Japan hosts many festivals each year that showcase its centuries-old culture and many traditions. Here are some of the most enjoyable ones. The Nebuta Festival in Aomori is one of the most beautiful. It is characterized by its huge sculptures of illuminated lanterns accompanied by dancing. It is an exceptional spectacle that is worth seeing. Every summer, the city of Gujo Hachiman organizes the Gujo Odori, a "bon dance" festival that lasts for 32 nights. This tradition dates back over 400 years. Visitors are invited to skype data join in the traditional dances, in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Another event to do is the Owara Kaze no Bon festival in Toyama. This festival, which celebrates the end of summer, is known for its graceful dancing and singing performed by groups in kimono under paper lanterns. Of course, there are many other festivals, so many that it is impossible to list them all.
Local cuisine: a feast for the senses
Japanese cuisine is not limited to sushi and ramen! Each region of Japan offers unique specialties that reflect its terroir and culinary traditions. In the Tohoku region, wanko soba is a gastronomic experience/challenge where you are served small bowls of soba without end until you say stop. This unusual custom dates back to the Nanbu Toshinao era in the Edo era where it was frowned upon not to satisfy a guest but also to refuse a dish served by a host under penalty of the host believing that his cooking is not good.
In Shikoku, don't miss sanuki udon, a variety of thick noodles served in a savory broth. Local izakayas, Japanese taverns, are great places to enjoy a variety of dishes in a friendly atmosphere. Try yakitori in Fukuoka (nothing like those found in France) or okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Hiroshima to discover a little more of Japan's great gastronomic variety.