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<\/a>July 17, Gion Matsuri, Kyoto<\/b><\/p>\n
Probably the most well-known festival in the Kansai region, if not Japan, it includes enormous and impressively decorated floats known as yama and hoko. These floats are then pulled by group of volunteers and painstakingly turned using wooden slats at corners. Although the floats can be viewed throughout the month of July the biggest parade is on July 17with a smaller procession on July 24.<\/p>\n
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July 25, Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka<\/b><\/p>\n
Though actually starting on July 24, the main events for this festival occur on the second day, July 25. Similar to Gion Matsuri in that there is a parade through Osaka starting at Tenmangu Shrine, Tenjin stands out due to the water procession that follows the one on land.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n Late July, Samba Festa<\/b>, Kobe<\/b><\/p>\n Apparently Kobe is the home of Samba in Japan, who knew. Catch enthusiasts of this music and dance, originating from Brazil walk the streets of Sannomiya.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Early August, Minato Firework Festival, Kobe<\/b><\/p>\n Head out to Kobe Harborland for an evening full of fireworks and delicious finger foods. Get there early and grab a spot before it gets too crowded.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n August 3 -5, Taga Taisha Lantern Festival, Shiga<\/b><\/p>\n Not only will you be able to catch a wonderful display of lanterns at Taga Taisha Shrine, but it\u00e2\u20ac\u2122s also known in Japan for matchmaking and longevity. Perfect for summer love.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n August 8, Biwako Hanabi Matsuri, Shiga<\/b><\/p>\n Though similar to the other firework festivals throughout the summer, this one gives you the additional bonus of visiting beautiful Lake Biwa. Supposedly one of the best in Japan, though I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122ve learned by now that most prefectures like to boast about things that can\u00e2\u20ac\u2122t be measured and are extremely subjective.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/a>