Gaido Japan

Lambassador Festival
2023-04-22 11:00 - 2023-04-29 16:00 (Asia/Tokyo)
Lamb meat is a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide, and in Japan, it is commonly used in jingisukan (Genghis Khan), a delicious dish that originated in Hokkaido. The dish usually consists of thinly sliced lamb or mutton, along with vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, grilled on a special convex-shaped skillet. If you are a lamb enthusiast, the Lambassador Festival is an event in Tokyo that you should not miss. The festival celebrates Australian lamb, and attendees can savor a variety of lamb-based dishes, including lamb and chickpea stews, lamb-filled nikuman, and even lamb-based hot dogs. While entry to the event is free, you will need yen if you plan to sample the dishes on offer.

Kadena AmericaFest
2023-04-22 14:00 - 2023-04-23 21:00
Kadena Air Base, situated in Okinawa, is a crucial United States Air Force installation for regional security and partnerships with Japan and its allies. To celebrate this partnership, Kadena AmericaFest opens the base to visitors for an event that features aircraft displays, musical performances, fireworks, American food, and vendors selling military-related merchandise. While the event is open to the public, valid identification is required for entry, and the entry requirements differ for Japanese and non-Japanese passport holders. Visitors are advised to check the infographic provided by the Kadena Force Support Squadron for the full details.

Sanrio Fes
2023-04-23 10:00 - 2023-06-11 18:00
Sanrio, established in 1960, is a worldwide phenomenon known for its iconic characters such as Hello Kitty, Little Twin Stars, and My Melody. The brand has inspired various products such as toys, stationery, clothing, and accessories. The Tokyo Big Sight Complex is hosting a special event that celebrates everything Sanrio, which includes stage performances, character meet-and-greets, and limited edition merchandise for purchase.
To attend the one-day Sanrio Fes, you need a ticket that can only be obtained through a lottery system. Details on how to obtain a ticket can be found on the official event website. In case you don’t get a ticket, the event will be broadcasted online. More details about the online component will be added to the website closer to the event date.

Takatori Pottery Festival
2023-04-28 00:00 - 2023-04-30 00:00
Takatori pottery is a type of traditional ceramicware that originated in Korea and was brought to Fukuoka in the 16th century. It’s known for its rustic shapes, rough textures, and earthy tones, and if you’re interested in exploring Takatori ware, the annual Takatori Pottery Festival is a great place to start. The festival has been running for over 60 years and offers a chance to purchase Takatori ware at a 20% discount from the usual retail price. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see and purchase these unique and beautiful pieces of pottery.

Craft Gyoza Festival Hiroshima
2023-04-28 11:00 - 2023-05-07 20:00
The Craft Gyoza Festival is expanding its horizons this spring by bringing its successful event to Hiroshima Gate Park Plaza. Following previous successful turnouts in Tokyo, Osaka, and Saitama, the festival will offer a diverse range of gyoza types for visitors to try, such as wagyu beef-filled gyoza from Saga Prefecture and bite-sized circular gyoza from Hakata in Fukuoka Prefecture. The complete list of vendors will be unveiled on the official event website closer to the event start date. Be sure not to miss this exciting opportunity to experience delicious gyoza and immerse yourself in the festival’s lively atmosphere!

Ryujinkyo Koinobori Festival
2023-04-29 - 2023-05-14 | 2133-6 Keganochō, Hitachiota, Ibaraki 313-0351, 2133-6 Keganochō, Hitachiota, Ibaraki 313-0351, Hitachiota, Ibaraki, 313-0351, Japan
The Ryujin Bridge in Ibaraki Prefecture is a massive pedestrian suspension bridge that opened in 1994. It’s a popular destination for nature enthusiasts who enjoy the seasonal views from the bridge, and it’s also one of Japan’s top spots for bungee jumping, providing an exhilarating experience for adrenaline junkies. During the Golden Week period, the bridge hosts a koinobori (carp streamer) festival to celebrate Children’s Day. Koinobori are symbols of strength and perseverance because carp are known for swimming upstream and overcoming obstacles. On May 5th, which is Children’s Day, children who are junior high school age or younger can cross the suspension bridge for free during the koinobori festival. On regular days, the crossing fee is ¥320 for adults (high school students and above), and ¥210 for children.

