Every autumn across the Kanto region, a lively festival called Tori no Ichi fills the air with cheers, lantern lights, and laughter. People come to wish for good health and successful business in the year ahead. Dating back to the Edo period, this celebration was originally seen as the first event to welcome the New Year.

Japan, like many other countries, celebrates this wonderful spooky event. But just as every nation adds its own flair to this Irish-origin holiday, Japan has thoroughly adapted and curated its own unique version of the ghostly tradition. Festivities now start as early as the beginning of October and climax on the 31st.

Dwarves, fairies, ghouls, demons—mythical creatures have filled our world and our storybooks, sometimes whimsical and sometimes dark. It’s not surprising that a country like Japan has its own versions of supernatural beings—Yōkai, whose legends are still talked about to this day. With the rise of anime adaptations, it’s no wonder that the tales of Yōkai have found their way back into people’s imaginations—this time through cosplay. Let’s take a dive into the world of Yōkai Fe

Jidai Matsuri, the Festival of the Ages, is one of Kyoto’s 3 major festivals.  It is held annually on October 22nd.  It is known for its walk through history in the form of processions that showcase the different eras during which Kyoto was the capital of Japan; from 794 to 1868. 

Obon is a cherished time when families reunite to celebrate the memory of their ancestors. It’s believed that the spirits of loved ones return to visit during this period. Think Halloween meets Día de los Muertos—but with a very Japanese touch of gratitude, family, and celebration.

Japan is once again ready to host the world—this time with a theme focused on shaping a human-centered, sustainable future. Expo 2025 takes place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, on Yumeshima Island, a man-made island in Osaka Bay. This marks Japan’s third time hosting a World Expo.

Every summer in Japan, something truly magical happens along the rivers and coasts — thousands of glowing lanterns gently float on the water, creating a peaceful, dreamlike scene. This beautiful tradition is called Toro Nagashi, the Japanese Floating Lantern Festival, a heartfelt ceremony honoring ancestors, praying for peace, and celebrating life itself.