Japanese Festivals are Colourful Celebrations

There is always something happening in Japan andFor culture lovers who want to sample some of
whatever your interest there is an event for youthe fascinating Japan boasts a rich sporting history
to enjoy.and has plenty to offer both spectators and
You can thrill to the spectacle of a Sumoparticipants alike.
tournament, experience the breathtaking colour ofMartial arts such as Sumo, Karate and Kendo
a fireworks festival or marvel at the ornatehave been popular for centuries and these
costumes and settings of Kabuki drama. Includingtraditional sports are still widely enjoyed today.
an event in your travel plans offers a uniqueSumo wrestling is one of the most exciting
opportunity to take part in the Japanese culturespectator sports for both visitors and locals. Six
and meet some of the locals, and is a wonderfultournaments, each lasting 15 days, are held
way to make your trip to Japan even moreannually in Tokyo in January, May and September.
memorable.Over recent years Japan has also embraced a
Japanese Festivals are colourful celebrations thatnumber of western sports, including golf, skiing &
reflect the countries ancient religious beliefs andsnowboarding, baseball and football. Baseball is
mark the passing of the seasons. They are anJapans number one sport and the professional
important part of life in Japan and can be enjoyedleague games, which take place from April to
in cities and towns throughout the country.October, are a highlight of the sporting calendar.
Whatever time of year you decide to visit, thereLightweight cottons and linens are required
is sure to be a festival taking place somewhere inthroughout summer in most areas. Light to
Japan, from elaborate displays of snow and icemedium weights during spring and autumn,
sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival to livelymedium to heavyweights for winter months,
summer events like the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomoriaccording to region. Much warmer clothes will be
with its parade of giant illuminated figures.needed in the mountains all year round. There is
Japan offers visitors a wealth of entertainmentmuch less rainfall than in Western Europe.
opportunities, both modern and traditional.Japanese style hotels now provide exciting new
Contemporary diversions include clubs, discos, liveexperiences. Guests receive kimonos and wooden
music venues and bars, as well as internationalclogs and rooms come equipped with Japanese
performance arts such as opera, ballet, dramabathtubs and paper sliding doors.
and musicals.