Date Apr. 2 ~ Apr. 7 Gyoki, Buddhist Devotionals at Zojoji Temple, Minato-ku (near Tokyo Tower). In commemoration of Priest Honen's death, Bugaku (cou

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1 1. Published by Tourist Information Center of Japan National Tourism Organization and all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited Japan National Tourism Organization. 2. Dates and functions are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the latest information in advance. 3. Events marked with are the major events. 4. Dates of events marked with are the same every year. 5. Japanese explanations appearing at the bottom of each entry give the name of the event and the nearest railway station in Japanese. Point to this Japanese when you need help from a Japanese passerby. 6. Please refer to (basically in Japanese) for each event. 7. The Subway Lines and Station Numbers are indicated in parentheses ( ). The Internet Website of Japan National Tourism Organization is available at < TOKYO 東京 Date Mar. 21 ~ Apr. 13 Ueno Sakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival at Ueno Park, Taito-ku. People can enjoy viewing about 800 cherry trees in bloom even in the evening, as thousands of Bonbori (paper lanterns) are lit up from 5:30 pm to 8 pm. Some events are scheduled around Shinobazu-no-ike Pond in the park daily during the period. Note The festival period varies depending on the cherry blossoms. The JR Yamanote Line, the Ginza or Hibiya Subway Line to Ueno Sta. (G 16, H 17) 台東区上野公園 うえの桜まつり JR 山手線 地下鉄銀座線又は日比谷線上野駅 Date Mar. 28 ~ Apr. 6 Note Chiyoda-no-Sakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival at Yasukuni Shrine, Chiyoda-ku. One can enjoy a splendid view of cherry blossoms along the Chidorigafuchi path and in the precincts of Yasukuni Shrine until around 10 pm, as flowers are lit up in the evening. The festival period varies depending on the cherry blossoms. The Tozai, Hanzomon or Toei Shinjuku Subway Line to Kudanshita Sta. (T 07, Z 06, S 05), and then walk about 5 min. to Yasukuni Shrine & Chidorigafuchi. 千代田区靖国神社千鳥ヶ淵 千代田のさくらまつり 地下鉄東西線 半蔵門線又は都営新宿線で九段下駅 徒歩約 5 分で靖国神社と千鳥ヶ淵 Date Mar. 29 ~ Apr. 6 Bokutei Sakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival at Sumida Koen Park, Sumida-ku. One can enjoy viewing of cherry blossoms in the park. Some events are scheduled on Sakurabashi Bridge over the Sumida River on Saturdays and Sundays during the period. Note The festival period varies depending on the cherry blossoms. The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18) 墨田区隅田公園桜橋橋上 墨堤さくらまつり 銀座線又は都営浅草線浅草駅 Date Apr. 1 Tanashi Daruma Ichi, Dharma Doll Fair at Tanashisan Soji-ji Temple, Tanashicho, Nishitokyo in the suburbs of Tokyo. Stalls selling Dharma dolls are set up in the temple compound from around 9 am to around 4 pm. 30 min. by the Seibu Shinjuku Line from Shinjuku Sta. to Tanashi Sta. (North Exit), and then walk 5 min. 西東京市田無町田無山総持寺 田無だるま市 西武新宿駅より西武新宿線で 30 分 田無駅 ( 北口 ) 下車 徒歩 5 分 Calendar Events to be enjoyed in April

2 Date Apr. 2 ~ Apr. 7 Gyoki, Buddhist Devotionals at Zojoji Temple, Minato-ku (near Tokyo Tower). In commemoration of Priest Honen's death, Bugaku (court dance with music) is performed at the main hall from around 12:30 pm to 1 pm, and Oneri-Gyoretsu, a procession including a parade of children in colorful attire takes place from 1:30 pm to 2 pm on the 5th, 6th and the 7th. When it rains, the whole events held outdoors will be canceled. Note Honen Shonin ( ) : a Japanese Buddhist monk, the founder of the Jodo Sect of Japanese Buddhism. The Toei Mita Subway Line to Onarimon Sta. (I 06) or Shibakoen Sta. (I 05), and then walk 3 min. 港区増上寺 御忌 ( ぎょき ) 都営三田線御成門駅又は芝公園駅より徒歩 3 分 Date Apr. 4 Hono Ozumo (a dedicatory Sumo match) at Yasukuni Shrine, Chiyoda-ku, features Sumo matches dedicated by some 200 Rikishi (Sumo wrestlers). The ritual starts from 9 am and the matches by Maku-shita (low-ranking) Rikishi start from around 10:40 am, and Maku-uchi (high-ranking) Rikishi including Yokozuna (grand champions) enter the ring from around 2 pm. This event is open to the first six thousand people. The admission is free of charge. The Tozai, Hanzomon or Toei Shinjuku Subway Line to Kudanshita Sta. (T 07, Z 06, S 05) 千代田区靖国神社 奉納大相撲 東西線 半蔵門線又は都営新宿線九段下駅 Date Apr. 5 ~ May 6 Bunkyo Tsutsuji Matsuri, Azalea Festival at Nezu Shrine, Bunkyo-ku. One can enjoy a view of azalea blossoms in the precincts of the Shrine. It features a parade of Mikoshi (a portable shrine) from 1 pm on the 6th, and performing arts such as Gongen-Taiko (Japanese drumming performance) from 12 noon on the 27th, 29th, May 3rd, 4th and 5th and Urayasu-no-mai (Shinto dance with music) from 1pm on May 3rd. When it rains, the parade and performing arts will be canceled. Admission to the Azalea Garden is \200. When it rains between Apr. 7th and 11th, the garden will be closed. Note The festival period