Spring Snow Festival at Yuzawa Kogen
2023-04-29 10:00 - 2023-05-07 15:00
Niigata Prefecture is known for its heavy snowfall during winter, which can still be seen in some areas even in late spring. The Yuzawa Kogen Spring Snow Festival takes advantage of this remaining snow by offering sledding and fun games. Food trucks will also be available from May 3rd through 5th during the event.
The festival’s unique appeal lies in the opportunity to experience the last remnants of winter while enjoying the fresh greens of spring. The venue offers spectacular views, adding to the overall charm of the event. Ropeway tickets are required to access the festival, priced at ¥ 2600 for adults and ¥ 1300 for children (round trip). Visitors are advised to bring yen for any additional food or drink purchases.

NAKED Flower Aquarium
2023-04-29 10:00 - 2023-06-18 19:30
NAKED, a digital art collective, has been organizing seasonal collaborative events at Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa since 2015. The latest event, the NAKED Flower Aquarium, will be held from late spring to early summer under the theme of “Bring Your Happiness”. The event will feature immersive spaces filled with lush greenery, resembling a summer forest. Visitors can also enjoy an area with projection mapping of swaying sea anemones that emulate the appearance of flowers under the sea. Admission to the event costs ¥2500 for adults (high school students and above), ¥1300 for elementary and junior high school students, and ¥800 for infants aged four and above.

Disney Animation Immersive Experience
2023-04-29 10:00 - 2023-08-31 22:00
Disney Animation Studios, known for their innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and cutting-edge animation techniques, have captivated audiences of all ages since their beginnings in 1923. A special event taking place at Tokyo’s Mori Arts Center Gallery is set to immerse attendees in all things Disney through visuals and music, to evoke the feeling of being in the movies yourself. The Disney Animation Immersive Experience allows visitors to feel as if they’re riding a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine, or surrounded by animals on the savannah as Rafiki introduces Simba in The Lion King. Please note that ticket prices differ depending on the day and stage of the event. The breakdown of ticket prices can be found on the official event website, but adult admission ranges from ¥3000 to ¥3900.

Naked Flower Tower
2023-04-29 19:00 - 2023-06-30 21:00
a digital art collective has been behind several seasonal projection mapping events at popular urban destinations in Japan, such as Tokyo Tower, Abeno Harukas in Osaka, and Sapporo TV Tower. The collective has now collaborated with the Mirai Tower in Nagoya to create a summer floral-themed event called NAKED Flower Tower. The event features a 360° projection mapping show of blooming flowers on the tower’s window surfaces, and artificial flowers are used to decorate the tower’s Sky Deck observatory area.
If you are visiting Nagoya until the end of June, you can experience the NAKED Flower Tower event. Admission is ¥1500 for adults (high school students and above), ¥600 for children (elementary and junior high school students), and free for children below preschool age. Don’t miss the chance to witness the impressive projection mapping show and enjoy the colorful floral decorations at the Mirai Tower in Nagoya.

Craft Gyoza Fes at Osaka Castle Park's
2023-05-02 10:00 - 2023-05-07 20:00
If you love gyoza and plan to visit the Osaka area in early May, make sure to check out the Craft Gyoza Fes at Osaka Castle Park’s Sun Plaza (Taiyo-no-Hiroba). The festival will feature a range of gyoza varieties for visitors to try, including wagyu-filled gyoza from Saga Prefecture and bite-sized gyoza from Hakata in Fukuoka Prefecture. The complete menu lineup will be posted on the official event website in the near future. So, don’t miss the chance to indulge in some delicious gyoza while enjoying the festival’s atmosphere!

