Events & Festivals in Japan 2027

Izu Shaboten Zoo Capybara Onsen 2026-27: Dates & Bath Times

The Capybara Outdoor Bath at Izu Shaboten Zoo (Ito, Shizuoka) runs from 21 November 2026 to 4 April 2027. Bath time is 13:30-14:30 on weekdays, and 10:30-11:30 plus 13:30-14:30 at weekends, on public holidays and in set periods (official site, checked 2026-09-23). No yuzu-bath dates yet.

Sat, Nov 21, 2026 10:30 JST Across JapanAdmission is 2,800 yen for adults (junior-high age and over), 1,400 yen for elementary-school children and 700 yen for children aged 4 and over on weekdays; 3,000 / 1,500 / 800 yen at weekends, on public holidays and during school breaks (official site, checked 2026-09-23). The official pages do not say whether the bath is included in admission or charged separately.

Exhibitions & Expos

Jump Festa 2027

Shueisha's free mega anime-and-manga festival packs Makuhari Messe with Shonen Jump stages, exclusive reveals, voice-actor events and rare merch.

Sat, Dec 19, 2026 09:00 JST TokyoFree

Seasonal

USJ Countdown 2027: Dec 31 7pm–Jan 1 9pm, ¥16,900 PARTY PASS, General Sale Nov 4

Universal Studios Japan's NO LIMIT! COUNTDOWN 2027 runs Dec 31, 2026 7:00 p.m. to Jan 1, 2027 9:00 p.m. A PARTY PASS costs ¥16,900 (all ages); general sale opens about 21:00 JST on Nov 4. Day guests must leave by 5 p.m. on Dec 31.

Thu, Dec 31, 2026 19:00 JST OsakaPARTY PASS ¥16,900 incl. tax (all ages; 3 and under free); fireworks viewing-area packages ¥23,800–24,300; dinner packages ¥32,800–61,900; VIP tours from ¥348,500

Festivals

Fushimi Inari Hatsumode 2027: New Year Rites, Parking Closure and Access

Fushimi Inari hatsumode 2027: entry free, New Year rite at 6:00 on 1 January; press and guide sites say the grounds are open around the clock. The car park closes 30 Dec-6 Jan; take JR to Inari or Keihan to Fushimi-Inari.

Thu, Dec 31, 2026 23:00 JST KyotoFree

Festivals

Kawasaki Daishi Hatsumode 2027: 0:00 Goma Rite, Road Closures and Access

Hatsumode 2027 at Kawasaki Daishi: the New Year traditionally opens with the 0:00 goma rite on 1 January. Nearby roads close to cars at set hours on 1-3 Jan, so take the Keikyu Daishi Line; entry is free.

Fri, Jan 1, 2027Free

Sports

Hakone Ekiden 2027 (103rd) — Sat 2 & Sun 3 Jan: Teams, Course & When to Watch Each Stage

Hakone Ekiden 2027, the 103rd race, runs Sat 2 Jan (Tokyo to Lake Ashi) and Sun 3 Jan 2027 (back to Otemachi) over 217.1 km, watched from the roadside with no paid seats listed. Seeded teams, the 17 Oct qualifier and relay-station times from the 2026 results.

Sat, Jan 2, 2027 09:00 JST TokyoWatched from the roadside; the organisers' spectator page lists no sign-up and no paid seating (checked 2026-10-13).

Festivals

Imperial Palace New Year Greeting 2027: Sat 2 Jan in Tokyo, Last Year's Times, Gates and Bag Check

The New Year Greeting at Tokyo's Imperial Palace is held every 2 January, a Saturday in 2027. In 2026 visitors entered via the Main Gate (Nijubashi) from 9:30 a.m. to 2:10 p.m., free and without registration, for five balcony appearances.

Sat, Jan 2, 2027 TokyoFree

Festivals

Imamiya Ebisu Toka Ebisu 2027

Around a million people pack Osaka's Imamiya Ebisu Shrine over January 9-11 to pray to 'Ebessan', the god of business prosperity - collecting a lucky fukuzasa bamboo branch from kimono-clad 'fuku-musume' maidens to the chant 'come with your bamboo for a thriving business'.

Sat, Jan 9, 2027 09:00 JST OsakaFree

Seasonal

Atami Plum Garden Festival (Atami Bairin)

Famous as Japan's earliest-blooming plum grove, Atami Bairin opens its winter ume from early January with taiko, geisha dances and hot-spring charm.

Sat, Jan 9, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanModest garden admission during the festival (recent years a few hundred yen).

Festivals

Fukuotoko Erabi 2027: Jan 10, 6:00 a.m. Gate Dash at Nishinomiya Shrine, Lottery and Access

Fukuotoko Erabi 2027 starts at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 10, 2027, at Nishinomiya Shrine in Hyogo. Runners dash about 230 m from the Red Gate to the main hall, front-row spots are drawn by lottery, and no fee is listed. Toka Ebisu runs January 9 to 11.

Sun, Jan 10, 2027 06:00 JST OsakaNo entry or viewing fee is listed on the official site (checked 2026-10-13). Front-row starting spots are allocated by lottery. The 2027 lottery time and numbers are not announced yet.

Sports

Grand Sumo Hatsu Basho 2027 Tokyo | Jan 10–24, Tickets on Sale Dec 5

Grand Sumo Hatsu Basho 2027 runs January 10–24, 2027 at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo. Advance tickets go on sale Saturday 5 December 2026. Arrive by ~14:00–15:00 for the top-division bouts.

