Festivals Hatsumode in Asakusa 2025 Early Jan The first visit to the shrine in the new year is called Hatsumode, and it attracts quite some crowds every year, and I think it is a great way to start
Culture Matsushima Oyster Festival 2024-2025 Late Oct - Mid Mar The Matsushima Oyster Festival (Kaki Matsuri) started over 40 years ago, and takes place in the peak of oyster season.
8 Gardens & Parks Inokashira Park Cherry Blossom Kevin John Hutt Situated close to Kichijoji Station, the park is popular all-year round, especially during Spring to see the cherry blossoms and party.
12 Museums Hakone's Wonderful Open-Air Museum Larry Knipfing If you've got half a day free and will be in the Hakone area, this open-air museum is a must-see.
Museums Tokaido Tale Chris Glenn During the Edo Period, the most important route between Edo and the capital... , Kyoto and near by Osaka was the Tokaido This was THE information highway
18 Culture Worth a Michelangelo Alena Eckelmann Finding a treasure trove for beautiful frescos, statues and carved ceilings crafted by Ishikawa Uncho, also known as the "Michelangelo of Echigo"
15 Gardens & Parks Tobaru Park's Big Slide in Chatan Michael Flemming above the ocean.Tobaru Park is a mixed use recreational area with jogging and... hiking trails, wide open grassy areas and lots of athletic courts a fields
26 Festivals Aoba Festival Parade Laura Welch One of the main events is the parade, filled with movement, color and music.