Kanahebisui Shrine Flower Festival
2023-05-03 08:30 - 2023-05-15 20:30
Kanahebisui Shrine in Miyagi is a popular destination for those seeking good fortune in business and finances, but it’s also a haven for flower enthusiasts. During the spring season, visitors can enjoy the stunning blooms of a dedicated peony garden and a 300-year-old wisteria tree. A yearly festival is held when the flowers are at their most magnificent.
The shrine’s peony garden features around 1000 peonies in 100 different varieties, and visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors both day and night. The festival admission fee differs based on the time of day you plan to visit. Daytime entry from 8:30am to 4:30pm costs ¥300, while evening entry from 5:30pm to 8:30pm costs ¥600.

Golden Week Event at Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
2023-05-03 10:00 - 2023-05-07 15:00
Located in Hokkaido’s capital of Sapporo, the Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is a popular tourist destination that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. This spring, the venue is hosting a Golden Week event that features a range of fun and family-friendly activities. Visitors can watch sheep-shearing demonstrations (held at 11:00 and 13:30 each day), fly kites, or participate in craft workshops (with a fee of ¥500). The festival also features music and juggling performances to keep everyone entertained.
While there is usually an admission fee to enter the observation hill (¥600 for adults, ¥300 for elementary and junior high school students), the fee for elementary-aged children will be waived during the festival period.

Haisai Festival
2023-05-03 10:00 - 2023-05-07 20:00
Haisai Festival in Kawasaki is a celebration of Okinawan culture that has been running for 20 years. Visitors can enjoy Okinawan food like soki soba, taco rice, and Blue Seal ice cream, watch traditional music and dance performances, and purchase unique Okinawan souvenirs. The event is free to attend, but make sure to bring cash if you plan to buy food, drinks, or souvenirs. You can also check out the vendors on the official website before your visit.

Osaka ComicCon
2023-05-05 00:00 - 2023-05-07 00:00
The Osaka ComicCon is a new addition to the popular Tokyo ComicCon, celebrating pop culture, including comics, movies, TV shows, video games, and more. The event features big names in the entertainment industry, such as Millie Bobby Brown from Stranger Things and Misha Collins, known for his role in Supernatural. The event also attracts many cosplayers, providing an excellent opportunity to show off costumes. Tickets can be purchased on the official event website.

Odawara Fish Festival
2023-05-07 09:00 - 2023-05-14 14:00
Odawara is a coastal city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, and it is well-known for its fishing culture. One of the popular attractions in Odawara is the Odawara Fishing Port, where local fishermen catch a variety of fish, such as sea bream, mackerel, and sardines, which are sold at local markets and restaurants.
Every year, the Odawara Fish Festival is held at the fishing port, which is a family-friendly event that offers a range of activities to enjoy seafood and appreciate marine life. Visitors can purchase freshly caught fish from that morning, participate in fish-boning experiences, and explore a tactile aquarium, which is perfect for kids. Additionally, several local restaurants will be participating in the event, offering various fish-based dishes for purchase to satisfy any hungry visitors.

Huis Ten Bosch Rose Festival
2023-05-08 09:00 - 2023-05-28 21:00
Huis Ten Bosch is a remarkable amusement park located in Nagasaki Prefecture that faithfully replicates a traditional Dutch town. Its charming architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant flower gardens create an enchanting atmosphere. Throughout the year, the park hosts various festivals to celebrate its beautiful flower gardens, and during the month of May, the spotlight is on roses.
Visitors to Huis Ten Bosch in May will be treated to a breathtaking display of roses. The park boasts an impressive collection of 2000 rose bushes, showcasing 100 different varieties. The sight of these blooming roses is a feast for the eyes and a true delight for flower enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to purchase rose plants, flower crowns, and even indulge in rose juice, further immersing themselves in the enchanting ambiance.
While admission prices to the park vary depending on the pass you choose, a standard one-day adult admission is priced at 7000 yen. This not only grants access to the rose festival but also includes admission to the park’s wide range of attractions and entertainment options. From thrilling rides to cultural experiences and picturesque landscapes, Huis Ten Bosch offers a diverse and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you are a nature lover, a fan of Dutch architecture, or simply seeking a unique amusement park experience, Huis Ten Bosch’s rose festival is sure to captivate your senses and leave lasting memories. The park’s dedication to recreating the charm of a traditional Dutch town, combined with the beauty of the rose gardens, creates a truly magical setting.
Immerse yourself in the world of roses and explore all the wonders Huis Ten Bosch has to offer. It’s a chance to escape to a picturesque oasis and indulge in the beauty of nature, right in the heart of Nagasaki Prefecture.

