Pop Japan

The best way to enjoy your stay in Japan and to experience the authentic traditional culture is by attending a matsuri - or a local Japanese festival. This may shock tourists as Japan has their own unique way of celebrating their festivities. Local festivals are usually hosted by local shrines or temple, though dates of the festival may vary, they usually hold their activities during the last few weeks of summer. Other festival dates are also spread out across the calendar so make sure you include one in your trip!

What do I do at a festival?

You have fun! This is the number one rule you have to keep in mind when you attend a matsuri, you go there, spend a little bit money, hangout with your friends, but most of all, you seize the moment. There are a lot of exciting things to do in a matsuri so you better check them all out!

What do I wear?

Girls usually wear a yukata when going to a matsuri while boys style up. A matsuri is not a fashion show but some love to wear unusual outfits. This is not frowned upon, though. Matsuri is the time for you to enjoy and express yourself so if ever you see someone wearing a Pikachu mask while wearing a yukata, don’t be creeped out! Character masks are a hit during festival season. You can wear whatever you want in a matsuri but if you’re planning to visit the local shrine or temple that hosts the festival, be sure to wear the proper attire.

What do I bring?

It would be better if you bring some cash with you. A small purse would be also fine, you don’t want to be holding on to something when you catch a goldfish.

What do I buy?

If you’re hungry, festival food will surely fill you up. Have a taste of takoyaki or octopus balls, dango or glutinous rice balls, chocolate bananas, and candies! There are a lot of candies to choose from. They can be packed in small bags and you can munch them while walking. Food in a matsuri are good deals; they come in cheap but it will leave you full. Make sure that you'll taste one of each kind when you attend one!

You can also opt to buy souvenirs at a matsuri. You can buy an uchiwa or a fan, lucky charms, toys, and even plushies. There are a lot of stuff to take home from a matsuri and you will surely love them for their uniqueness and price.

What else can I do?

Festival games are a popular for being complicated and fun at the same time. You can try out the goldfish scooping game where you can take home the fish that you got. Ring toss games are also an all time favorite. You can pick a prize based on the number of rings you perfectly tossed.

Karaoke contests and sumo competitions are also held within the week of the matsuri. Locals would often compete with one another, bringing entertainment to the audiences.

Of course, a visit to the local shrine would complete your matsuri experience. After playing around and buying stuff, pray to the local deity for a prosperous life and a safe travel.

If ever you want to attend a local matsuri on your visit, make sure you plot your plans!