The Tokyo Traveler

Candle lit lanterns floating on the water – it’s a beautiful sight and one that you can take in during the month of July in Tokyo.  Toro Nagashi, or “lantern offerings on the water,” is just one ceremony that Buddhists use during the Obon festival to memorialize the spirits of the dead and ensure their safe journey and happiness on the ‘other world’.
Toro Nagashi in Tokyo:
Imperial Palace Moat – July 13th from 6:30 to 7:30PM.  The lanterns are best viewed from Chidorigafuchi Park.  The park is a short walk from the Kudanshita Station on Tokyo Metro. (access map – scroll …read more

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Summer in Japan is well known for it’s heat and humidity but it is also time to dust of your yukata (summer kimono) and head out to a festival or to your local park for a bento picnic. You can also catch some great hanabi (fireworks) shows or head out to a baseball game.
Many festivals are held throughout the year and you can attend one on almost any weekend during the summer months. The Japan Times provides a Monthly Guide to Festivals in Japan which is a great resource for visitors and residents alike. Attending a …read more

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