From famous fireworks displays in Tokyo and traditional Kyoto rituals to regional dance festivals and celebrations far beyond the usual travel routes, we help you discover the events worth planning a trip around — browse the full list of festivals or explore them visually on our interactive map.
Japan's festivals are deeply connected to the seasons, local communities, history, food, faith, and celebration. But reliable information can be difficult to find—especially when you need to organise a trip well in advance. Dates change, details are announced late, and useful information is often scattered across local websites, social media, and Japanese-only sources.
Next Matsuri brings that information together in one clear, practical place.
Plan with more confidence
Every festival page is designed to answer the questions that matter before you travel:
- —When and where is the festival held?
- —Are the dates confirmed or estimated?
- —What kind of festival is it?
- —What can you expect as a visitor?
- —Where can you find the official information?
- —When was the listing last checked?
We aim to make it easier to plan around Japan's festivals—not just discover them at the last minute.
When an organiser has confirmed dates or event details, we show that clearly. When dates are still expected, pending, or subject to change, we label them transparently and link to the official source whenever possible. Always check the organiser's latest information before making final travel arrangements.
Every season, every prefecture
Our ambition is simple: to become the most useful reference for festivals across Japan.
Next Matsuri covers all kinds of events, including:
We are building the guide gradually, starting with a growing collection of verified festival listings and expanding towards every prefecture, every season, and every type of celebration.
More than a calendar
A date alone does not tell you why an event matters.
Alongside festival listings, Next Matsuri publishes guides to Japan's festival traditions, regional recommendations, practical planning advice, and seasonal inspiration on our blog. Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time, returning for a deeper trip, living here temporarily, or looking for a reason to explore somewhere new, we want to help you experience Japan through its celebrations.
Over time, we will also share original field notes, photographs, and videos from festivals we attend—practical observations that can make a real difference when planning your visit.
Made for an international audience
Next Matsuri is built for travellers and festival lovers everywhere.
English is our main language, with Japanese and French content being added progressively. Spanish will follow. We use translation tools to help make information accessible, while working to review and improve translations so that festival names, dates, cultural context, and practical details remain accurate.
Help us keep the guide current
Festival information can change quickly. A date may be announced later than usual, a route may change, or an event may be cancelled because of weather or local circumstances.
If you spot an error, have an update, or can point us towards an official source, please use the report option on the festival page. Your contribution helps make Next Matsuri more useful for everyone.
Our promise
We are not here to turn every event into a "must-see." We are here to help you find the festival that feels right for your journey—and give you the information to plan for it with confidence.
Browse all festivalsNext Matsuri — your guide to the festivals of Japan, every prefecture, every season, all in one place.
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