Every spring, the city of Nikko comes alive with music, color, and centuries-old traditions during the Yayoi Festival (弥生祭). Held for over 1,200 years, this spectacular festival celebrates the arrival of spring and prays for good fortune in the year ahead. Taking place at Futarasan Shrine (日光二荒山神社 ) in Tochigi Prefecture, the festival is one of Nikko’s most treasured cultural events and a wonderful opportunity to experience one of Japan’s oldest living traditions.

With Spring here, the flowers are blooming, seasonal depression is loosening its grip, and Japan is about to enter into hanami season. Hana