varies depending on azalea flowering. The Chiyoda Subway Line to Nezu Sta. (C 14) 文京区根津神社 文京つつじまつり 千代田線根津駅 Date Apr. 13 Shirasagi-no-mai, White Heron Dance in the compound of Sensoji Temple, Taito-ku. The dance is performed in front of the main hall of Sensoji Temple twice from around 11:30 am and 3:30 pm. When it rains, the dance will be canceled. The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18) 台東区浅草寺 白鷺の舞銀座線又は都営浅草線浅草駅 Date Apr. 19 Asakusa Yabusame, horseback archery at Sumida Koen Park, Taito-ku. Kusajishi (Japanese archery, targeting on a fake deer) is held from 11 am to 12 noon and Yabusame (horseback archery) is held from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. When it heavily rains, the event will be canceled. The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18) 台東区隅田公園 浅草流鏑馬 銀座線又は都営浅草線浅草駅 2

3 Date Apr. 19 ~ May 6 Fuji Matsuri, Wisteria Festival at Kameido Tenjin (or Tenmangu) Shrine, Koto-ku. There are over 100 wisteria roots in the Shrine's precincts, and they are usually in full bloom in this season. Various entertainments are scheduled during the period. Note The festival period varies depending on wisteria flowering. The JR Sobu Line to Kameido Sta. (North Exit), and then walk 15 min. 江東区亀戸天神社 ( 天満宮 ) 藤まつり JR 総武線亀戸駅 ( 北口 ) より徒歩 15 分 Date Apr. 20 Annual Spring Festival of Mt. Takao, Hachioji, features a procession of children in fancy attire, Yamabushi (mountain priests) in their traditional attire, and a corps of fife & drum. They start from Jyuichi-chome Jaya near Takaosan Sta. of the cable car at 11 am for Yakuo-in Temple, and there Shishimai (lion dance) and Japanese drum beating are performed from around 12 noon. About 1 hr. by the Keio Line from Shinjuku Sta. to Takaosan-guchi Sta. From there, 5 min. by cable car to Takaosan Sta. or 12 min. by chair lift to Sanjo Sta. (located on the top of Mt. Takao) and then walk to Jyuichi-chome Jaya. 八王子市高尾山薬王院 高尾山春季大祭 新宿から京王線で約 1 時間高尾山口駅より 高尾山駅までケーブルカーで 5 分又はリフトで 12 分山上駅下車 徒歩で十一丁目茶屋 Date Apr. 20 Daidai Kagura, sacred Shinto music and dance to pray for a good harvest of the year, in an annual Spring Festival of Shinagawa Shrine, Shinagawa-ku. Six kinds of Daidai Kagura are presented from 2 pm to around 3:30 pm in the main hall of the Shrine. The Keihin Kyuko Line to Shin-Bamba Sta. (North Exit), and then walk 1 min. 品川区品川神社 太々神楽 京浜急行新馬場駅 ( 北口 ) より徒歩 1 分 Date Apr. 21 Negi-no-Mai at Tenso Shrine, Ota-ku. Masked priests perform sacred dances to the tune of drum music to pray for a good harvest of the year in the precincts of the Shrine from 3 pm. When it rains, the dances will be performed indoors. The Tokyu Ikegami Line to Ontakesan Sta., and then walk 5 min. 大田区西嶺町天祖神社 禰宜の舞 東急池上線御嶽山駅より徒歩 5 分 Date Apr. 21 ~ Apr. 23 Annual Spring Festival of Yasukuni Shrine, Chiyoda-ku. Japanese traditional dance and martial arts are dedicated to the Shrine on the stage of Nohgakudo Hall daily during the festival period. The Tozai, Hanzomon or Toei Shinjuku Subway Line to Kudanshita Sta. (T 07, Z 06, S 05) 千代田区靖国神社 靖国神社春季例大祭 地下鉄東西線 半蔵門線又は都営新宿線九段下駅 3

4 Date Apr. 29 ~ May 3 Annual Spring Festival of Meiji Shrine, Shibuya-ku. Major events held in the precincts are as follows: Bugaku (ancient court dance with music) from 11 am on Apr. 29th; Noh (classical masked drama) and Kyogen (Noh farce) from 11:45 am, and Japanese traditional music from 3:45 pm on May 2nd; and Kyudo Taikai (Japanese archery meet) held at Daini-Kyudo-jo from 9 am to around 4 pm on the 3rd. (1) The JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Sta. (2) The Chiyoda Subway Line to Meiji-Jingumae Sta. (C 03) (3) Daini-Kyudo-jo: The Odakyu Line to Sangubashi Sta. 渋谷区明治神宮 明治神宮春の大祭 (1) JR 山手線原宿駅 (2) 地下鉄千代田線明治神宮前駅 (3) 第二弓道場 : 小田急線参宮橋駅下車 TOKYO 東京 Hana Matsuri 花まつり Date Apr. 1 ~ Apr. 13 Hana Matsuri, Floral Festival to celebrate the Buddha's Birthday is held at all Buddhist temples on the days centering around April 8, which is said to be Buddha's Birthday. At the temples, small images of Buddha are open to the public and Amacha (sweet tea) is poured over the images as an expression of devotion. Chigo-Gyoretsu, parades of children in fancy attire, pulling a papiermache white elephant, a sacred animal associated with Buddha, are held at the following temples : Date Apr. 6 Hana Matsuri at Ikegami Honmonji Temple, Ota-ku. "Hana-no-sei", a parade of children pulling a papier-mache white elephant leaves Tokumochi Kaikan Hall near Ikegami Sta. at 1 pm for the temple. (1) The Tokyu Ikegami Line to Ikegami Sta., and then walk 10 min. (2) The Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Nishi-Magome Sta. (A 01), and then walk 10 min. 大田区池上本門寺徳持会館 花まつり (1) 東急池上線池上駅より徒歩 10 分 (2) 地下鉄都営浅草線西馬込駅より徒歩 10 分 Date Apr. 6 Hana Matsuri at Gokokuji Temple, Bunkyo-ku, features Chigo-Gyoretsu (a parade of children in fancy attire) from around 2 pm in the precincts of the temple. The Yurakucho Subway Line to Gokokuji Sta. (Y 11) 文京区護国寺 花まつり 地下鉄有楽町線護国寺駅 Date Apr. 6 Hana Matsuri at Tsukiji Honganji Temple, Chuo-ku. Chigo-Gyoretsu (a parade of children in fancy attire) takes place from around 11 am in and around the temple. The Hibiya Subway Line to Tsukiji Sta. (H 10) 中央区築地本願寺 花まつり Date Apr. 8 地下鉄日比谷線築地駅 Hana Matsuri at Sensoji Temple, Taito-ku. Chigo-Gyoretsu (a parade of children in fancy attire) leaves Sensoji Kindergarten for the temple from around 10 am. The Ginza or Toei Asakusa Subway Line to Asakusa Sta. (G 19, A 18) 台東区浅草寺 花まつり 地下鉄銀座線又は都営浅草線浅草駅 4