Early Summer Wine Festival
2023-05-08 09:00 - 2023-05-28 21:00
Coinciding with the annual Rose Festival, Nagasaki’s Huis Ten Bosch amusement park presents the Early Summer Wine Festival, offering a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. This festival allows visitors to explore a selection of 25 bottled wines and 5 barrel wines from Italy and France. With such a variety to choose from, attendees can indulge their palates with the flavors and aromas of different wines.
To enhance the ambiance and add an air of elegance, classical music performances will be held during the festival. The combination of fine wines and the enchanting melodies of classical music creates a sophisticated and enjoyable atmosphere for all attendees.
For those who do not consume alcohol, the festival also provides a non-alcoholic beverage menu, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities. This inclusive approach allows all visitors to enjoy the event and find beverages that suit their preferences.
The festival offers two options for all-you-can-drink menus. The alcoholic all-you-can-drink menu is priced at ¥2,700 and allows attendees to sample a wide range of wines. Alternatively, single glasses of wine can be purchased individually. For non-alcoholic options, the all-you-can-drink menu is priced at ¥1,200, offering a selection of refreshing beverages to enjoy throughout the festival.
Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply looking to explore new flavors, the Early Summer Wine Festival at Huis Ten Bosch promises to be a delightful experience. Immerse yourself in the world of fine wines, savor the taste of Italy and France, and enjoy the added elegance of classical music.
Please note that the prices mentioned are provided as a reference and may be subject to change. For more accurate and up-to-date information on ticket prices and festival details, I recommend visiting the official event website or contacting Huis Ten Bosch directly.

Kioi Rose Week
2023-05-10 - 2023-05-31 | 1-2 Kioicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0094, 1-2 Kioicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0094, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 102-0094, Japan
Kioi Rose Garden, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a beautiful oasis featuring around 600 rose bushes in 90 different varieties. During the spring season, the garden hosts Kioi Rose Week, a multi-week event celebrating the gorgeous blooms. In addition to the variety of flowers to admire, the event also includes a rose-themed artwork component, offering visitors the chance to enjoy nature and culture together. If you can’t visit during the spring, don’t worry – there’s another event at the garden when the autumn roses are at their best.

Spring Rose Festa
2023-05-13 09:00 - 2023-06-04 17:00
The Odawara Flower Garden is a stunning location featuring a diverse array of roses. Visitors can explore the garden’s 160 varieties of roses spread across approximately 360 rose bushes. During peak blooming season, the Spring Rose Festa is held, offering free admission to visitors. The festival features a range of activities such as flower-themed workshops, sales of rose seedlings, and other souvenirs for purchase. The workshops primarily take place on weekends.
Whether you’re a rose enthusiast or simply enjoy beautiful destinations during the spring season, the Spring Rose Festa is an event that is definitely worth checking out. The festival provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the rose garden while participating in fun activities and taking home some lovely souvenirs.

Tokyo Tea Fair
2023-05-14 11:00 - 2023-05-28 17:00
The Tokyo Tea Fair, which will be held at Nihonbashi’s Menshō Kaikan exhibition venue, aims to showcase the diverse appeal of Japanese tea under the theme of “Japanese tea, new discoveries.” The event will feature a variety of tasting and product sales booths, where attendees can sample and compare different tea types. Additionally, there will be various workshop booths for visitors to learn more about tea, and even a booth where tea enthusiasts can connect over their shared interest.
Tea purveyors from several regions in Japan, including Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Kochi, Kyoto, Shizuoka, and Saitama, will be represented at the event, offering a wide range of tea types such as sencha, hojicha, and gyokuro. Tasting tickets can be purchased in advance for ¥1000 or on the day for ¥1300, which includes five tea tastings. Experience booths range from ¥1500 to ¥2800 depending on the selected option. Tickets for both tastings and experiences can be purchased online.
Chiran Farm, a tea company from Kagoshima, is one of the many vendors that will be participating in the event. The Tokyo Tea Fair is a great opportunity for tea lovers to explore the rich and diverse world of Japanese tea while enjoying a unique and educational experience.

