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Events
There is always something happening in Japan and whatever your
interests there is an event for you to enjoy! You can thrill to the
spectacle of a Sumo tournament, experience the breathtaking colour of
a fireworks festival or marvel at the ornate costumes and settings of
Kabuki drama. Including an event in your travel plans offers a unique
opportunity to take part in the Japanese culture and meet some of the
locals, and is a wonderful way to make your trip to Japan even more
memorable!
Festivals
Japanese Festivals or 'Matsuri' are
colourful celebrations that reflect the country's ancient religious
beliefs and mark the passing of the seasons. They are an important
part of life in Japan and can be enjoyed in cities and towns
throughout the country. Whatever time of year you decide to visit,
there is sure to be a festival taking place somewhere in Japan, from
elaborate displays of snow and ice sculpture at the Sapporo Snow
Festival to lively summer events like the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori
with its parade of giant illuminated figures.
Entertainment
Japan offers visitors a wealth of entertainment
opportunities, both modern and traditional. Contemporary diversions
include clubs, discos, live music venues and bars, as well as
international performance arts such as opera, ballet, drama and
musicals. For culture lovers who want to sample some of the
fascinating traditions of Japanese theatre, there is Kabuki, Bunraku
and Noh.
Tokyo Journal
has all the latest information on how to keep yourself entertained in
Japan's lively capital
Sports
Japan boasts a rich sporting history and has
plenty to offer both spectators and participants alike. Martial arts
such as Sumo, Karate and Kendo have been popular in Japan for
centuries and these traditional sports are still widely enjoyed today.
Japanese wrestling (Sumo) is one of the most exciting spectator sports
in Japan for both visitors and locals. Six tournaments, each lasting
15 days, are held annually in Tokyo (January, May and September),
Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). Download a guide
to
traditional sports
in Japan.
Over recent years Japan has also embraced a number of western sports,
including golf, skiing & snowboarding, baseball and football (soccer).
Baseball is Japan's number one sport and the professional league
games, which take place from April to October, are a highlight of the
sporting calendar.
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Information
provided by Japan National Tourist Organization.