5 KANTO 関東 Date Note Late Mar. ~ Early Apr. Odawara Sakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival at Joshi Koen Park, Odawara, Kanagawa Pref. One can enjoy 350 blooming cherry trees in the garden even in the evening, as flowers are lit up from 6 pm to 9 pm daily during the period. Chigo-Gyoretsu (a parade of children in fancy attire) is held from 1 pm to around 2 pm on Apr. 6th. The festival period varies depending on the cherry blossoms. (1) The JR Tokaido Shinkansen or the JR Tokaido Line to Odawara Sta., and then walk 7 min. (2) 1 hr. 10 min. by Odakyu Limited Express "Romance Car", or 1 hr. 40 min. by Odakyu Rapid Express from Shinjuku Sta. to Odawara Sta., and then walk 7 min. 神奈川県小田原市城趾公園 小田原桜まつり (1) JR 東海道新幹線又はJR 東海道線小田原駅より徒歩 7 分 (2) 新宿駅より小田急線特急 ロマンスカー で1 時間 10 分又は小田急線 ( 急行 ) で1 時間 40 分 小田原駅下車 徒歩 7 分 Date Mar. 29 ~ Apr. 6 Note Date Apr. 6 Kanou-no-Yube, Cherry Blossom-viewing Festival at night, at Sankei-en Garden, Yokohama, Kanagawa Pref. This Japanese-style landscape garden has about 300 cherry trees. One can enjoy cherry blossom-viewing even in the evening, since flowers are lit up until 9 pm during the period. Admission to the garden is \500. The festival period varies depending on the cherry blossoms. (1) The JR Negishi Line to Negishi Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus to Honmoku Bus Stop, and then walk 7 min. (2) The JR Keihin Tohoku, JR Tokaido or the Tokyu Toyoko Line to Yokohama Sta. (East Exit). From there, 30 min. by bus to Honmoku Sankeien-mae Bus Stop, and then walk 3 min. 神奈川県横浜市三渓園 観桜の夕べ (1) JR 根岸線根岸駅よりバスで10 分 本牧下車 徒歩 7 分 (2) JR 京浜東北線 JR 東海道線又は東急東横線横浜駅 ( 東口 ) よりバスで30 分 本牧三渓園前下車 徒歩 3 分 Kanamara Matsuri, Fertility Festival at Kanayama Shrine (Wakamiya Hachimangu), Kawasaki, Kanagawa Pref. Mihitorisai, a ritual of lighting sacred fires with flint takes place from 10 am to 10:45 am. The Shrine is noted for its Menkake Gyoretsu, a parade of masked people carrying the sacred palanquins containing symbols of phallic gods, from 12 noon to 1:30 pm. The Keihin Kyuko Daishi Line to Kawasaki Daishi Sta. 神奈川県川崎市金山神社 かなまらまつり京浜急行大師線川崎大師駅 Date Apr. 12 & Apr. 13 Narita Taiko Matsuri, Drum Festival in Narita, Chiba Pref. Sengan Hana-Daiko, drum-beating taken part in by about 700 parishioners in the compound of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple from 10 am to 10:30 am, and drum beating performances on Omotesando Street from 10:30 am to 5 pm, on both days. Naritasan Sennen Yobutai, a millennium night stage show of drum-beating under torchlights is held in the precincts from 5 pm to 7 pm on the 12th. A parade of drum-beating on Omotesando Street takes place from 3 pm to 5 pm on the 13th. The JR Narita (Sobu) Line or the Keisei Line to Narita Sta., and then walk 10 min. 千葉県成田市新勝寺及び表参道成田太鼓祭 JR 成田 ( 総武 ) 線又は京成線成田駅より徒歩 10 分 5

6 Date Apr. 13 ~ Apr. 17 Yayoi-sai Festival of Futarasan Shrine, Nikko, Tochigi Pref. This festival, with over a 1,200 year history, is highlighted by a parade of Hanayatai (eleven house-shaped floats, colorfully embellished with artificial cherry blossoms and paper lanterns) going through the town on the 16th and the 17th. Three Mikoshi (portable shrines) parade from Futarasan Shrine for Hongu Shrine, from 12 noon on the 17th. The JR Nikko Line to Nikko Sta. or the Tobu Railway's Nikko Line to Tobu-Nikko Sta. From there, 15 min. by bus to Sogo Kaikanmae Bus Stop or Nishi-Sando Bus Stop, and then walk 10 min. 栃木県日光市二荒山神社本宮神社弥生祭 JR 日光線日光駅 又は東武日光線東武日光駅よりバスで15 分 総合会館前又は西参道下車 徒歩 10 分 Date Apr. 13 ~ Apr. 20 Kamakura Matsuri Festival at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura, Kanagawa Pref., an hour by train from JR Tokyo Sta. The highlights of the festival are as follows: on the 13th, a parade of Mikoshi (portable shrines) from 11 am to 1:30 pm along Wakamiya Oji Street, and Shizuka-no-mai (Japanese dance) on the Mai-den stage from 3 pm; and on the 20th, Yabusame (horseback archery) in the precincts of the Shrine from 1 pm. If it rains, all the events above mentioned will be canceled. The JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Sta. 