For International Readers

In japan, we admire Plum blossoms or Ume before cherry blossoms bloom. In Kitano Tenmangu shrine, some Umes already bloom on 1/18/2026. Night illumination is available.

In 2026, Gion Ebessan/Ebisu festival takes place at Yasaka shrine. With lots of photos and video, you can learn about the festival like Ebessan boat and Seven Deities/Gods of fortune, etc.

Hakuba Soran Shinji is a Shinto ritual held at Kamigamo Jinja shrine in Kyoto on 1/7/2026. In the ritual, we see Shinme horse and eat Nanakusagayu. In this article, you see the best way to enjoy them!

Kemari dedication takes place at Shimogamo shrine on January. Kemari is a traditional Japanese foot ball game. Let us learn what Kemari is on video and text: its history, how to play it, and so on. Kemari Hajime is canceled 2021 due to COVID-19.

On December 31st and January 1st, people have Okerabi at Yasaka shrine. Let us learn its history and the way to enjoy them!