Tanabata

A traditional Japanese event held on the day before the start of spring, where soybeans are thrown to drive away evil spirits with the chant 'Demons out, good fortune in.' The custom of eating ehomaki sushi rolls has also spread nationwide. As a seasonal purification ritual, grand bean-throwing events are held at shrines and temples.

One of the five seasonal festivals held on July 7, a star festival based on the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi. The uniquely Japanese custom of writing wishes on tanzaku paper strips and hanging them on bamboo is celebrated with splendid festivals nationwide, led by the Sendai Tanabata Festival. It is a Chinese-origin observance that evolved uniquely in Japan.

Traditional customs and culture related to Japan's winter. Many practices root in seasonal change, such as eating pumpkin on winter solstice and year-end rituals. Winter enjoyment culture developed through snow festivals and onsen hot spring culture. Traditional crafts utilizing winter materials like ice and snow exist. Seasonal consciousness based on ancient agricultural calendars remains embedded in daily life.

A traditional Japanese spring custom of appreciating cherry blossoms during their blooming season. Originating among aristocrats in the Nara period, it spread to the general public during the Edo period. As the cherry blossom front moves northward, the entire Japanese archipelago enjoys hanami season, making it an iconic cultural tradition.

The traditional Japanese custom of appreciating cherry blossoms. While plum blossom viewing existed in the Nara period, cherry blossoms became the focus from the Heian period onward. Held nationwide from March to April, the custom of gathering beneath cherry trees is an important annual social event. Hanami symbolizes the Japanese sensitivity to nature's fleeting beauty.

A premier summer festival of the Tohoku region held every August in Aomori City. Enormous illuminated warrior-themed floats called nebuta parade through the streets while dancers known as haneto leap to the chant of 'Rassera.' It is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.