神奈川県鎌倉市鶴岡八幡宮 鎌倉まつり JR 横須賀線鎌倉駅 Date Apr. 26 ~ May 6 Note Mashiko-yaki Toki Ichi, Pottery Fair at Mashiko-machi, Tochigi Pref., is held from 9 am to around 5 pm at several venues in Mashiko, such as Kyohan Center, Tsukamoto Seitosho and Togei Mura. (1) The JR Tohoku Shinkansen or JR Tohoku Honsen Line to Oyama Sta., and then change to the Mito Line to Shimodate Sta. From there, the Moka Railway to Mashiko Sta., and then walk 25 min. (2) The JR Tohoku Shinkansen or JR Tohoku Honsen Line to Utsunomiya Sta. (West Exit). From No. 14 Bus Stop, 1 hr. by bus for Mashiko and get off at Togei Messe Iriguchi Bus Stop, and then walk 10 min. Special bus services between the Mashiko-yaki Toki Ichi venue and the Kasama-no-Toensai venue on Apr. 29 and May 3rd - 5th will be operated by Ibaraki Kotsu Bus. (\500) 栃木県芳賀郡益子町 益子焼陶器市 (1) 東北新幹線又は JR 東北本線小山駅より水戸線で下館駅へ そこより真岡鉄道で益子駅下車 徒歩 25 分 (2) 東北新幹線又は JR 東北本線宇都宮駅 ( 西口 ) 14 番バス乗り場より益子行きバスで 1 時間 陶芸メッセ入口下車 徒歩 10 分 Date Apr. 29 ~ May 5 Note Kasama-no-Toensai or Himatsuri, Pottery Fair at Geijutsu-no-mori Koen Park in Kasama, Ibaraki Pref., is held from 9 am to 5 pm every day during the fair period. 1 hr. 10 min. by JR Joban Line's Limited Express "Hitachi" (or about 2 hrs. by local train) from Ueno Sta. to Tomobe Sta. From there, 15 min. by bus or taxi to the site. (Shuttle buses are available from North Exit of Tomobe Sta. to the site during the period. \100) Special bus services between the Mashiko-yaki Toki Ichi venue and the Kasama-no-Toensai venue on Apr. 29 and May 3rd - 5th will be operated by Ibaraki Kotsu Bus. (\500) 茨城県笠間市芸術の森広園 笠間の陶炎祭上野よりJR 常磐線特急 " ひたち " で1 時間 10 分 ( または各駅列車で約 2 時間 ) 友部駅下車 そこより会場までバスまたはタクシーで15 分 ( 期間中は友部駅北口よりシャトルバス運行 \100) 6

7 1. Published by Tourist Information Center of Japan National Tourism Organization and all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited Japan National Tourism Organization. 2. Dates and functions are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the latest information in advance. 3. Events marked with are the major events. 4. Dates of events marked with are the same every year. 5. Japanese explanation appearing at the bottom of each entry give the name of the event and the nearest railway station in Japanese. Point to this Japanese when you need help from a Japanese passerby. 6. Please refer to (basically in Japanese) for each event. Note: The Internet Website of Japan National Tourism Organization is available at < Calendar Events to be enjoyed in April 2014 HOKKAIDO & TOHOKU 北海道 東北 Date Apr. 23 ~ May. 6 Hirosaki Sakura Matsuri, Cherry Blossom Festival is held in Hirosaki Koen (park) in Hirosaki, Aomori Pref. There are about 2,600 cherry trees on the ground of Hirosaki Castle and along the castle's moat in the park. Cherry blossoms are lit up from 6:30 pm to 10 pm daily during the festival period. Note The festival period might be subject to change depending on cherry blossoming. The JR Ou Honsen Line to Hirosaki Sta., and then walk min. 青森県弘前市弘前公園弘前さくらまつり JR 奥羽本線弘前駅下車 徒歩 分 Date Apr. 29 ~ May. 3 Yonezawa Uesugi Matsuri Festival in commemoration of the famous warlord "Uesugi Kenshin ", Yonezawa, Yamagata Pref. On May 3rd, the highlight of the festival, a procession of Mikoshi (a portable shrine) of Uesugi Shrine and floats from 9:30 am, and Uesugi Gundan Gyoretsu (a parade of about 1,000 Samurai warriors) from 10:20 am, each starting from respective places meet at the square in front of the station and goes together through the city's main street to the Matsukawa Riverside around 11:30 am. And there, Kawanaka-jima Gassen (sham battle) is held from 2 pm to around 3:30 pm. Note Uesugi Kenshin ( ): One of the warlords in the 16th century. The JR Yamagata Shinkansen Line or the JR Ou Honsen Line to Yonezawa Sta. and then walk 10 min. 山形県米沢市松川河畔 名称 米沢上杉まつり JR 山形新幹線又は JR 奥羽本線米沢駅より徒歩 10 分 CHUBU 中部 Date Apr. 1 ~ Apr. 15 Okazaki Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) & Ieyasu Gyoretsu (Procession) at Okazaki- Koen Park, Okazaki, Aichi Pref. One can enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the park even at night from 6 pm to 10 pm daily during the festival period. However, the period of lighting up cherry blossoms may vary depending on blooming. On the 6th, the latter of which, is a procession of Shogun Ieyasu and about 700 Samurai warriors, starting from Iga-Hachimangu Shrine at 1:30 pm and terminating at Otogawa riverbed at around 3 pm, and there a sham battle is held until around 4 pm. Note Ieyasu or Tokugawa Ieyasu ( ): The founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate in Edo (present-day Tokyo). The JR Tokaido Honsen Line to Okazaki Sta. From there, take the Aichi Kanjo Tetsudo Line to Kita-Okazaki Sta., and then walk 5 min. to the Shrine, or to Naka-Okazaki Sta., and then walk 15 min. to Okazaki Koen. 愛知県岡崎市伊賀八幡宮岡崎公園乙川堤 岡崎桜まつり ( 家康行列 ) JR 東海道本線岡崎駅より愛知環状鉄道に乗り換え北岡崎駅下車 徒歩 5 分で神社, または中岡崎駅下車 徒歩 15 分で岡崎公園 1

