Major Events & Festivals in Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan

1. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter Festival

Annual event showcasing traditional houses and canal area in a vibrant display of lights.

Carp streamers flying high during autumn's changing colors.

Autumn Scenery: See the beauty of fall foliage combined with carp decorations.
Festival Foods: Taste traditional festival foods like yakisoba and takoyaki.
Giant Koi-nobori: Admire the towering, colorful carp streamers throughout the city.

Celebration of the rare white herons inhabiting the area.

Rare Wildlife: Witness the graceful white herons in their natural habitat.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning images of these rare birds.
Heritage Site: Explore the historical sites and wildlife areas around the city.

Floating lanterns on the riverside create a magical atmosphere.

Romantic Atmosphere: Experience a peaceful, romantic setting with your loved one.
Wish-Making Opportunity: Write a wish on a lantern and release it into the sky.
Community Gathering: Join locals and visitors alike in this annual event.

A picturesque square covered in ivy during autumn.

Autumn Scenery: See the beauty of fall foliage combined with ivy.
Garden Photography: Capture beautiful photos in this Instagram-worthy setting.
Cultural Performances: Witness traditional dance and music performances.

Explosive firework displays over the beautiful Kurashiki port.

Traditional event featuring the breaking of large rice cakes.

Cultural Tradition: Experience a centuries-old tradition.
Local Food Tasting: Sample delicious Kagami-mochi and other traditional treats.
Community Participation: Join in the fun of breaking the giant rice cakes.

A festival featuring the throwing of wooden clappers.

Unique Tradition: Witness a unique tradition not found elsewhere.
Community Interaction: Join locals in this lively celebration.
Festival Foods: Taste traditional festival foods like yakisoba and takoyaki.

Celebration of the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

Natural Beauty: Marvel at the stunning beauty of the cherry blossoms.
Photography Opportunities: Capture beautiful photos of the cherry blossoms.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing): Enjoy a peaceful hanami (cherry blossom viewing) session with friends and family.

Celebration of the traditional Boys' Day festival.

Japanese Culture: Immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Samurai-inspired Decorations: See samurai-themed decorations and costumes.
Traditional Performances: Witness traditional performances like kabuki and karate demonstrations.

A summer festival featuring beautiful firework displays.

Stunning Fireworks: Be amazed by the colorful and impressive firework shows.
Community Gathering: Join locals and visitors alike in this annual event.
Food Stalls: Sample delicious festival foods while watching the fireworks.

A traditional event showcasing dolls and doll-making workshops.

Cultural Tradition: Learn about a centuries-old tradition.
Doll Exhibitions: See beautiful dolls on display.
Hands-on Workshops: Participate in workshops to learn how to make your own traditional dolls.

Celebration of the autumn leaves in Kurashiki's beautiful gardens.

Beautiful winter light displays throughout the city.

Romantic Atmosphere: Experience a peaceful, romantic setting.
Wish-Making Opportunity: Write a wish on a lantern and release it into the night sky.
Community Gathering: Join locals and visitors alike in this annual event.

Nighttime cherry blossom viewing with beautiful lanterns.

Romantic Atmosphere: Experience a peaceful, romantic setting.
Lantern Lighting: Enjoy thousands of lanterns illuminating the cherry blossoms.
Cultural Performances: Witness traditional dance and music performances.