Featured Events in Japan in April 2025 (April Updated)

The Tenjin Festival in Osaka, the Kanda Festival in Tokyo, and the Gion Festival in Kyoto are also known as the three major festivals in Japan; at the same time, they are also known as the three major festivals in Osaka in summer together with the Aizen Festival and the Sumiyoshi Festival. It is an urban festival attended by 1.3 million people every year, and it is very lively. Centered on the land guarded by the gods in Osaka Tenjin Shrine, the Night Palace Festival is held on July 24th and the Hongu Festival on July 25th every year. Various events will be held from auspicious days in late June, among which the more famous ones are: "Girl's Mikoshi" - a mikoshi carried by women that parade in front of Tenjin-Hashisuji Shopping Street on July 23 , "Luduyu" - a parade on the land guarded by the gods from the land, "Funatoyu" - a water parade after the "Luduyu", "Honoka Fireworks" - an invitation to the gods in Hongu Enjoy the fireworks event. If you come to Osaka in late July, you might as well come to Tenmangu Shrine and join the locals to participate in this time-honored and very interesting festival.

The Tenjin Festival in Osaka, the Kanda Festival in Tokyo, and the Gion Festival in Kyoto are also known as the three major festivals in Japan; at the same time, they are also known as the three major festivals in Osaka in summer together with the Aizen Festival and the Sumiyoshi Festival. It is an urban festival attended by 1.3 million people every year, and it is very lively. Centered on the land guarded by the gods in Osaka Tenjin Shrine, the Night Palace Festival is held on July 24th and the Hongu Festival on July 25th every year. Various events will be held from auspicious days in late June, among which the more famous ones are: "Girl's Mikoshi" - a mikoshi carried by women that parade in front of Tenjin-Hashisuji Shopping Street on July 23 , "Luduyu" - a parade on the land guarded by the gods from the land, "Funatoyu" - a water parade after the "Luduyu", "Honoka Fireworks" - an invitation to the gods in Hongu Enjoy the fireworks event. If you come to Osaka in late July, you might as well come to Tenmangu Shrine and join the locals to participate in this time-honored and very interesting festival.

The official name of Sensoji Temple comes from the Golden Dragon Mountain, and it is called "Golden Dragon Mountain Sensoji Temple", and the name "Golden Dragon Dance" comes from the name of this mountain. "Golden Dragon Dance" is a dance that started in 1958 to commemorate the reconstruction of the main hall of Sensoji Temple, Kannon Hall. This dance is based on the story of Guanyin Bodhisattva enshrined in Sensoji Temple. According to legend, she appeared as a golden dragon that descended from the sky, and overnight she created a thousand pine trees that symbolize a good harvest. The 18-meter-long, 88-kilogram shining golden dragon dances gorgeously to the music of the celebration, and this scene is absolutely impressive.

"Design Ah! Neo" is an exhibition that expands the concept of the program "Design Ah! Neo" currently airing on NHK Educational TV into an experiential space. It has been held as a "Design Ah! Exhibition" at 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT in 2013, and at six museums across the country, including the Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, and the Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art from 2018 to 2021. The third "Design Ah! Neo" exhibition will exhibit new works with new themes, while retaining the concept of encouraging children to enjoy various thoughts and discoveries about design.

神保町よしもとお笑いライブ GWSPが、2025年4月29日に東京都千代田区の神保町シアターで開催されます。この特別なイベントは、笑いと音楽が融合したエンターテイメントの祭典です。お笑いファン必見のこのライブでは、人気芸人たちが集結し、観客を笑いの渦に巻き込みます。チケットは1枚3500円で、15:00から始まるこのライブは、ゴールデンウィークの特別な思い出になること間違いなしです。神保町で最高の笑いと音楽を楽しむ一日をお見逃しなく！