8 Date Apr. 4 ~ Apr. 6 Shingen-ko Matsuri Festival in Kofu, Yamanashi Pref., about two hours by train from JR Shinjuku Sta. (in Tokyo). On the 5th, Shutsujin-shiki (a ceremony of prayer for victory) is held in front of JR Kofu Sta from around 5:25 pm to 6:30 pm. And then Jidai-gyoretsu (a procession of 1,500 Samurai warriors) leaves Kofu Sta. around 6:30 pm, going through the main streets of the city, and arrives at Maizuru-jo Koen Park around 8:05 pm. Note Takeda Shingen ( ): One of the feudal lords in the 16th century. Maizuru-jo Koen: The JR Chuo Honsen Line to Kofu Sta., and then walk 5 min. 山梨県甲府市舞鶴城公園 信玄公祭り舞鶴城公園 : JR 中央本線甲府駅より徒歩 5 分 Date Apr. 5 & Apr. 6 Inuyama Matsuri Festival at Haritsuna Shrine, Inuyama, Aichi Pref., features thirteen gorgeously decorated Yama (floats) with Karakuri Ningyo, mechanically manipulated dolls aboard, parading on the city's main streets from around 8 am to 9:45 pm on both days. All the floats gather at Haritsuna Shrine in the morning on both days, and then the performances of Karakuri Ningyo are presented on the floats, one after another from 12 noon to 3:10 pm on the 5th, and from 10 am to 2:40 pm on the 6th min. by the Meitetsu Inuyama Line from Nagoya to Inuyama Sta., and then walk 15 min. to the Shrine. 愛知県犬山市針綱神社犬山祭名古屋より名鉄犬山線で30 分犬山駅下車 徒歩 15 分 Date Apr. 5 & Apr. 6 Unagoji Matsuri Festival at Ushikubo Hachimansha Shrine, Toyokawa, Aichi Pref. The festival is known for its parade of leisurely-drawn Dashi (floats), Mikoshi (portable shrines) and folk dancers going between Ushikubo Hachimansha Shrine and Tennosha Shrine from 3:30 pm to 8 pm on the 5th, and from 12:50 pm to 8:30 pm on the 6th. Chigomai, Shinto (dance by children), and the performances by Karakuri Ningyo (mechanically manipulated dolls) are presented on the floats in the precincts of Ushikubo Shrine from 7 pm to 8:30 pm on the 6th. The JR Iida Line from Toyohashi Sta. on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line or Tokaido Honsen Line to Ushikubo Sta., and then walk 5-10 min. 愛知県豊川市牛久保町牛久保八幡社天王社 うなごうじ祭 JR 東海道新幹線または東海道本線豊橋駅よりJR 飯田線牛久保駅下車 徒歩 5~10 分 Date Apr. 12 & Apr. 13 Kuroda Ningyo Joruri, a local puppet play at Shimokuroda Suwa Shrine, Kuroda, Kamisato, Iida, Nagano Pref., designated as one of the National Important Folk Cultural Properties, is performed from 6:30 pm on the 12th, and from 1 pm on the 13th. (1) The JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line or the JR Tokaido Honsen Line to Toyohashi Sta. From there, the JR Iida Line to Iida Sta., and then 15 min. by taxi to the Shrine. (2) 4 hrs. 15 min. by highway bus from Shinjuku Highway Bus Terminal near Shinjuku Sta. (West Exit) to Iida Eki-mae Bus Stop., and then 15 min. by taxi to the Shrine. 長野県飯田市上郷黒田下黒田諏訪神社黒田人形浄瑠璃 (1) JR 東海道新幹線又は JR 東海道本線豊橋駅より JR 飯田線で飯田駅まで行き 神社へはタクシーで 15 分 (2) 新宿駅西口近くの新宿高速バスターミナルより高速バスで 4 時間 15 分 飯田駅前下車 神社へはタクシーで 15 分 Date Apr. 12 & Apr. 13 Tajimi Toki Matsuri, Ceramic Festival in Tajimi, Gifu Pref., is held on Honmachi Oribe Street and some other sites in the city from 10 am to 6 pm on the 12th, and from 10 am to 5 pm on the 13th. The JR Chuo Honsen Line from Nagoya to Tajimi Sta., and then walk 10 min. (Free shuttle buses to the festival site are available from Tajimi Sta. during the festival period.) 岐阜県多治見市本町オリベストリート たじみ陶器まつり名古屋より JR 中央本線多治見駅 徒歩 10 分 ( 陶器市期間中は 多治見駅から陶器市会場まで無料シャトルバス運行 ) 2

9 Date Apr. 14 & Apr. 15 Takayama Matsuri Festival of Hie Shrine, Takayama, Gifu Pref. This is one of the grandest festivals in Japan. Twelve gorgeously embellished floats parade along the streets in the city, escorted by people in gay attire from 9:30 am to 4 pm on both days. The festival reaches its climax from 6:30 pm to 9 pm on the 14th, when all the floats lit up with lanterns are drawn on Nakabashi Bridge and Kajibashi Bridge in the city. The performances of Karakuri Ningyo, mechanically manipulated dolls, are given on three of the floats from 11 am & 3 pm on the 14th, and from 10 am & 2 pm on the 15th. A parade of Mikoshi (portable shrines) starts from Hie Shrine at 1 pm on the 14th, heading for Otabisho, portable-shrine resting place, where Mikoshi stay overnight, and then parade back to the Shrine from 12:30 pm to 4 pm on the 15th. The JR Takayama Honsen Line to Takayama Sta., and then walk 15 min. 岐阜県高山市日枝神社高山祭 JR 高山本線高山駅より徒歩 15 分 Date Apr. 19 & Apr. 20 Furukawa Matsuri Festival or an annual festival of Keta-Wakamiya Shrine, Furukawa-machi, Hida, Gifu Pref., is designated as one of the National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. While Nine gorgeously decorated Yatai floats and Mikoshi (portable shrines) parade on the main streets of the city from morning till evening, performances of Karakuri Ningyo (mechanically manipulated dolls) on the two of them, and Kodomo Kabuki (traditional plays by boys) on the one of them, are demonstrated three times a day on both days. The main event of the festival is Okoshi-daiko, in which hundreds of partially clothed men parade on the streets beating drums and singing folk songs from 8 pm on the 19th through after midnight. The JR Takayama Honsen Line to Hida-Furukawa Sta., and then walk 5 min. 