creating a magical atmosphere. The festival’s energy and artistic displays make it a highlight for any visitor to Japan during the summer.

Be sure to add these to your travel itinerary and immerse yourself in the beauty and tradition of Japan in 2025!