The Tenjin Festival in Osaka, the Kanda Festival in Tokyo, and the Gion Festival in Kyoto are also known as the three major festivals in Japan; at the same time, they are also known as the three major festivals in Osaka in summer together with the Aizen Festival and the Sumiyoshi Festival. It is an urban festival attended by 1.3 million people every year, and it is very lively. Centered on the land guarded by the gods in Osaka Tenjin Shrine, the Night Palace Festival is held on July 24th and the Hongu Festival on July 25th every year. Various events will be held from auspicious days in late June, among which the more famous ones are: "Girl's Mikoshi" - a mikoshi carried by women that parade in front of Tenjin-Hashisuji Shopping Street on July 23 , "Luduyu" - a parade on the land guarded by the gods from the land, "Funatoyu" - a water parade after the "Luduyu", "Honoka Fireworks" - an invitation to the gods in Hongu Enjoy the fireworks event. If you come to Osaka in late July, you might as well come to Tenmangu Shrine and join the locals to participate in this time-honored and very interesting festival.

The Tenjin Festival in Osaka, the Kanda Festival in Tokyo, and the Gion Festival in Kyoto are also known as the three major festivals in Japan; at the same time, they are also known as the three major festivals in Osaka in summer together with the Aizen Festival and the Sumiyoshi Festival. It is an urban festival attended by 1.3 million people every year, and it is very lively. Centered on the land guarded by the gods in Osaka Tenjin Shrine, the Night Palace Festival is held on July 24th and the Hongu Festival on July 25th every year. Various events will be held from auspicious days in late June, among which the more famous ones are: "Girl's Mikoshi" - a mikoshi carried by women that parade in front of Tenjin-Hashisuji Shopping Street on July 23 , "Luduyu" - a parade on the land guarded by the gods from the land, "Funatoyu" - a water parade after the "Luduyu", "Honoka Fireworks" - an invitation to the gods in Hongu Enjoy the fireworks event. If you come to Osaka in late July, you might as well come to Tenmangu Shrine and join the locals to participate in this time-honored and very interesting festival.

Ramses The Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs will feature 183 pieces of rare artefacts from ancient Egypt that focus on the almighty pharaoh, Ramses The Great and it will be the largest collection of artefacts on Ramses II to ever leave Egypt. This spectacular exhibition will also boast the FIRST ever virtual walkthrough of Ramses II’s famous temples as well as a full-length documentary ever produced on Ramses II’s tomb.

The official name of Sensoji Temple comes from the Golden Dragon Mountain, and it is called "Golden Dragon Mountain Sensoji Temple", and the name "Golden Dragon Dance" comes from the name of this mountain. "Golden Dragon Dance" is a dance that started in 1958 to commemorate the reconstruction of the main hall of Sensoji Temple, Kannon Hall. This dance is based on the story of Guanyin Bodhisattva enshrined in Sensoji Temple. According to legend, she appeared as a golden dragon that descended from the sky, and overnight she created a thousand pine trees that symbolize a good harvest. The 18-meter-long, 88-kilogram shining golden dragon dances gorgeously to the music of the celebration, and this scene is absolutely impressive.

Ying Ying takes as her subject matters events and systems in society that are invisible or ungraspable, such as slaughterhouses, oil extraction, the steam cycle, and the wool industry, and attempts to "approach" them through performances using life-size installations. The performances consist of installations made of everyday objects such as wood, cloth, and plastic, and the inadvertent actions of moving these installations, which are interpreted and reconstructed by the artist and presented in the form of a series of abstract mechanisms. The "Approach" series can be said to be a practice in which the artist herself turns her gaze and approaches the "unknowable". This is not only a repetitive act for understanding, but also a reflection of the way we look at the work. The exhibition will show works presented in various ways, including immediate or conceptual understanding, misreading, and misunderstanding.

