FIRE-WALKING FESTIVAL
Visit Mt . Takao for the thrilling Fire-Walking Festival , which spotlights bare-footed monks treading over smoldering embers . The Takaosan Yakuōin Yukiji Temple hosts the annual Fire-Walking Festival on the second Sunday in March . Worshippers pray for their families and protection from traffic accidents , then they follow chanting monks who walk over smoldering coals . At the end of the ceremony , the fire is extinguished , and visitors can try walking over the cooled embers .
Tokyo
Credit : © Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau
SUMIDA PARK CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
One of Japan ’ s most well-known celebrations is the cherry blossom festival . This springtime ritual happens all over the country but one of the most popular and accessible Sakura or cherry blossom festivals is at Sumida Park , which lines the Sumida River . The festival unfolds in late March and early April and showcases delicate pink flowers framing 510 trees along the riverbank . Locals have picnics or Hanami , cherry blossom viewing parties . At night , the trees are illuminated for nighttime viewing . Sailing on a traditional yakatabune boat or the Tokyo Water Boat is another fun way to view the blossoms .
SANNO FESTIVAL
Hie Shrine organizes the Sanno Festival , one of Tokyo ’ s most famous and culturally significant festivals , which dates back to the Edo period ( 1603-1867 ). Held in mid-June with festivities that span 11 days , the festival kicks off with a parade and procession of portable shrines called mikoshi , that are carried in a route all over the city . Other events include prayers for the safety of the Imperial Palace and peace in Tokyo , Shinto music and dance performances and a Sanno drum presentation .
GETTING THERE
ANA and United Airlines both offer nonstop flights to Haneda Airport ( HND ) from Dulles ( IAD ).
Oni Masks of the Setsuban Festival
Credit : akiyoko
During the Setsubun Festival , locals throw roasted soybeans at men dressed up as demons to ward off bad fortune for the year .
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