Annual event

What Is “Obon”? Discover Japan’s Beautiful Festival to Welcome Ancestors – Part 2

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~”Bon Odori“: Japan’s Welcoming Summer Dance You Can Join Too!~ Summary “Bon Odori” is a traditional Japanese summer dance held during the “Obon” season to honor and welcome ancestral spirits. It’s an inclusive celebration where everyone can join the circle, often accompanied by food, music, and lanterns.

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What Is “Obon”? Discover Japan’s Beautiful Festival to Welcome Ancestors – Part 1

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~How Japan Honors the Dead: A Guide to the “Obon” Festival~ Summary “Obon” is a traditional Japanese Buddhist event where families honor and welcome the spirits of their ancestors through rituals like visiting graves, preparing altars, and offering symbolic foods. It’s a meaningful time that blends spirituality, family connection, and cultural

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Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 3

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~What to Bring and What to Know: Essential Tips and Local Etiquette of Fireworks Festivals~ Summary Japanese fireworks festivals are beautiful but can get very crowded, so it’s important to arrive early, follow local manners like not taking up too much space, staying quiet during the show, and avoiding smoking outside

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Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 2

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Good Locations of Fireworks Festivals in Tokyo: A Must-See Summer Experience in Japan~ 1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival:This is one of the most famous and historic fireworks festivals in Tokyo. With a tradition that dates back to the Edo period, visitors can enjoy the fireworks from two locations along the Sumida

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Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 1

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Why Japan’s Summer Fireworks Festivals Are a Must-See Cultural Experience~ Summary Japan’s fireworks festivals are spectacular cultural events held nationwide mainly in July and August, combining centuries-old tradition with breathtaking displays, food stalls, and people in yukata. It’s a must-see experience that brings together history, craftsmanship, and community celebration.

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“Tanabata”: The Japanese Star Festival of Love and Wishes

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Why Japanese People Write Wishes on Paper for “Tanabata“~ Summary “Tanabata” is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on July 7th, based on a romantic legend about two star-crossed lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi, who can only meet once a year. People write their wishes on colorful paper strips called tanzaku and hang

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Discover “Hanami”: Japan’s Beautiful Picnic Tradition–Part 4

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~History of “Hanami”~ “Hanami” started way back in the Heian period (794–1185) Aristocrats would write poems and play kemari. It’s a game where you kick a ball and try not to let it fall while enjoying the cherry blossoms. Summary Only Aristocrats enjoyed “Hanami” in the Heian period (794–1185) Regular people

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Discover “Hanami”: Japan’s Beautiful Picnic Tradition–Part 2

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Best Locations and Blooming Times~ Summary ・When to do Mainly in spring. The peak season is from late March to early April but depending on areas.・Where to enjoy Large parks and riversides and so on.・What to do Picnics are usually held under the cherry blossoms.  Family and friends spread out sheets, bring food and

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