岐阜県飛騨市古川町 古川祭 Date Apr. 20 JR 高山本線飛騨古川駅より徒歩 5 分 Kawanakajima Kassen Sengoku Emaki or Sham Battles of famous Kawanakajima Kassen (battle) fought between famous warlords, Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin, in the 16th century. A sham battle participated in by 900 people is held on the riverbeds of the Fuefuki River in front of Isawa Town Office, Isawa, Yamanashi Pref., from 1:30pm to around 3:30 pm. The JR Chuo Honsen Line to Isawa-Onsen Sta., and then walk 20 min. to Fuefuki Town Office. 山梨県笛吹市石和町笛吹川河畔川中島合戦戦国絵巻 JR 中央本線石和温泉駅より笛吹市役所まで徒歩 20 分 Date Apr. 26 ~ Apr. 29 Haru-no Sado Geino-sai Festival at Mano Koen Park on Sado Island, Niigata Pref., one hour by hydrofoil or 2 hrs. 20 min. by ferry from Niigata Port to Ryotsu Port in Sado Island. Local folk dances and other local performing arts of Sado Island are staged from 1:30 pm to around 3 pm daily during the festival period. When it rains, these will be performed in the "Ibuki-21" gymnasium. 名称 40 min by Minami-sen Line Bus from Ryotsu Port to Mano-Shinmachi Bus Stop, and then walk 20 min. to the park. 新潟県佐渡市真野真野公園春の佐渡芸能祭両津港より南線バスで40 分真野新町駅下車 真野公園へは徒歩 20 分 3

10 KINKI 近畿 Date Mar. 25 ~ Apr. 7 Kitano Odori, Japanese traditional dance by "Geiko (professional entertainers)" at Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto. A performance is held twice from 1:30 pm & 4 pm daily during the period. Admission is \4, min. by municipal bus No. 50 or 101 from Kyoto Sta. to Kitano Tenmangu-mae Bus Stop or Kamishichiken Bus Stop, and then walk 3 min. 京都市上京区上七軒歌舞練場 北野をどり 京都駅より市バス No. 50 又は 101 で北野天満宮前又は上七軒下車 (30 分 ) 徒歩 3 分 Date Apr. 1 ~ Apr. 30 Miyako Odori, Cherry Dance, performed by Maiko (apprentice entertainers) and Geisha (professional entertainers) at Kobu Kaburenjo Theater, Gion, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. A performance is held four times, from 12:30 pm, 2 pm, 3:30 pm and 4:50 pm daily during the period. Admission fees are as follows: \2,000, \4, min. by municipal bus No. 206 from Kyoto Sta. to Gion Bus Stop, and then walk 8 min. 京都市東山区祇園甲部歌舞練場 都をどり 京都駅より市バス No. 206 で祇園下車 (25 分 ) 徒歩 8 分 Date Apr. 4 ~ Apr. 10 Hana-akari Himeji Yozakura-kai (night cherry blossom viewing) & Himeji-jo kan-ou-kai (cherryblossom viewing) are held in Himeji Castle, Himeji, Hyogo Pref. The site for night cherry blossom viewing in Nishinomaru Teien Garden of Himeji Castle is specially open to the public (free of charge) from 6 pm to 9 pm daily, only during the festival period. Please enter by 8:30 pm. On the 5th, music of Koto (Japanese 13-stringed harp) from 11:30 am to 1 pm and Taiko (Japanese drum-beating) from 1:55 pm to 3:55 pm are demonstrated under the cherry blossoms in Sannomaru Hiroba (park). When it rains, Koto & Taiko music performances will be postponed to the following day. The JR Sanyo Shinkansen Line or the JR Sanyo Honsen Line to Himeji Sta., and then walk 15 min. 兵庫県姫路市姫路城 花あかり姫路城夜桜会と姫路城観桜会 JR 山陽新幹線又は JR 山陽本線姫路駅より徒歩 15 分 Date Apr. 5 ~ Apr. 20 Kyo Odori, Traditional Kyoto Dance at Miyagawacho Kaburenjo Theater, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. A performance is held three times starting from 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm daily during the period. The tickets sell at \2,000 or \4,000, at major travel agencies. Take a municipal bus (Shibasu) No. 205, No. 4 or No. 17 from Kyoto Sta. to Kawaramachi-Matsubara Bus Stop, and then walk 7 min. 京都市東山区宮川歌舞練場 京おどり 京都駅より市バス No. 205 No. 4 又は No. 17 で河原町松原下車 徒歩 7 分 Date Apr. 9 ~ Apr. 13 Kyoto Gosho Ippan Kokai, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto. Some halls and precincts of Kyoto Imperial Palace are specially open to the public from 9 am to 4:15 pm daily during the period. Please enter by 3:30 pm. Admission is free of charge. Subway Karasuma Line to Imadegawa Sta., and the walk 8 min. 京都市京都御所京都御所一般公開地下鉄烏丸線今出川駅より徒歩 8 分 4

11 Date Apr. 12 & Apr. 13 Ochamori, serving tea in a giant bowl at Saida-ji Temple, Nara, Nara Pref. Japanese tea is made with huge tea utensils and served in a giant bowls from 9 am to 3 pm on both days. Admission is \3,000. The Kintetsu Nara Line to Yamato Saidai-ji Sta., and then walk 3 min. 奈良市西大寺町西大寺大茶盛近鉄奈良線大和西大寺駅より徒歩 3 分 Date Apr. 13 Yoshino Tayu Hana-kuyo, a festival in commemoration of Yoshino Tayu, one of the most famous female entertainers in the 17th century, is held at Joshoji Temple, Kita-ku, Kyoto. A magnificent procession of Tayu (female entertainers) starts at 10:20 am from in front of Genkoan Temple and arrives at Joshoji Temple at around 11 am. When it rains, the procession will be canceled. The Karasuma Subway Line to Kita-Oji Sta. From there, 15 min. by municipal bus (Kita-No. 1) to Takamine Genkoanmae Bus Stop, and then walk 1 min. 