The immensely popular series 【OSHI NO KO】, celebrated both domestically and internationally, is a masterpiece created by the renowned duo Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari. The story offers a fresh take on the entertainment industry, following the life of Gorou, an obstetrician in a rural town, whose fateful encounter with his favorite idol, Ai from the group “B-Komachi”, sets the stage for a gripping narrative. The TV anime adaptation of 【OSHI NO KO】 debuted in April 2023 and has captivated audiences not only with its compelling storyline but also with its music. The announcement of the third season has further heightened its popularity.This special exhibition offers visitors the chance to delve into the world of 【OSHI NO KO】. Through iconic scene displays, life-size character panels, and photo spots, guests can relive memorable moments and experience the charm of the anime’s idols and characters. A highlight of the exhibition is the interactive section where fans can enjoy live performances of “B-Komachi” and respond to them, making this an immersive experience like no other.

The immensely popular series 【OSHI NO KO】, celebrated both domestically and internationally, is a masterpiece created by the renowned duo Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari. The story offers a fresh take on the entertainment industry, following the life of Gorou, an obstetrician in a rural town, whose fateful encounter with his favorite idol, Ai from the group “B-Komachi”, sets the stage for a gripping narrative. The TV anime adaptation of 【OSHI NO KO】 debuted in April 2023 and has captivated audiences not only with its compelling storyline but also with its music. The announcement of the third season has further heightened its popularity.This special exhibition offers visitors the chance to delve into the world of 【OSHI NO KO】. Through iconic scene displays, life-size character panels, and photo spots, guests can relive memorable moments and experience the charm of the anime’s idols and characters. A highlight of the exhibition is the interactive section where fans can enjoy live performances of “B-Komachi” and respond to them, making this an immersive experience like no other.

This exhibition will trace the 60-plus year history of Sanrio, the company that has created many popular characters such as Hello Kitty and My Melody, through the "kawaii" culture that has become a global language. The exhibition will also focus on the background to the creation of the characters and how they developed, and will feature hundreds of exhibits such as precious original drawings, related materials, and nostalgic goods from that time. There will also be an exhibit of collaborative works with contemporary artists inspired by Sanrio characters.

Tsutaya Juzaburo (1750-97), a prominent publisher in the Edo period, is known for publishing Ukiyo-e artists such as Kitagawa Utamaro and Toshusai Sharaku, who are now considered world-class artists. This exhibition takes a close look at Tsutaju's activities, showcasing the diverse culture of Edo, focusing on the Tenmei and Kansei periods (1781-1801). With the red-light district and kabuki of Edo as his backdrop, Tsutaju deepened his friendships with kyoka poets and comic poets during the rise of kyoka poetry. He expanded his network of samurai, wealthy townspeople, popular actors, comic poets, and artists in every direction, linking various fields and introducing various new ideas to the publishing industry through a kind of media mix. Tsutajyu used his business acumen to endlessly innovate the content business. What is rooted in this is a thorough user (consumer) perspective, and the vitality with which he pursued things that people would enjoy and find interesting. This exhibition is in collaboration with NHK's 2025 taiga drama "Berabou: Tsutaju Eika no Yumebanashi," which will feature Tsutaya Jusaburo as the main character. Through a look at Tsutaju's publishing activities along with aspects of the Edo cityscape, visitors will be able to experience not only the part Tsutaju played in the publishing culture of the late Edo period, but also the values ​​and artistry that he created.

From March to May 2025, the highly popular Korean group TXT's world tour will land in Japan! Since their debut, TXT has attracted countless fans worldwide with their captivating stage performances and youthful image. Their music is filled with youth, dreams, and courage, and their stage presence and musical style continue to evolve. Their performances around the world bring fans a soul-stirring musical experience. Are you ready? Join YEONJUN, SOOBIN, BEOMGYU, TAEHYUN, and HUENINGKAI on this musical journey and experience the unique musical charm of TXT amidst stunning stage lights and passionate performances!

Okinawa enjoys sunshine and warm weather all year round, which has given rise to a wide variety of colorful flower resorts. From January to May every year, various flowers bloom in various parts of Okinawa, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful flower feast. Some of the grand events include the Higashimura Azalea Festival, the Ie Island Lily Festival, and the Okinawa Bougainvillea Flower Show.

