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Seasonal
Festivals, hanami, and busy travel seasons.
6 rules published
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New Year in Japan 2026: What's Open, What's Closed
Oshogatsu (Jan 1–3) is Japan's biggest holiday. Most shops shut, shrines are packed for hatsumode, and the vibe shifts completely. Here's what to expect.
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Hanabi Festival Etiquette: Japan's Summer Fireworks Guide
Hanabi festivals draw hundreds of thousands. Yukata, planned group spots, strict space-claiming rules — here's how to enjoy it without crowding anyone.
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Hanami Rules 2026: Cherry Blossom Viewing Etiquette
Millions picnic under the cherry trees for two short weeks. Don't trample the roots, don't grab extra space, and carry all your trash out.
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Koyo Viewing in Japan: 2026 Autumn Leaves Etiquette
Maple and ginkgo season (late Oct–mid Dec) draws huge crowds. Don't pick leaves, don't block paths, and know the temple garden rules before you go.
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Matsuri Etiquette: How to Behave at a Japanese Festival
A matsuri is a local shrine festival with portable shrines, parades, and food stalls. Tourists are welcome — here's where to stand, photograph, and don't.
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Setsubun: Bean-Throwing, Silent Sushi, and the February 3 Ritual
Early February — throw roasted beans to chase out bad luck, eat a giant sushi roll in total silence facing that year's lucky direction, and eat your age in beans. Here's how to do it right.
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