Sun, Jan 10, 2027 08:00 JST TokyoTickets required (no free entry). Prices vary by day and seat tier; 2027 prices are released with the tournament — confirm on sumo.or.jp. As a rough guide (approximate 2026 prices, as of July 2026): ringside tamari-seki ~¥20,000/person; masu-seki tatami boxes ~¥9,000–15,000/person by tier and day; Western chair seats from ~¥3,500 (tier C, weekday) up to ~¥11,000+ (SS). On-sale is typically 5–8 weeks before — check the official site for the exact 2027 date.

Exhibitions & Expos

Tokyo Auto Salon 2027

Tokyo Auto Salon 2027 runs Jan 15–17, 2027 at Makuhari Messe. Digital advance tickets are on sale from Oct 1: ¥3,000 Sat/Sun, ¥4,000 for Friday's 2–7 pm public session.

Fri, Jan 15, 2027 09:00 JST TokyoDigital tickets only (sold in advance, date-specific): ¥4,000 for Friday's public session, ¥3,000 for Saturday or Sunday (tax incl.). Elementary-school age and younger free with a guardian.

Festivals

Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival 2027: Friday, January 15 — Times, Who Can Watch, Access

Every January 15 — a Friday night in 2027. In 2026 the fire battle around the shrine began at about 8:30 pm and ran to about 10 pm, and entry was by admission ticket, issued only to residents and guests staying in the village (checked 2026-10-13).

Fri, Jan 15, 2027 19:00 JST Across JapanIn 2026, admission was restricted to admission ticket holders, and tickets were issued only to residents of Nozawa Onsen Village and guests staying in the village (ask your lodging). No price is stated by the organisers. 2027 viewing rules not yet announced (checked 2026-10-13).

Outdoor

Ito Orange Beach Marathon 2027 — Sun 17 Jan, 2 km / 5 km / 10 km along the Izu coast

A flat seaside fun-run in Ito, Shizuoka: Sun 17 Jan 2027, starting and finishing at Ito Orange Beach with 2 km, 5 km and 10 km courses plus a family category. About 2,500 runners; 15 min walk from JR Ito Station.

Sun, Jan 17, 2027 08:00 JST Across JapanEntry fees vary by distance; 2027 fees and the entry window were not yet posted when checked (see Ito City's official page). Free to watch.

Festivals

Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival 2027: 23 Jan–7 Mar (52nd)

The 52nd Sounkyo Onsen Ice Waterfall Festival runs 23 January to 7 March 2027 (official). In a Daisetsuzan gorge, ice domes and towers fill a riverside field, lit nightly in shifting colors with weekend fireworks over the snow.

Sat, Jan 23, 2027 Across JapanThe cooperation fee for 2027 (52nd edition) has not been announced as of 2026-09-18. For the 51st edition in 2026 it was ¥1,000, with the site open 17:00–21:30 on weekdays and 11:00–21:30 at weekends and on holidays (last entry 21:15).

Food & Drink

Ito Onsen Mechakucha Market 2027 — 23–24 Jan, bargain dried fish and Izu produce by the Matsukawa river

Ito's once-a-year bargain market: Sat 23 Jan 2027 9:00–16:00 and Sun 24 Jan 9:00–15:00 at Matsukawa Fuji-no-Hiroba, selling Izu seafood, dried fish and farm produce at 'ridiculous' prices. 10 min walk from JR Ito Station.

Sat, Jan 23, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFree

Seasonal

Wakakusa Yamayaki 2027 — Sat 23 Jan: fireworks 6:15 pm, hill lit 6:30 pm, where to watch

Wakakusa Yamayaki 2027 is on Saturday 23 January 2027 in Nara Park: fireworks at 6:15 pm, then the whole of Mt. Wakakusa is lit at 6:30 pm. Watching from the park lawns is free; paid-area ticket prices will be announced in early November (checked 2026-10-13). No rain date.

Sat, Jan 23, 2027 17:00 JST NaraFree

Seasonal

Kobe Luminarie 2027 | Dates, Venue & Tickets

Kobe Luminarie 2027 runs Jan 29 (Fri) – Feb 7 (Sun), 2027 — the 32nd edition. You can see the light arches free from the surrounding streets; the special paid zones at Meriken Park need a ticket (advance ¥500 weekday / ¥750 weekend, as of July 2026). All three venues are walkable from Sannomiya Station.

Fri, Jan 29, 2027 18:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival 2027: 30 Jan–23 Feb, Fees

The 2027 Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival runs 30 January to 23 February, open 10:00–20:00 (official). Sculptors spray the clear blue waters of Lake Shikotsu onto frames to build towering turquoise ice domes and tunnels, glowing in jewel tones after dark.

Sat, Jan 30, 2027 10:00 JST SapporoAdmission (cooperation fee): ¥1,000 for junior-high age and over on weekdays, ¥3,000 at weekends and on public holidays; free for elementary-school children and younger (official, as of 2026-09-18)

Festivals

Yoshida Shrine Setsubun Festival 2027

Kyoto's most famous Setsubun rite, where a masked exorcist drives off blue, red and yellow demons in an ancient court ceremony, ringed by 800 food stalls.

Tue, Feb 2, 2027 18:00 JST KyotoFree

Festivals

Naritasan Setsubun-e 2027

Sumo wrestlers and celebrity 'lucky men' hurl tonnes of beans from Naritasan's great hall, where the chant is only 'fortune in' — no demons to expel.

Wed, Feb 3, 2027 11:00 JST Across JapanFree

Seasonal

Sapporo Snow Festival 2027: Dates, the Three Sites & How to Get There

Sapporo Snow Festival 2027: confirmed Feb 4–11 dates, the three free sites (Odori, Susukino, Tsudome), and how to get there from New Chitose Airport.