There are many "borders" in our daily lives. These boundaries range from physical to psychological, social and cultural, and shape our actions, thoughts and values. However, artists attempt to dismantle these existing frameworks and present new perspectives on identity, culture, physical space, time and genre. This exhibition introduces works that question the very nature of what we call "borders." Artists scheduled to be exhibited: Ming Wong, Alin Runjiang, Evelyn Tao-Chen Wang, Mika Tajima, Chikako Yamashiro, Christian Boltanski, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Danh Vo, Wolfgang Tillmans, and more.

Nearly half a century has passed since the appearance of home game consoles - "video games," which began with pixel art, have now created many new worlds with beautiful images that rival those of movies. Games have become widespread in our lives and a part of popular culture, and it can be said that they have evolved into a comprehensive art that crosses the fields of technology and expression and demonstrates the creativity and individuality of creators. Capcom, headquartered in Osaka, has developed many titles and fascinated people around the world since its founding in 1983 and has grown into a global game software manufacturer. This exhibition will generously introduce the grand process of game creation, including proposals and original drawings made by the developers' hands, graphic work such as posters and packages, experiential content, and the latest technology, as well as the imagination and realization skills of the creators involved, creating an opportunity to reexamine Japan's proud game culture.

Nearly half a century has passed since the appearance of home game consoles - "video games," which began with pixel art, have now created many new worlds with beautiful images that rival those of movies. Games have become widespread in our lives and a part of popular culture, and it can be said that they have evolved into a comprehensive art that crosses the fields of technology and expression and demonstrates the creativity and individuality of creators. Capcom, headquartered in Osaka, has developed many titles and fascinated people around the world since its founding in 1983 and has grown into a global game software manufacturer. This exhibition will generously introduce the grand process of game creation, including proposals and original drawings made by the developers' hands, graphic work such as posters and packages, experiential content, and the latest technology, as well as the imagination and realization skills of the creators involved, creating an opportunity to reexamine Japan's proud game culture.

Nearly half a century has passed since the appearance of home game consoles - "video games," which began with pixel art, have now created many new worlds with beautiful images that rival those of movies. Games have become widespread in our lives and a part of popular culture, and it can be said that they have evolved into a comprehensive art that crosses the fields of technology and expression and demonstrates the creativity and individuality of creators. Capcom, headquartered in Osaka, has developed many titles and fascinated people around the world since its founding in 1983 and has grown into a global game software manufacturer. This exhibition will generously introduce the grand process of game creation, including proposals and original drawings made by the developers' hands, graphic work such as posters and packages, experiential content, and the latest technology, as well as the imagination and realization skills of the creators involved, creating an opportunity to reexamine Japan's proud game culture.

Connecting the world and Kyoto through the art of photography KYOTOGRAPHIE International Photography Festival 2025 is Japan's leading international photography art festival, which will be held from Saturday, April 12th to Sunday, May 11th, 2025 in Kyoto, a city steeped in history and tradition. This year, a diverse range of artists from around the world will gather to share their diverse perspectives and stories through photography. Theme for 2025: "HUMANITY" We will explore "HUMANITY" from both Japanese and Western cultural perspectives, focusing on the essence of who we are as humans, such as love, empathy, and the ability to overcome crises. Fourteen artists and groups from ten countries will participate, and through each exhibition they will question our individual existence and highlight the possibilities for connection and harmony with others. Historical architecture unique to Kyoto × contemporary photography The exhibition will take place in venues that are normally closed to the public and spaces of great cultural value, such as townhouses, temples, sake breweries, and modern architecture in Kyoto City. The unique spatial experience-based photography exhibition, born from the resonance between the artwork and the architecture, is a charm unique to KYOTOGRAPHIE. An art festival that brings photography closer to everyone and that everyone can enjoy During the event, there will not only be a photo exhibition, but also a wide range of experiential events such as artist talks, workshops, and programs for kids. Additionally, the open exhibition "KG+," known as a stepping stone for young photographers, will feature over 150 exhibitions scheduled to be held in various locations throughout Kyoto City. Experience "Connecting the World through Photography" in Kyoto A moving spring arts festival where people and cultures intersect through photography. As you encounter works that connect history and the future, and the individual and society, you will be prompted to reconsider the question, "How should we live?"