Sapporo Ramen Show
2023-05-15 10:00 - 2023-05-28 21:00
The Sapporo Ramen Show in Hokkaido is a must-visit event for noodle lovers and foodies alike. This annual festival showcases some of the best ramen dishes from all over Japan, featuring rich tonkotsu broths, flavorful miso varieties, and much more. With ten different vendors available during each session, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. The ramen show is split into two sessions, with the first half running from May 15th until May 21st, and the second half running from May 23rd until May 28th. Check out the official event website for a sneak peek at the vendors and dishes that will be available. Don’t miss this chance to slurp your way through some of the best ramen in the country!

Yono Park Rose Festival
2023-05-20 09:00 - 2023-05-21 17:00
Yono Park, located in Saitama, Japan, has been open to the public since 1878. The park is a popular destination for visitors during spring when the roses are in bloom. The park boasts around 200 varieties of roses, making it a delightful spot for rose enthusiasts. Every year, during the peak blooming period, the park holds an annual festival, which includes stage performances, the sale of rose saplings, and various food and drink options.
For those who are unable to visit the park during the rose blooming season (which typically occurs in May), the park is also a popular location to view cherry blossoms earlier in the year.
Overall, Yono Park is a beautiful place to visit year-round, but especially during the spring when the park’s colorful flowers are in full bloom. The park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and visitors can enjoy strolling through its picturesque grounds while taking in the sights and fragrances of its many flowers.

Italia Amore Mio
2023-05-20 10:00 - 2023-05-21 20:00
Italia Amore Mio is the largest Italian festival in Japan, supported by the Italian Chamber of Commerce. This year’s event features a live performance by Italian indie-pop hip hop duo Coma Cose, authentic Italian food and wine for purchase, cooking demonstrations by guest chefs, and more. You can check out previous events to get a sense of what to expect on the official website. There is no entry fee for the event, but remember to bring yen if you plan on buying food or drinks.

Toyosu Plant Festival
2023-05-20 11:00 - 2023-05-21 16:00
The Toyosu Plant Festival is a great event to attend if you have an interest in gardening or would like to develop one. This two-day festival offers a variety of enjoyable activities such as plant-themed workshops, hands-on craft activities including dried flower wreath making, and nature-inspired games.
One of the highlights of the festival is the release of the book “Maki no Maki Letter,” which tells the story of Tomitaro Makino, a renowned Japanese botanist often referred to as the Father of Japanese Botany. Makino was responsible for the classification of over 50,000 plant specimens from all over Japan. The book sheds light on Makino’s life and contributions to the field of botany in Japan.
Attending the Toyosu Plant Festival can be a fun and educational experience for all ages. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this event.

Ikebukuro Mensore Festival
2023-05-21 10:10 - 2023-05-28 13:00
Okinawan culture is a rich and diverse tapestry woven from a blend of influences from different Asian and Southeast Asian cultures. It encompasses a wide array of traditions, customs, arts, music, dance forms, and cuisine that quickly captivate visitors to the prefecture. While not everyone can make the journey to Okinawa, there is an opportunity to experience the charm of Okinawa right in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo. The Sunshine City Okinawa Mensore Festival, held this May, showcases various aspects of Okinawan culture in a delightful manner.
At the festival, attendees can indulge in the flavors of Okinawa at the Mensore Beer Terrace. Sipping on a cold Orion beer, visitors can sample a range of authentic Okinawan foods. This provides a wonderful opportunity to savor the unique and delicious cuisine of the region. From savory dishes to delectable sweets, Okinawan cuisine offers a distinct culinary experience that is sure to please the taste buds of festival-goers.
In addition to the gastronomic delights, the festival also features live performances that highlight the traditional arts of Okinawa. One such performance is the mesmerizing Eisa dance display. Eisa is a vibrant and energetic dance form that is an integral part of Okinawan culture. Festival attendees can witness the beauty and dynamism of Eisa as performers showcase their skills and entertain the audience with their captivating movements and rhythmic drumming.
The best part is that the festival itself is free to attend, allowing everyone to immerse themselves in the allure of Okinawan culture without any entry fee. However, if you plan on enjoying the culinary offerings at the Mensore Beer Terrace or purchasing drinks, it is advisable to bring yen (the currency of Japan) with you.
The Sunshine City Okinawa Mensore Festival in Ikebukuro offers a wonderful opportunity to experience and appreciate the vibrant culture of Okinawa. So, if you’re unable to make the trip to Okinawa itself, this festival provides a fantastic alternative right in the heart of Tokyo.