Thu, Feb 4, 2027 10:00 JST SapporoFree

Seasonal

Nagasaki Lantern Festival 2027: Feb 5–21, Emperor's Parade Feb 13 & 20

Nagasaki Lantern Festival 2027 runs Fri 5 – Sun 21 February (17 days) and is free to view. The Emperor's Parade is on Sat 13 & Sat 20 Feb, the Mazu Procession on Sun 7 & Sun 14 Feb, and the dragon dance runs daily, with ~15,000 Chinese lanterns across central Nagasaki.

Fri, Feb 5, 2027 Across JapanFree

Seasonal

Otaru Snow Light Path Festival 2027

The 2027 edition runs 6–13 February (Otaru Tourism Association, announced 9 June 2026). Otaru's historic canal and old rail line glow with thousands of hand-lit snow lanterns and floating candles for eight winter nights.

Sat, Feb 6, 2027 SapporoFree

Festivals

Asahikawa Winter Festival 2027: 6–11 February (68th)

The 68th Asahikawa Winter Festival runs 6–11 February 2027 (official). Hokkaido's second-biggest snow fest pairs colossal stage-sized snow sculptures by the Ishikari River with an international ice-carving championship.

Sat, Feb 6, 2027 SapporoFree

Seasonal

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival 2027

Dates for the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival 2027 had not been announced as of September 18, 2026. The 2026 edition (the 36th) ran February 7 to March 8, a 3-minute walk from Kawazu Station in Izu.

Sat, Feb 6, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFree

International Exchange

One World Festival

Western Japan's biggest international cooperation festival: NGO booths, world food stalls and global music fill the Umeda Sky Building, free to all.

Sat, Feb 6, 2027 10:00 JST OsakaFree

Exhibitions & Expos

Wonder Festival 2027 [Winter]

The world's biggest garage-kit and figure fair fills Makuhari Messe with thousands of hand-built model figures sold for one day only by amateur and pro sculptors.

Sun, Feb 7, 2027 10:00 JST TokyoAdmission ticket required (~¥2,000–2,500); 'one-day license' allows licensed-figure sales.

Festivals

Yokote Kamakura Festival 2027: 12–13 February

Hundreds of candlelit snow igloos glow across Yokote while children inside invite passersby in for sweet sake — plus 4,000 mini-kamakura lighting the riverbed.

Fri, Feb 12, 2027 Across JapanFree

Exhibitions & Expos

Osaka Auto Messe 2027: 12–14 February at INTEX Osaka — Hours, Tickets & Access

Osaka Auto Messe 2027 runs Fri 12 – Sun 14 February 2027 at INTEX Osaka, 9:00–18:00. Tickets are planned to go on sale in December 2026; prices are not yet announced (a 2026 advance general ticket was ¥3,000).

Fri, Feb 12, 2027 09:00 JST Osaka2027 prices not yet announced; tickets planned to go on sale in December 2026. 2026 show: general ¥3,000 advance / ¥3,500 on the day; U-22 ¥2,000 / ¥2,500; visitors with a disability certificate ¥2,000 / ¥2,500 (one carer free). Each general ticket admitted one child of junior-high age or younger free with a guardian (tax included; checked 2026-10-13).

Festivals

Namahage Sedo Festival 2027: 12–14 Feb, Shinzan Shrine

Demon-masked 'namahage' brandishing torches stampede down a snowy mountainside at Shinzan Shrine in a fierce, firelit Oga winter spectacle.

Fri, Feb 12, 2027 18:00 JST Across JapanFree

Seasonal

Mito Plum Blossom Festival (Kairakuen)

Roughly 3,000 plum trees in over 60 varieties scent one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, drawing crowds for taiko, tea ceremony and geisha dances.

Sat, Feb 13, 2027 08:00 JST Across Japan2026: Kairakuen inner garden ¥320, Kodokan ¥420 for adults (Ibaraki residents also pay during the festival). Kairakuen's current fee table lists ¥500 for adults in the festival period; check 2027 prices on the official site.

Festivals

Mount Omuro Yamayaki 2027 — Sun 14 Feb (planned): the 700-year-old burning of Izu Kogen's grass volcano

Every February the whole of Mount Omuro (580 m) above Izu Kogen is set alight. 2027: Sunday 14 February (planned) — ten signal fireworks at noon, then about 40 minutes of flames racing to the summit. Rain or wind pushes it to the next week.

Sun, Feb 14, 2027 12:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Hachinohe Enburi 2027: 17–20 February Schedule

Every February 17-20, dozens of Enburi troupes dance through Hachinohe in tall black eboshi hats to summon an early spring and good harvest - a roughly 800-year-old rite tracing to the Kamakura era, now a national Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

Wed, Feb 17, 2027 07:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Tokamachi Snow Festival 2027: 19–21 February (78th Edition)

The Tokamachi Snow Festival 2027 (78th edition) runs Friday 19 to Sunday 21 February 2027 across Tokamachi, Niigata. Hours, fireworks and prices are due around December 2026; in 2026 it ran Friday 18:00 to Sunday 15:00.

Fri, Feb 19, 2027 09:00 JST Across Japan2027 prices not announced yet (details due around December 2026; checked 2026-10-13). In 2026 the paid items were limited ones such as the loop bus (¥500, free for junior-high students and younger) and the WEST Snow Park (¥500); free shuttle buses ran.

Festivals

All-Japan Pillow Fight Championship in Ito Onsen 2027 — 20–21 Feb (planned), official rules, team format and entry fee

Ito's annual All-Japan Pillow Fight Championship at the Ito Municipal Gymnasium. The tourist association's calendar lists Sat 20 – Sun 21 Feb 2027, but the 15th edition's official guidelines are not yet published (as of 2026-09-13). From the 14th edition's official rulebook: eight per team (general, libero, three attackers, three support), three 2-minute sets, yukata compulsory, entry fee 5,000 yen per team.

