Kanamara Matsuri

A unique festival held on the first Sunday of April at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki. Featuring processions of phallic-shaped portable shrines, it originally prayed for protection from sexually transmitted diseases and prosperity of descendants. Recently it has gained attention as an LGBTQ+ support event and is widely covered by international media.

The totality of festivals in Japan, with over 300,000 held annually nationwide. Originating in Shinto rituals, they serve diverse purposes including harvest prayers, plague prevention, and ancestor worship. As a mechanism that strengthens community bonds and transmits culture across generations, matsuri culture is an intangible cultural asset forming the foundation of Japanese society.

One of Japan's three major festivals, held in July at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. Originating in 876 during the Heian period, it boasts over 1,000 years of history. Its highlight is the Yama-Hoko Junko (parade of elaborate floats), and it is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

One of Japan's representative summer festivals held annually in August in Aomori City. Giant illuminated float figures parade through town accompanied by unique music and dancing. Though its precise origins are unclear, it is believed to continue from the Edo period. Symbolizes the vibrant culture of northeastern Japan and is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

A festival held twice annually in spring and fall in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. A tradition from the Edo period, elaborate floats decorated with intricate carvings and lanterns parade through town. Floats feature complex mechanized puppets known for technical precision. Counted among Japan's three major festivals and registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Festival culture integrated with Takayama's town.

A representative Japanese festival held in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Two festivals occur annually: the Spring Sanno Festival (April 14-15) and the Fall Hachimangu Festival (October 9-10), continuing from the Edo period. Characterized by elaborately decorated festival floats, it is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Property. Staged in Takayama's well-preserved historic district, it symbolizes ancient Japanese festival culture.