京都市北区常照寺源光庵吉野太夫花供養地下鉄烏丸線北大路駅より 市バス北系統 No. 1で鷹峯源光庵前下車 (15 分 ) 徒歩 1 分 Date Apr. 13 Yasurai Matsuri Festival at Imamiya Shrine, Kita-ku, Kyoto. This festival is designated as one of the National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets, and originates from a legend of this Shrine having abated a serious epidemic in ancient times. At 12 noon, parishioners holding Furyu-kasa (big umbrellas decorated with flowers), devils and children dancing to the accompaniment of Japanese drums and gongs, start from respective Konenji Temple and Kawakami Dai-jingu, and arrive at Imamiya Shrine around 3 pm. And then, Yasurai-mai (Shinto dance with music) is performed in the precincts of the Shrine. If it rains, the procession will be canceled min. by the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Sta. to Kitaoji Sta. From there, take a municipal bus No. 204 or No. 205 to Funaoka-yama Bus Stop, and then walk 7 min. 京都市北区今宮神社光念寺川上大神宮やすらい祭京都駅より地下鉄烏丸線で北大路駅まで行き (15 分 ) そこから市バスNo. 204 又はNo. 205で船岡山下車 徒歩 7 分 Date Apr. 13 Ho-Taiko Hanami Gyoretsu, Cherry-blossom viewing Procession of Daigoji Temple, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. It features a parade of about 300 people clad in gorgeous costumes of the Momoyama period ( ?) marching under the cherry blossoms in the compound of Temple, from 1 pm to 3 pm. (1) The JR Tokaido Honsen Line to Yamashina Sta. From there, take Keihan Bus No. 22 or No. 24 to Daigo Sanboinmae Bus Stop. (2) min. walk from Subway Daigo Sta. on the Tozai subway Line. 京都市伏見区醍醐寺三宝院豊太閤花見行列 (1) JR 東海道本線山科駅より京阪バス No. 22 又は No. 24 で醍醐三宝院前下車 (2) 地下鉄東西線醍醐駅より徒歩 10~15 分 Date Apr. 13 ~ Apr. 16 Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri Festival of Hachiman Shrine, Nagahama, Shiga Pref., is designated as one of the National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets. It features thirteen beautifully bedecked floats, on which Kabuki plays by boys are performed, being exhibited daily along the streets in the city. The highlight of the festival comes on the 15th, when four floats of them proceed from Hachiman Shrine to Otabisho (portable shrine resting place), while Kabuk i plays are performed on the floats at the several sites, continually from 10 am until 8:30 pm. The JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line to Maibara Sta., there change to the JR Hokuriku Honsen Line to Nagahama Sta., and then walk 6 min. 滋賀県長浜市八幡宮 長浜曳山まつり JR 東海道新幹線米原駅よりJR 北陸本線に乗り換え長浜駅下車 徒歩 6 分 5

12 Date Apr. 14 Sei Daimyojin Reisai or Annual Festival of Shiramine Jingu Shrine, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, is highlighted by a game of Kemari, played by the Shrine priests, who loft a small ball with their insteps from around 11:30 am to 12 noon. By municipal bus No. 9 from Kyoto Sta. to Horikawa Imadegawa Bus Stop, or the Karasuma Subway Line to Imadegawa Sta., and then walk 8 min. 京都市上京区白峯神宮 精大明神例祭 JR 京都駅より市バス No. 9 で堀川今出川下車 又は地下鉄烏丸線今出川駅より徒歩 8 分 Date Apr. 28 ~ Apr. 30 Shunki Kagura Sai, Spring Festival at Naiku (Inner Shrine), Ise, Mie Pref. Performance of Jingu- Bugaku (ancient court dance & music) is dedicated to the Shrine on a makeshift stage at Naiku, twice from 11 am and 2 pm daily during the period. When it rains, the places and hours of the performances are subject to change. (1) 1 hr. 30 min. by Limited Express of Kinki Nippon Railway (Kintetsu) from Nagoya to Ujiyamada Sta. From there, 15 min. by bus to Naiku-mae Bus Stop. (2) JR Rapid Train (Kaisoku) "Mie" from Nagoya to Ise-shi Sta. From there, 15 min. by bus to Naiku-mae Bus Stop. 三重県伊勢市伊勢神宮 ( 内宮 ) 春季神楽祭 (1) 名古屋より近鉄 ( 山田線 ) 特急で 1 時間半, 宇治山田駅下車 バスで 15 分 内宮前下車 (2) 名古屋より JR 快速 " みえ " で伊勢市駅まで行き バスで 15 分 内宮前下車 Date Apr. 29 ~ May. 5 Mibu Kyogen, a medieval pantomime, designated as one of the National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties, at Mibu-dera Temple, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto. Mibu Kyogen, thirty pantomime skits, have been handed down. Five kinds of which, are performed from 1 pm to 5:30 pm daily during the period and from 6 pm to 10 pm on the 5th.. Admission is \ min. by municipal bus (Shibasu) No. 26 or No. 28 from Kyoto Sta. to Mibudera-michi Bus Stop, and then walk 3 min. 京都市中京区壬生寺 壬生狂言京都駅より市バスNo. 26 又はNo. 28で壬生寺道下車 (20~30 分 ) 徒歩 3 分 CHUGOKU & SHIKOKU 中国 四国 Date Apr. 4 ~ Apr. 6 Matsuyama Haru Matsuri (Spring Festival) or Oshiro Matsuri Festival at Matsuyama-jo Castle, Matsuyama, Ehime Pref. One could enjoy cherry blossom viewing in & around Matsuyama-jo Castle during the festival period. On the 6th, Daimyo & Musha Gyoretsu ( a procession of a feudal lord & Samurai warriors), starts from Matsuyama-jo Ropeway Sta. at 11:40 am, marching along the main shopping street of the city, and arrives at the intersection with Chifunemachi-dori (street) at around 1 pm. Many more events are scheduled during the period. The JR Yosan Line to Matsuyama Sta. From there, about 10 min. by streetcar to Okaido Stop, and then walk 5 min. to the castle. 愛媛県松山市松山城 松山春まつり JR 予讃線松山駅より市電で約 10 分大街道下車 松山城へは徒歩 5 分 6