Sat, Feb 20, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanEntry for the open division was 5,000 yen per team including accident insurance (14th edition guidelines). The fee for the 15th edition has not been announced. The defending champions enter free.

Festivals

Saidaiji Eyo (Naked Festival)

Thousands of loincloth-clad men pack a freezing temple hall at midnight, surging to seize two sacred shingi sticks flung into the throng — one of Japan's wildest rites.

Sat, Feb 20, 2027 22:00 JST Across JapanFree

Sports

Kitakyushu Marathon 2027 — Feb 21 Race, Lottery Results Oct 16 & Entry Fees

Kitakyushu Marathon 2027 is on Sunday, February 21, 2027, starting 9:00 a.m. at Kitakyushu City Hall. Marathon entry is ¥15,500 (the ¥20,000 overseas quota has closed); every race was oversubscribed and lottery results come out October 16 at 10:00 JST (checked 2026-10-13).

Sun, Feb 21, 2027 09:00 JST FukuokaMarathon ¥15,500 (Japan entry) / ¥20,000 (overseas entry site); pair relay ¥29,000 per pair; 20.7 km ¥14,500; fun run ¥5,000 adults / ¥1,500 high-school age and under. Handling fees are extra; the official T-shirt is an optional +¥2,000.

Sports

Kumamoto Castle Marathon 2027: Feb 21 Race, Lottery Results Oct 15

Kumamoto Castle Marathon 2027 starts at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, Feb 21, 2027, finishing at Kumamoto Castle. The full marathon costs ¥14,575 (Japan) or ¥22,800 (overseas). Lottery results: Oct 15; payment deadline: Oct 29. Check-in, the overseas slot and race-day traffic are covered too.

Sun, Feb 21, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFull marathon ¥13,750 + ¥825 = ¥14,575 (Japan) / ¥20,000 + ¥2,800 = ¥22,800 (overseas); 30 km ¥5,830; Fun Run ¥3,740 (all incl. payment fee).

Sports

Kyoto Marathon 2027

Kyoto Marathon 2027 runs on Sunday, February 21, 2027, starting at Takebishi Stadium Kyoto in Nishikyogoku at 9:00 a.m. and finishing in front of Heian-jingu Shrine, with a field of 16,000.

Sun, Feb 21, 2027 09:00 JST KyotoMarathon entry ¥18,500 (Kyoto residents) / ¥19,500 (other domestic) / ¥35,000 (overseas); pair-ekiden ¥34,000/pair; wheelchair race ¥3,000. Spectating is free. (Fees per the official race guidelines, as of September 18, 2026.)

Sports

Ome Marathon 2027 (59th): Sun Feb 21 — 30 km 11:30, 10 km 9:30, Entry Until Nov 3, Cut-offs

Ome Marathon 2027 is on Sunday, February 21, 2027, in Ome, western Tokyo: 10 km at 9:30, 30 km at 11:30 (fee ¥12,000). General entry closes Nov 3 or when full; the 10 km general quota is already full, so only charity, hometown-tax or hotel-package places remain for it (checked 2026-10-14).

Sun, Feb 21, 2027 09:30 JST TokyoEntry: 30 km ¥12,000, 10 km ¥6,000 (high-school students ¥3,000). Charity Premium Entry: 30 km ¥40,000, 10 km ¥30,000. Hometown-tax quota: donation of ¥46,000+ (30 km) or ¥25,000+ (10 km). No cancellations or refunds. Watching from the roadside is free.

Sports

Osaka Marathon 2027: Sun Feb 28 — Entry, Lottery & Race-Day Guide

Osaka Marathon 2027 runs on Sunday 28 February 2027. General entry closes at 17:00 on 28 August 2026 and lottery results are emailed on 28 September. The ¥16,000 fee is not the final bill — an admin charge and a compulsory charity donation take it to about ¥18,000. Caps, eligibility and race-number collection, straight from the race guidelines.

Sun, Feb 28, 2027 09:00 JST OsakaAn individual general entry costs ¥16,000 in Japan / US$145 from overseas. On top of the entry fee you must also pay an administration charge (6.0% of the settled amount for domestic entries) and a compulsory charity donation of at least two units (¥500 each in Japan), so a domestic individual entry actually comes to roughly ¥18,000. Watching from the roadside is free. (Race guidelines, as of 16 August 2026.)

Seasonal

Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival / Girls' Day)

On March 3 across Japan, families display tiered hina dolls of the Heian court to wish for girls' health, amid peach blossoms and sweet hishi-mochi.

Wed, Mar 3, 2027 Across JapanFree

Sports

Tokyo Marathon 2027 — March 7, Ballot Results & Volunteer Entry

Tokyo Marathon 2027 is Sunday, March 7, 2027: a 9:10 a.m. start at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and a finish on Gyoko-dori by Tokyo Station. The runner ballot results went out by Sept 18; what is still open is volunteering — Global Volunteers apply Nov 4–23 (JST). Checked 2026-10-14.

Sun, Mar 7, 2027 09:10 JST TokyoFree

Exhibitions & Expos

Art Fair Tokyo 2027

Japan's leading art fair, spanning antiques to cutting-edge contemporary across 150-plus galleries in the heart of Marunouchi.

Fri, Mar 12, 2027 11:00 JST TokyoPaid admission ticket (around ¥3,000 in recent editions); the day before public opening is an invitation-only preview.

