Ganjitsu ~ 1 Jan. Everyone heads to the shrines to welcome in the new year and pray for good fortune.
Seijin-no-hi (Adult Day) ~ 15 Jan. Twenty year olds make their way to local shrines dressed in their best kimono and suits for blessings and to celebrate their entry into adulthood.
Yamayaki (turf burning festival) ~ 15 Jan. Held in Wakayama, Nara, people dress in traditional warrior-monk dress clothing while they burn turf.
February
Setsubun ~ 3 or 4 Feb. On the last day of winter people scatter soybeans around their homes and at shrines to drive out evil and to welcome in the years good luck.
Yuki Matsuri (snow festival) ~ 5-11 Feb. Held in Sapporo, Hokkaido. Beautiful ice sculptures are the attraction of this hugely popular event.
March
Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival) ~ 3 March During this festival families with young daughters display sets of fifteen dolls representing the Emperor, Empress and ancient figures from the Imperial Court.
Hanami (Blossom Viewing) Cherry blossom viewing is taken place from late March to early May and is celebrated throughout Japan with blossom viewing parties and festivals.
April
Hana Matsuri ~ 8 April Buddha's birthday is celebrated at all temples with parades, and a small statue of the infant Buddha is sprinkled with sweet tea.
Takayama Matsuri ~ 14-15 April Parade of ornate yatai (festival floats)