"Design Ah! Neo" is an exhibition that expands the concept of the program "Design Ah! Neo" currently airing on NHK Educational TV into an experiential space. It has been held as a "Design Ah! Exhibition" at 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT in 2013, and at six museums across the country, including the Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, and the Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art from 2018 to 2021. The third "Design Ah! Neo" exhibition will exhibit new works with new themes, while retaining the concept of encouraging children to enjoy various thoughts and discoveries about design.

Experience the floating world of Edo as seen by Hokusai through technology. The works of Katsushika Hokusai, which everyone has seen at least once, are reproduced in high-definition images with a sense of realism using ultra-high definition image data and Sony's Crystal LED LED display. In addition, with effects such as Sony's haptics technology that makes it feel as if the floor has turned into a puddle or a sandy beach, visitors can experience the scenery and walking sensation of Edo as Hokusai saw it with an overwhelming sense of immersion. During the event, collaborative goods with brands that represent Japanese craftsmanship and are inspired by Katsushika Hokusai will also be on sale.

In the early 20th century, the "City of Art, Paris" attracted many artists from around the world. Young artists gathered in communal studio residences such as "Bateau-Lavoir" in Montmartre and "La Ruche" in Montparnasse, where they deepened their exchanges and devoted themselves to their creations. This group of artists, later known as the "École de Paris," consisted mainly of painters and sculptors who came to Paris from outside France, gathering primarily in Montparnasse. Notable artists included Russians like Chagall and Soutine, Italians like Modigliani, Bulgarians like Pascin, Poles like Kisling, and Japanese artists like Tsuguharu Foujita, as well as French painters like Utrillo and Laurencin. They did not work under a specific art theory or movement, unlike certain schools or art movements. However, they were inspired by new artistic styles and theories such as Fauvism and Cubism, and sometimes drew inspiration from primitive arts, including those from Africa. Each artist explored unique expressions rooted in their own country's traditions and ethnic characteristics. The École de Paris reached its peak in the 1920s and effectively came to an end with the onset of World War II, but during its time, the artists of the École de Paris brought forth a diverse and rich flowering of art in Paris.

Ramses The Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs will feature 183 pieces of rare artefacts from ancient Egypt that focus on the almighty pharaoh, Ramses The Great and it will be the largest collection of artefacts on Ramses II to ever leave Egypt. This spectacular exhibition will also boast the FIRST ever virtual walkthrough of Ramses II’s famous temples as well as a full-length documentary ever produced on Ramses II’s tomb.

Born in Osaka and self-taught in architecture, Tadao Ando began his architectural design career in 1969. Since then, he has produced a succession of innovative architectural works that break through preconceived notions. Since the 1990s, he has expanded his scope of activity to the world, while also working hard on social contribution projects such as environmental restoration and earthquake recovery. His vigorous work across many fields, going beyond the framework of an architect, has earned him high praise both at home and abroad. This exhibition, which will be held in Osaka, where Ando remains based, will bring together the history of his grand challenges as well as his vision for the present and future, providing a comprehensive view of the work of Tadao Ando. Please come and experience that energy for yourself. The venue is "VS." at Gran Green Osaka, the forefront of the Osaka urban renewal project, where Ando has also worked hard for many years.

2025年4月29日、福岡市のホークスタウンにて、初音ミクの待望のライブツアー「初音ミク JAPAN LIVE TOUR 2025 ～BLOOMING～」が開催されます。この特別な音楽フェスティバルでは、初音ミクが最新のテクノロジーと共に華麗なパフォーマンスを披露し、観客を魅了します。チケットは一枚20000円で、音楽ファンにとって見逃せない一日となることでしょう。福岡市でのこの一大イベントで、初音ミクと共に素晴らしい音楽の花を咲かせましょう。