Sports

Shizuoka Marathon 2027: Sunday, March 14. Sold Out? Entry Options, Fees and Course

Shizuoka Marathon 2027 runs on Sunday, March 14, 2027, from Shizuoka City Hall (8:20 a.m.) to JR Shimizu Station. The overseas fee is ¥23,000. The 13,000 places sold out on Oct 2, and the Yuzureru bib transfer runs until Nov 14 (checked 2026-10-13).

Sun, Mar 14, 2027 08:20 JST Across JapanMarathon ¥16,000 (Japan residents) / ¥23,000 (overseas residents); Fun Run ¥4,000; Wheelchair ¥2,000; Parent & Child Run ¥2,000 (official guidelines, checked 2026-10-13)

Sports

Grand Sumo Haru Basho 2027 (Osaka): Mar 14–28, Tickets Feb 6, New Prices

**Osaka's 2027 Grand Sumo tournament, the Haru Basho, runs March 14–28 at EDION Arena Osaka, and advance tickets go on sale Saturday, February 6, 2027.** Prices rose for 2027: regular chair seats from ¥4,000, regular masu from ¥9,500 per person, sold by the whole box (JSA price list, checked 2026-10-13).

Sun, Mar 14, 2027 08:30 JST OsakaNew prices from the January 2027 tournament (Osaka, per person, tax included; Japan Sumo Association admission price list, checked 2026-10-13): tamari ringside ¥20,000; masu S ¥17,000; masu A ¥15,000 (weekend & holiday) / ¥14,000 (weekday); masu B ¥12,500 / ¥11,500; masu C ¥10,500 / ¥9,500; two-person masu with table ¥13,000; chair SS ¥13,000; chair S ¥11,000 / ¥10,000; chair A ¥8,000 / ¥7,500; chair B ¥6,500 / ¥6,000; chair C ¥5,500 / ¥5,000; chair D ¥4,000; wheelchair space ¥5,000. Masu are sold by the whole box (e.g. a 4-person Masu C box on a weekday: ¥9,500 × 4 = ¥38,000). Fees are extra (¥2,000 per ticket on the English Ticket Oosumo site at the November 2026 sale). Same-day tickets only if advance tickets remain.

Sports

Nagoya Women's Marathon 2027 — March 14 Race, Lottery Results Out & Overseas Entry to Dec 25

Nagoya Women's Marathon 2027 starts at 9:10 a.m. JST on Sunday, March 14, 2027, from Vantelin Dome Nagoya. The domestic lottery results came out on October 2; overseas runners can still enter first come, first served until December 25 (¥25,000). Every finisher gets a Baccarat tumbler (checked 2026-10-14).

Sun, Mar 14, 2027 09:10 JST NagoyaOverseas entry ¥25,000 (first come, until Dec 25, 2026); domestic general lottery ¥19,000 (closed); Elite ¥19,000 (from Dec 1). Administrative fee extra. Spectating is free.

Seasonal

Chidorigafuchi Cherry Blossoms

A 700m 'sakura tunnel' of 260-plus cherry trees arches over the Imperial Palace moat, best seen by rowboat or under evening illumination.

Thu, Mar 25, 2027 TokyoFree

Seasonal

Himeji Castle Cherry Blossoms

Over 1,000 cherry trees frame the brilliant white 'White Heron' castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in one of Japan's most picture-perfect hanami scenes.

Sat, Mar 27, 2027 OsakaFree

Seasonal

Mount Yoshino Cherry Blossoms (Yoshinoyama)

Around 30,000 cherry trees in 200 varieties blanket a sacred mountainside, blooming in waves up four zones from Shimo to Oku Senbon.

Sat, Mar 27, 2027 NaraFree

Exhibitions & Expos

AnimeJapan 2027 (Osaka)

The world's largest anime expo leaves Tokyo for the first time and brings its public days to Intex Osaka.

Sat, Mar 27, 2027 10:00 JST OsakaPaid admission; ticket prices for the 2027 Osaka edition to be announced on the official site.

Festivals

Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival 2027

Japan's hot-spring capital throws its biggest party of the year — a fire festival on Mount Ogi, free baths across the city and a mikoshi parade thanking the springs.

Thu, Apr 1, 2027 11:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Shingen-ko Festival 2027: April 2027, Dates Still To Be Announced

The 53rd Shingen-ko Festival is expected in Kofu in April 2027, but the exact dates are still unannounced as of September 2026. Casting is set: actor Maki Miya as Takeda Shingen — only the third woman in the role — and opera singer Kohei Yamamoto as Yamamoto Kansuke.

Fri, Apr 2, 2027 12:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Inuyama Festival 2027 (Inuyama Castle Town, Aichi)

Dates for Inuyama Festival 2027 had not been announced as of September 18, 2026. The festival falls on the first Saturday and Sunday of April, which points to April 3-4, 2027.

Sat, Apr 3, 2027 08:00 JST NagoyaFree

Nightlife

GMO SONIC 2027

A major indoor EDM festival (past headliners include Swedish House Mafia and Marshmello), confirmed for April 2027 at Saitama Super Arena.

Sat, Apr 3, 2027 11:00 JST TokyoTickets & lineup TBA on the official site

Festivals

Kanamara Matsuri 2027 (Kawasaki): expected Sunday 4 April, venue and access

Kanamara Matsuri 2027 is expected on Sunday 4 April 2027, the first Sunday of April, at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki; official dates are not yet announced (checked 11 Oct 2026).

Sun, Apr 4, 2027 10:00 JST Across JapanFree

Sports

Japanese Grand Prix 2027 at Suzuka: 9–11 April, Japan’s First F1 Sprint, Tickets on Sale 15 Nov

The 2027 Japanese Grand Prix runs Friday 9 – Sunday 11 April at Suzuka Circuit and hosts Japan’s first-ever F1 Sprint. Tickets go on sale on 15 November 2026 at 11:00 JST on the circuit’s MobilityStation site; the West Area ticket costs ¥22,000 for an adult.

