Kansai's Seasonal Traditions

Kansai in any season is packed full of attractions.

Kansai is blessed with four seasons unique to Japan and abundant nature. As well as displaying its natural beauty in all seasons, Kansai is a place where the events and festivals always give us different impressions whenever you visit, as they offer brilliant touches. Here are the seasonal traditions of such a called Kansai.

SPRING　When we think of spring in Japan, cherry blossoms come to mind. Kansai has a number of sites famous for cherry blossoms, and many festivals and events are held during the flowering season.

March

Todaiji Shunie (Omizutori) (Nara Pref.)
Ozumo Spring Tour　(Osaka Pref.)

April

Cherry blossoms (in various regions)
Miyako Odori (Kyoto Pref.)
Nagahama Hikiyama Festival (Shiga Pref.)

May

Aoi Festival (Kyoto Pref.)
Kobe Festival (Hyogo Pref.)

Cherry blossoms (Kiyomizudera Temple)

Todaiji Temple Shunie

Ozumo Spring Tour

Kobe Festival

Summer Summer is the time for festivals. Two of Japan's 3 greatest festivals, the Gion Festival and Tenjin Festival, as well as Awa Odori Dance are help in Kansai. Fireworks are also a summer tradition.

June

Himeji Yukata Festival (Hyogo Pref.)

July

Gion Festival (Kyoto Pref.)
Tenjin Festival (Osaka Pref.)

August

Fireworks Display (in various regions)
Nara Tokae (Nara Pref.)
The National High School Baseball Tournament (Hyogo Pref.)
Awa Odori Dance (Tokuchima Pref.)
Daimonji Gozan Okuribi (Kyoto Pref.)

Awa Odori Dance

Gion Festival Dance

Fireworks (Tenjin Festival)

Daimonji Gozan Okuribi

Autumn　The beauty of the crimson foliage that covers the mountains is exceptional in autumn. Festivals that celebrate the good harvest of crops are also held in various regions.

September

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (Osaka Pref.)

October

Jidai Festival (Kyoto Pref.)
Midosuji Parade (Osaka Pref.)
Nada no Kenka Festival (Hyogo Pref.)
Shika no Tsunokiri (Nara Pref.)
Shosoin-ten (Nara Pref.)

November

Crimson foliage (in various regions)

Crimson foliage (Tanzan Shrine)

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival

Jidai Festival

Winter The winter towns in December are brightened up by illuminations. On welcoming the New Year, people make thier year's first visit to a shrine to pray for happiness for the year.

December