As winter descends on Japan, the country transforms into a festive wonderland, brimming with unique and vibrant events and celebrations. December in Japan is not just about serene snowscapes; it’s a month packed with vibrant festivals and cultural events that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich traditions and contemporary flair.
From historical commemorations to modern fanfare, here’s a curated list of ten must-visit events and festivals in Japan this December 2023.
1. Chichibu Night Festival (Yomatsuri) 秩父夜祭
Saitama’s Chichibu area hosts this stunning night festival, renowned as one of Japan’s three major hikiyama (float) festivals. Featuring floats illuminated by lanterns and paraded through the town, it’s a breathtaking display of local culture and history that dates back over 300 years. This festival takes place on December 2-3 every year.
Source: navi.city.chichibu.lg.jp
More info: Chichibu Night Festival.
2. Ako Gishisai Festival 赤穂義士祭
In Hyogo Prefecture, this festival celebrates the famed “Chushingura” story. Spectators can witness a procession of 47 samurais, bringing to life the historic tale through a captivating display. More info: Unfortunately, a specific URL for this festival is not available from the quoted source. This festival takes place on December 14 every year.
More info: The 120th Ako Gishi-sai
3. Akibasan Fire Festival 秋葉山 火祭り
A spiritual spectacle in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, where priests perform traditional dances, including an awe-inspiring fire dance, invoking blessings for safety and fortune. This festival takes place on December 15-16 every year.
Source: akihasan-shuyoji.or.jp
More info: Akibasan Fire Festival.
4. Asakusa Kannon Hagoita-Ichi 浅草観音 羽子板市
This unique market at Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple offers exquisitely crafted hagoita, traditional Japanese paddles believed to ward off evil spirits, making them popular souvenirs. The 18th of every month is the anniversary of the Kannon Bodhisattva. December 18, in particular, is called “Osame no Kannon 納めの観音” and is especially popular among worshippers.
Source: senso-ji.jp
More info: Asakusa Kannon Hagoita-Ichi.
5. Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri 春日若宮おん祭
At Nara Prefecture’s Kasuga Taisha, this festival showcases a parade with people in Heian and Edo period costumes, reflecting nearly 900 years of history. This festival takes place on December 15-18 every year.
More info: Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri.
6. Sekino Boroichi 関のボロ市
In Tokyo’s Nerima Ward, enjoy a vibrant street festival with 300 stalls offering everything from traditional goods to tasty winter foods. This festival takes place on December 9-10 every year.
Source: 号外Net 練馬区
More info: Nerima Goguynet
7. Ito Onsen Winter Fireworks and Yosakoi Festival とっておき冬花火大会＆冬のよさこいソーズラ祭り
Ito City, known for its hot springs, dazzles with winter fireworks and a Yosakoi dance performance, combining natural beauty with cultural celebration. This festival takes place on December 23, 2023.
More info: Ito Izu Tourism guide
8. Akutai Festival 悪態祭り
This “Cursing Festival” is a very rare and unique festival. 13 Tengu (long-nosed goblins) dressed in white walk through the 16 shrines offering gifts. This festival is known as one of the strangest festivals in Japan. This festival takes place on the 3rd Sunday of December
More info: The 10 Most Unique Matsuri in Japan
9. Echizen Coast Daffodil Festival 越前海岸 水仙まつり
Fukui Prefecture’s Echizen area celebrates its beautiful daffodils with various events, highlighting the flower’s significance in local culture. The festival will include daffodil flower giveaways, rice cake pounding, and more. This festival takes place on December 16-17 2023.
Source: ふくいドットコム
More info: Fukui-e.com
10. Daikon-Daki Festival 大報恩寺 大根炊き
In Kyoto, temples host daikon-daki events, with the most famous at Daihoonji (大報恩寺) Temple. Eating the daikon-daki is believed to promote good health, perfect for the winter season. This festival takes place on December 7-8, 2023.
Source: そうだ、京都、行こう。
More info: souda-kyoto.jp
December in Japan is like stepping into a colorful tapestry of experiences, ranging from age-old festivals to hip cultural happenings. It’s a time when you can dive headfirst into the wonders of Japanese traditions or get swept up in the excitement of contemporary festivities. These events are your ticket to truly living and breathing the Japanese way of life – so why not jump in and enjoy every moment? 🤗