Fri, Apr 9, 2027 09:00 JST NagoyaOfficial 2027 prices, tax included: West Area ticket ¥22,000 adult / ¥11,000 U23 / ¥6,000 child / ¥4,200 age 3 to preschool; standard reserved seats from ¥24,000 (G, adult) to ¥120,000 and up (V2), restricted-view Ultra Outlet seats from ¥23,000 (D-1/D-2, adult); Ferris Wheel Lounge ¥600,000; Paddock Club ¥1,200,000. Thursday & Friday ticket from ¥11,000 and Thursday ticket from ¥6,800 (adult; details TBA). On sale 15 Nov 2026, 11:00 JST (checked 2026-10-14).

Seasonal

Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival 2027

One of Japan's earliest big fireworks of the year — around 10,000 shells choreographed to live music over the East China Sea off Ginowan.

Sat, Apr 10, 2027 18:30 JST OkinawaTicketed reserved seating in tiers; a free viewing area is also available. Exact 2027 date confirmed in winter.

Festivals

Takayama Spring Festival (Sanno Matsuri)

Twelve ornate Edo-era yatai floats with karakuri puppets parade through old Takayama, glowing with around 100 lanterns each at the night festival.

Wed, Apr 14, 2027 09:00 JST NagoyaFree

Seasonal

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival

Around 2,600 cherry trees encircle Hirosaki Castle's moats, famous for petal-carpeted 'flower rafts' and dazzling nighttime illuminations.

Fri, Apr 16, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFree

Food & Drink

Craft Sake Week at Roppongi Hills 2027

Founded by footballer Hidetoshi Nakata, this open-air festival pours around 130 regional breweries' sake in the heart of Roppongi each spring.

Fri, Apr 16, 2027 11:00 JST TokyoPaid: a starter set buys a glass plus tasting tokens; extra tokens sold on site.

International Exchange

Earth Day Tokyo 2027

Tokyo's biggest environmental festival fills Yoyogi Park with eco-food stalls, live music and 300+ booths — zero-waste, English-friendly and free to wander.

Sat, Apr 17, 2027 10:00 JST TokyoFree

Arts & Culture

KYOTOGRAPHIE 2027: Dates, Venues & Passport Tickets

KYOTOGRAPHIE 2027 runs 17 April to 16 May 2027, its 15th edition. The dates are confirmed on the official site; the theme, artist line-up, venue list and 2027 ticket prices are not yet announced. For reference, the 2026 all-venue Passport was ¥5,500 in advance (¥3,000 for students) and single-venue tickets ran ¥800–¥1,500, with under-15s free.

Sat, Apr 17, 2027 10:00 JST Kyoto2027 prices are not yet announced (as of September 2026). For reference, the 2026 edition priced the all-venue Passport at ¥5,500 in advance and ¥5,800 online / ¥6,000 paper during the festival, with a ¥3,000 student Passport; single-venue tickets ran ¥800–¥1,500 (student ¥400–¥800), an Express Passport was ¥15,000, and children under 15 entered free. Some programmes are free.

Festivals

Hida Furukawa Festival 2027

On the night of April 19, hundreds of near-naked men carry a giant drum on a tall wooden tower through Hida-Furukawa while rival neighborhood teams charge in to plant their small drums against it - the wild Okoshi-daiko, heart of a UNESCO-listed festival that also parades nine ornate floats on the 20th.

Mon, Apr 19, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFree

Nightlife

Rainbow Disco Club 2027

A beloved open-air house & techno festival held over Golden Week on a hilltop in Higashi-Izu (next edition dates TBA).

Sat, May 1, 2027 10:00 JST Across JapanMulti-tier passes plus camping/parking (see official site)

Festivals

Seihakusai Dekayama Festival 2027 (Nanao)

Three 12-metre, 20-ton wooden floats — among Japan's largest — are hauled through Nanao's narrow streets.

Mon, May 3, 2027 09:00 JST KanazawaFree

Festivals

Hamamatsu Matsuri 2027 (Kite Festival)

Giant kites duel over the Nakatajima dunes by day; by night, illuminated palace-style floats and brass bands fill downtown Hamamatsu.

Mon, May 3, 2027 10:00 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Hakata Dontaku Port Festival

One of Japan's biggest festivals: around 2 million people watch 750-plus troupes parade with shamoji clappers, flower floats and stage shows over May 3–4.

Mon, May 3, 2027 10:00 JST FukuokaFree

Sports

Grand Sumo May Tournament (Natsu Basho) 2027

The Grand Sumo Natsu Basho (Summer Tournament) runs May 9–23, 2027 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo — a 15-day honbasho, Sunday to Sunday, and one of only three Tokyo tournaments each year. Tickets sell via the official English site sumo.or.jp/EnTicket; arrive around 14:00–15:00 for the top division (the day ends by ~18:00).

Sun, May 9, 2027 08:30 JST TokyoTickets required. Arena chair seats start from around ¥3,000; box (masu) seats and ringside cost more. Purchase via the official Japan Sumo Association ticket site.

Festivals

Sanja Matsuri 2027

Sanja Matsuri 2027 had no announced dates as of September 18, 2026. Asakusa Shrine runs it on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday anchored on the third Saturday of May, which points to May 14-16, 2027.

