HED/Hiroshima: Essential Discoveries/Local Events & Festivals

Local Events & Festivals

Local Events & Festivals

Spring (March – May)

Hiroshima Flower Festival (May 3–5)

One of Japan's largest golden week events, featuring parades, stage performances, and a message of peace symbolized by flowers.
 

Miyajima Peach Blossom Festival - Toka-sai (April)

A traditional Bugaku (ancient court dance) performance held on the floating stage of Itsukushima Shrine.
 

Summer (June – August)

Peace Memorial Ceremony (August 6)

A solemn ceremony to commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing and to pray for lasting world peace. The evening "Lantern Floating" (Toro Nagashi) is deeply moving.
 

Kangensai Festival (July/August)

The largest ritual at Itsukushima Shrine, where a decorated boat sails across the sea, recreating a Heian-period imperial ceremony.
 

Autumn (September – November)

Saijo Sake Festival (October)

A paradise for sake lovers. Visitors can taste various types of sake from all over Japan in the brewery district of Saijo.
 

Onomichi Betcha Festival (November)

A unique and energetic festival where "demons" roam the streets to drive away evil spirits and bring good health to children.
 

Winter (December – February)

Chinkasai Fire Festival at Itsukushima Shrine (Dec 31)

Held on New Year's Eve, this energetic fire festival is performed to pray for fire prevention. Locals carry large pine torches through the streets of Miyajima, creating a spectacular and fiery scene against the night sky.