Firefly Viewing at Okawa Onsen Takegasawa Park
2023-05-25 19:30 - 2023-06-04 21:00
Okawa Onsen Takegasawa Park in Shizuoka Prefecture is a great place to appreciate the bioluminescent glow of fireflies during early summer. The annual firefly viewing event takes place from late May to early June, and visitors can also enjoy food booths, local produce sales, and toy sales during the event. The park is usually free to enter, but during the firefly period, there is an entry fee of ¥300, which goes towards preserving the firefly’s habitat. It’s a great opportunity to support a worthy cause while experiencing the beauty of these magical insects.

Shimokita Railway Festival
2023-05-27 - 2023-05-28
Trains hold great importance in Japanese culture, which is reflected in the numerous railway-themed events, museums, and tourist attractions throughout the country. One such event is the Shimokita Railway Festival, taking place in Tokyo this May. The festival’s concept is “a cultural festival that you can enjoy with all five senses,” and it will be held along a 1.7-kilometer route that connects three train stations: Setagaya-Daita Station, Shimokitazawa Station, and Higashi-Kitazawa Station.
The Shimokita Railway Festival will offer a wide variety of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy, including a free petting zoo located outside Shimokitazawa Station, a range of food booths, handicrafts for sale, and more. Admission to the event is free, but if you plan on making a purchase, be sure to bring some yen.

Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival
2023-05-27 09:30 - 2023-06-10 13:40
The Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival is an annual event held on the second Saturday of June, dedicated to the worship of Sozen-sama, the guardian deity of horses. This vibrant festival showcases the participation of around 100 horses that embark on a 14-kilometer journey from Onikoshi Sozen Shrine in Takizawa City to Hachimangu Shrine in Morioka City.
The horses play a central role in the festival, adorned in elaborate costumes that include bells. As they trot along the designated route, the jingling sounds produced by these bells create a delightful and harmonious atmosphere. In fact, the jingling sounds of the horses have gained recognition and have been included on the prestigious 100 Soundscapes of Japan list.
The festival begins with a departure from Onikoshi Sozen Shrine at 9:30 am, and it is expected that the procession will arrive at Hachimangu Shrine around 1:45 pm. This journey provides a captivating sight as the horses, guided by their handlers, make their way from one shrine to another, attracting the attention and admiration of spectators along the route.
The Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage and reverence for horses in the region. It celebrates the bond between humans and these magnificent animals, while also honoring the guardian deity Sozen-sama. The festival is a colorful and joyous occasion that brings together locals and visitors alike to appreciate the beauty and significance of this traditional event.
If you have the chance to attend the Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival, you can expect to witness a remarkable procession of adorned horses, experience the enchanting sound of their bells, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this cherished celebration.

Nagaoka Flower Fair
2023-05-27 10:00 - 2023-05-28 16:00
The Nagaoka Flower Fair has been running for more than 30 years, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to admire the colorful blooms of spring. Visitors can see around 20,000 flowers, including pansies, snapdragons, and delphiniums, all grown from seeds by local citizens. In addition to enjoying the gorgeous flowers, the fair offers the chance to purchase flower seedlings, gardening goods, and food and drinks from food trucks on-site. Admission to the event is free, but bring cash if you plan on buying anything.