Fri, May 14, 2027 13:00 JST TokyoFree

Festivals

Sendai Aoba Festival 2027: May 15–16 Dates, Times, Reserved Seats & Access

The Sendai Aoba Festival 2027 (43rd edition) is on May 15 (eve festival) and May 16 (main festival) on Jozenji-dori in central Sendai. Reserved seats cost ¥1,000–5,000, group and SS bookings opened Oct 1, 2026 on a first-come basis (checked 2026-10-13), and individual sales start in March 2027 or later.

Sat, May 15, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanReserved seats (43rd edition, Jozenji-dori, tax incl.): A ¥1,500 (May 15 day) / ¥2,500 (May 15 evening) / ¥4,000 (May 16); B ¥1,000 / ¥2,000 / ¥3,500; SA ¥5,000 and SB ¥4,500 (May 16 only); SS tables ¥8,000–80,000. Group (10+) and SS bookings Oct 1, 2026 – Mar 26, 2027; individual sales from March 2027 or later (checked 2026-10-13).

Festivals

Kanda Matsuri 2027

One of Japan's three great festivals returns in full force: mikoshi processions fill Kanda, Nihonbashi and Akihabara in this 2027 honmatsuri year.

Sat, May 15, 2027 08:00 JST TokyoFree

Nightlife

STAR FESTIVAL 2027

A two-stage open-air house/techno/bass festival with camping in the Kyoto countryside (next edition dates TBA).

Sat, May 15, 2027 10:00 JST KyotoAdvance standing ~¥9,000–10,000; group packs; camping/parking extra

Festivals

Aoi Matsuri 2027: May 15 (Sat), Usual 10:30 Start - Procession Route, Times & Paid Seats

Aoi Matsuri 2027 is on Saturday, May 15. The procession usually leaves the Kyoto Imperial Palace at 10:30, reaches Shimogamo Shrine at 11:40 and Kamigamo Shrine at 15:30; rain moves it to May 16. Paid seats cost ¥5,000-¥20,000 in 2026; 2027 prices are not yet announced.

Sat, May 15, 2027 10:30 JST KyotoPaid seats (2026): Kyoto Gyoen general ¥5,000-¥6,500, Royal Seat ¥18,000-¥20,000; Shimogamo Shrine approach general ¥5,000-¥6,500, Manabi Seat ¥8,500-¥10,500. 2027 prices not yet announced (checked 2026-10-13).

Festivals

Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival)

A 1,400-year-old imperial procession of 500 people in Heian-era robes winds 8km through Kyoto, oxen and ox-carts adorned with hollyhock leaves.

Sat, May 15, 2027 10:30 JST KyotoFree

Anime & Pop

Nipponbashi Street Festa 2027

Osaka's Den Den Town shuts its main street for one of Japan's largest cosplay parades, where thousands of costumed fans flood the otaku district.

Sun, May 16, 2027 11:00 JST OsakaFree

Festivals

Nikko Toshogu Spring Grand Festival 2027 (Thousand-Samurai Procession)

Nikko Toshogu's Spring Grand Festival (Nikko City, Tochigi) is held every year on May 17-18 -- a fixed date because it is a Shinto rite -- which in 2027 falls on Mon May 17 and Tue May 18. Usually, yabusame mounted archery starts at 1pm on the 17th on the Omotesando approach, and the Hyakumono-zoroi Sennin Musha Gyoretsu, a procession of over 1,200 people in 53 roles, sets off at 11am on the 18th for the Otabisho. Watching is free. Confirm the 2027 times on toshogu.jp before you go.

Mon, May 17, 2027 09:00 JST TokyoFree

Festivals

Mikuni Matsuri

One of Hokuriku's three great festivals: six towering 6-metre warrior floats crowned with giant musha-ningyo figures are hauled through old port-town streets.

Wed, May 19, 2027 08:00 JST KanazawaFree

Seasonal

Sapporo Lilac Festival 2027

Some 400 lilac trees burst into bloom in Odori Park, with a lilac wine garden and outdoor music marking the start of the northern spring.

Wed, May 19, 2027 10:00 JST SapporoFree

Exhibitions & Expos

BitSummit 2027 (Indie Game Expo)

Japan's largest indie game festival fills Kyoto's Miyako Messe with playable booths from developers worldwide.

Fri, May 21, 2027 10:00 JST KyotoTicketed (around ¥2,000+ per day, 2026 reference); Day 1 is business-only.

Festivals

Soma Nomaoi 2027

Hundreds of riders in full samurai armour thunder across Fukushima's coast for armoured horse races and a wild scramble to catch sacred flags shot into the sky.

Sat, May 29, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanThe main-day grounds (Hibarigahara) are ticketed for grandstand seating; street processions are free to watch. Exact 2027 dates (last weekend of May) confirmed in advance.

Festivals

Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri 2027

Kanazawa's grandest festival reenacts feudal lord Maeda Toshiie's triumphant entry into the castle, with a costumed warrior procession, tea ceremonies and lantern-lit dances.

Fri, Jun 4, 2027 09:00 JST KanazawaFree

Festivals

Matsukawa Tub Race 2027 — Ito Onsen's summer washtub race, the 400 m course and how to enter (2027 date not yet announced)

Held on the Matsukawa in Ito, Shizuoka since 1956: competitors sit in a one-metre washtub and paddle 400 m from Ideyu Bridge to Fuji-no-Hiroba with a paddle shaped like a rice scoop. The 2026 race was on Sunday 5 July; the 2027 date is not yet announced (as of 2026-09-13).

Sun, Jul 4, 2027 09:00 JST Across JapanFree

Sports

Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho 2027 (IG Arena)

The 2027 Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho runs July 11–25, 2027 at IG Arena (IGアリーナ), Nagoya's new arena that opened in July 2025. It's a 15-day tournament; the top-division bouts run each afternoon and always finish by about 6:00pm. Tickets go on sale roughly 5–8 weeks ahead via the official English site.