13 Date Apr. 15 Hi-watari Shiki, rigorous religious practice of walking on burnt charcoals, at Daisho-in Temple, Miyajima, Saeki-gun, Hiroshima Pref. The ritual to pray for protection from illness and disaster starts from 11am, and Hi-watari Shiki takes place in the temple's ground from around 2 pm to 3 pm. (1) The JR Sanyo Honsen Line to Miyajima-guchi Sta., and then walk 5 min. to Miyajima-guchi Pier. From there, 10 min. by ferryboat to Miyajima Pier, and then walk 20 min. to the temple. (2) 30 min. by streetcar or by bus from Hiroshima Sta. to Hiroshima Ujina Port. From there, 30 min. by hydrofoil to Miyajima Pier, and then walk 20 min. to the temple. 広島県廿日市市宮島町大聖院 火渡り式 ( 火渡り神事 ) (1) JR 山陽本線宮島口駅より徒歩 5 分の宮島口桟橋からフェリーで宮島下船 (10 分 ) 徒歩 20 分 (2) 広島駅より市電又はバスで広島宇品港下車 (30 分 ) 高速船で宮島下船 (22 分 ) 徒歩 20 分 Date Apr. 15 ~ Apr. 18 Tokasai (Peach-blossom Festival) & Shin-Noh (Noh performance) at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima-machi, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Pref. On the 15th, Tokasai Bugaku (ancient court dance with music) is dedicated to the Shrine from around 6 pm to around 8 pm. Shin-Noh (classical masked drama dedicated to the Shrine) is performed on Noh-butai (Noh stage) from around 9 am to around 4 pm on the 16th & the 17th, and from 9 am to 3 pm on the 18th. (1) The JR Sanyo Honsen Line to Miyajima-guchi Sta., and then walk 5 min. to Miyajima-guchi Pier. From there, 10 min. by ferryboat to Miyajima Pier, and then walk 10 min. to the Shrine. (2) 30 min. by streetcar or by bus from Hiroshima Sta. to Hiroshima Ujina Port. From there, 30 min. by hydrofoil to Miyajima Pier, and then walk 10 min. to the Shrine. 広島県廿日市市宮島町厳島神社 桃花祭と神能 (1) JR 山陽本線宮島口駅より徒歩 5 分の宮島口桟橋からフェリーで宮島下船 (10 分 ) 徒歩 10 分 (2) 広島駅より市電又はバスで広島宇品港下車 (30 分 ) 高速船で宮島下船 (22 分 ) 徒歩 10 分 KYUSHU & OKINAWA 九州沖縄 Date Feb. 11 ~ Apr. 3 Yanagawa Hina Matsuri Sagemon Meguri, or Girl's Festival of Yanagawa, Fukuoka Pref. Sagemon are handsewn ornamants which are displayed all over the city for this festival. When a baby girl is born, her mother and grandmothers sew Sagemon stitch by stitch wishing her to grow up healthy, and decorate them at both sides of Hina dolls to celebrate her first Girl's Festival. On Feb. 11th, a procession of girls and adults in traditional Hina doll attire, and floats adorned with colorful Sagemon, takes place from 10 am. On Mar. 16th, a parade of girls and adults dressed in Hina doll costumes sitting on the boats sails through the canals bedecked with Sagemon from 11 am to 12:20 pm. On Apr. 3rd, Nagashibina (floating paper dolls ceremony) starts from 10 am to 12 noon. Many more events are scheduled during the period. The JR Kyushu Shinkansen Line or Kagoshima Honsen Line to Chikugo Funagoya Sta., and then 21min. by the Nishitetsu Bus to the Yanagawa Bus Stop. 福岡県柳川市 柳川雛祭りさげもんめぐり JR 九州新幹線又は鹿児島本線筑後船小屋駅より西鉄バスで 21 分柳川下車 7

14 Date Apr. 1 ~ Apr. 6 Imari Haru-no Kamamoto Ichi or Imari Kamamoto Matsuri, Ceramic Fair at Ohkawachi, Imari, Saga Pref., is held at the Ohkawachi-yama area in the city from around 8:30 am to around 5 pm during the period. 30 Kamamoto (kilns) in this area participate in this event. (1) 1 hr. 30 min. by JR Limited Express "Midori" from Hakata Sta. to Arita Sta., and then take the Matsuura Railways (the Nishi Kyushu Line) to Imari Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus to Ohkawachi-yama Bus Stop. (2) From Hakata Kotsu Center, 1 hr. 40 min. by Highway Bus to Imari Sta. From there, 10 min. by bus to Ohkawachiyama Bus Stop. 佐賀県伊万里市大川内町大川内山 ( 窯元群 ) いまり春の窯元市 (1) 博多より JR 特急 " みどり " で有田駅まで行き (1 時間半 ) 松浦鉄道 西九州線に乗り換えて伊万里駅下車 そこよりバスで 10 分 大川内山バス停下車 (2) 博多交通センターから高速バスで 1 時間 40 分伊万里駅下車 そこよりバスで 10 分 大川内山 ( おおかわちやま ) バス停下車 Date Apr. 29 Hayama Matsuri or Jankan Uma-Odori (Horse Dancing) of Hayama Shrine, Hayama, Miyazaki Pref. This festival with a 100-year history is to pray for a good harvest of the year. A horse attractively adorned with bells, artificial flowers, rice stalks and flag-shaped decoration, gallops on the ground to the tune of music, which makes the bell-sound "jankan! jankan!", being followed by people performing local dance in Hayama Park, from 9 am to 3 pm. The JR Nippo Line to Mimata Sta., and then walk 30 min. or 5 min. by taxi to Hayama Jinja (Shrine). 宮崎県三股町 早馬まつり ( ジャンカン馬踊り ) JR 日豊線三股駅より徒歩 30 分 またはタクシーで 5 分で三股神社 Date Apr. 29 ~ May. 5 Arita Toki Matsuri, Ceramic Fair at Arita-cho, Nishi-Matsuura-gun, Saga Pref. The fair participated by about 500 stalls is held along "Kyudo " route (about 5 km), which connects Kami- Arita Sta. and Arita Sta. on the JR Sasebo Line, from around 8 am to 5 pm daily during the fair period. 1 hr. 30 min. by JR Limited Express "Midori" from Hakata to Kami-Arita Sta. or Arita Sta. on Sasebo Line. (Walking from Kami-Arita Sta. is an easier access to the fair site as a long downward slope extends to Arita Sta.) 佐賀県西松浦郡有田町 有田陶器市博多より JR 特急 " みどり " で 1 時間半 佐世保線の上有田駅又は有田駅下車 ( 有田駅まで下り坂なので 上有田駅より歩いたほうが良い ) 8