Sun, Jul 11, 2027 08:00 JST NagoyaPaid, ticketed. Prices are set per tournament; 2027 figures are released with the Nagoya basho. For scale (approximate 2026 prices, as of July 2026): ringside tamari-seki around ¥20,000 per person; masu-seki tatami boxes about ¥9,000–15,000 per person by tier and day; chair (isu-seki) seats from about ¥3,500 (tier C, weekday) up to ¥11,000+ (SS). Confirm the exact 2027 prices on sumo.or.jp.

Festivals

Hachinohe Sansha Taisai 2027

For five days every July 31-August 4, 27 towering, gold-leafed floats and three shrines' mikoshi processions fill Hachinohe's streets - a 300-year-old harvest-thanksgiving festival and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage that draws over a million visitors.

Sat, Jul 31, 2027 18:00 JST Across JapanFree

Seasonal

Nagaoka Fireworks 2027: Mon Aug 2 & Tue Aug 3 - Ticket Lottery Dates & Hotels

Nagaoka Fireworks 2027 is on Monday, August 2 and Tuesday, August 3, by the Shinano River in Nagaoka, Niigata (fixed every year). Show times are not announced yet (2026: 19:20-21:25 both nights). All seats are paid; in 2026 the ticket lottery opened May 25 and sold out June 17.

Mon, Aug 2, 2027 Across JapanAll seats inside the venue are paid; no free seating, no same-day tickets. 2027 seats, prices and sales dates not yet announced (checked 2026-10-14). In 2026: resident lottery Apr 10-28, general first lottery May 25 12:00 - Jun 8 17:00, sold out Jun 17, official resale from Jul 6 (Japan residents only).

Festivals

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri 2027: Aug 2 (Mon)–7 (Sat) Dates, Seats & Hotels

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri 2027 runs from Monday 2 to Saturday 7 August 2027 in central Aomori City, on its fixed annual dates. 2027 seat prices are not out yet; in 2026 reserved seats cost 4,000 yen (9,500 yen for the 7 August daytime-plus-fireworks set). Checked 2026-10-14.

Mon, Aug 2, 2027 Across Japan2027 seat prices not announced. 2026: 4,000 yen (2–6 Aug and 7 Aug daytime only), 9,500 yen (7 Aug daytime + fireworks set), wheelchair seat 3,200 yen (tax and guidebook included)

Festivals

Anjin Matsuri 2027 — Ito's biggest summer festival and sea fireworks (usually 8–10 Aug; 2027 dates not yet announced)

Ito's largest festival honours William Adams (Miura Anjin): lantern floating on the Matsukawa, a taiko battle, then the sea fireworks on 10 August, the city's founding day. 2027 (81st) dates are not yet announced — this page will update.

Sun, Aug 8, 2027 19:30 JST Across JapanFree

Festivals

Awa Odori 2027 (Tokushima): expected 11–15 August, grandstand tickets and 2026 prices

Awa Odori 2027 in Tokushima is expected on 11–15 August (Wed–Sun), with the outdoor paid arenas on 12–15 August; 2027 is not yet officially announced. In 2026, grandstand seats cost ¥1,000–¥15,000 and the web presale ran 13–21 June (checked 2026-10-14).

Wed, Aug 11, 2027 Across Japan2027 prices not announced. 2026 outdoor paid arenas: C (unreserved) ¥1,000, B ¥2,000, A ¥2,500, S ¥3,000, SS ¥6,000, special seats ¥15,000 (Minami-uchimachi only); advance, tax included, ages 3+. Free to watch in the streets and free arenas.

Sports

Grand Sumo Autumn Tournament (Aki Basho) 2027

The 2027 Grand Sumo Autumn Tournament (Aki Basho) runs Sep 12–26, 2027 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo — 15 straight days of top-division bouts. It's a 2-minute walk from JR Ryogoku Station. Tickets go on sale roughly 5–8 weeks ahead via the official English site; arrive by ~15:00 for the makuuchi stars.

Sun, Sep 12, 2027 08:00 JST TokyoPaid, ticketed. Rough guide (approximate 2026 prices — the 2027 fares are released with each tournament, so confirm on sumo.or.jp; as of July 2026): ringside tamari-seki around ¥20,000/person; masu-seki tatami boxes about ¥9,000–15,000/person by tier and day; Western chair (isu-seki) seats from about ¥3,500 (tier C, weekday) up to ¥11,000+ (tier SS). A limited number of same-day chair tickets (tojitsu-ken) are sold at the box office each morning, first-come.

Sports

Grand Sumo Kyushu Basho 2027 (Fukuoka Tournament)

**Grand Sumo's Kyushu Basho 2027 runs Nov 14–28, 2027 at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center**, the year's sixth and final honbasho. Fifteen days of top-division sumo close the season; the top bouts run roughly 15:45–18:00 daily. Buy via the official English site sumo.or.jp/EnTicket.

Sun, Nov 14, 2027 08:00 JST FukuokaPaid; buy via sumo.or.jp/EnTicket (international cards accepted), Ticket Pia / Lawson / Seven, or resellers (Klook, Viator, GetYourGuide, JTB) at higher prices with English support. Approximate 2026 prices — 2027 prices are released with the tournament, so confirm on the official site (as of July 2026): ringside tamari-seki around ¥20,000/person; masu box seats roughly ¥9,000–15,000/person by tier and day; Western chair seats from about ¥3,500 (tier C, weekday) up to ¥11,000+ (tier SS). Advance sale typically opens 5–8 weeks before; check the official site for the exact 2027 on-sale date.