December 2024 Calendar: Five Cool Events in Japan!

Are you planning a trip to Japan this winter, eager to make the most of your visit? You’re in the right place! Here are some local events to put on your December 2024 calendar!

Hakodate Christmas Fantasy

Hakodate is located in Hokkaido and is known for its spectacular views from Mount Hakodate and its delicious, fresh seafood. During winter, the region becomes a wonderland as snow blankets everything. To contribute to this wonderland feeling, the city hosts an annual Christmas festival in front of the iconic Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. 

This festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience where the sandy shores of the local beach seamlessly blend with the snowy landscapes, creating a breathtaking contrast! Highlights of the Christmas festival include lighting a giant Christmas tree, fireworks, and a laser show. In addition to these highlights, there will be a particular soup bar where you can try various locally produced hearty soups. 

The Christmas festival runs from November 30th to December 25th. Not to mention, it’s mostly free, but some attractions may require a fee. You can access it by walking five minutes from the Jujigai Station tram stop on the Hakodate Municipal Line.

Bad-Mouthing Festival

Do you have some pent-up frustrations you need to release? The Bad-Mouthing Festival, or Akutai Matsuri, in Ashikaga, Tochigi Prefecture, is the perfect outlet! This unique festival dates back to the Edo Period (1603–1868) and was initially held to ward off evil spirits. The two-day event starts at 10:00 p.m. on December 31st and runs until the early hours of New Year’s Day, finishing around 3:00 a.m.

The festivities generally begin with registration at the Otokozakaguchi parking lot at the foot of the mountain, followed by a lantern-lit hike to Saisyoji Temple. Along the way, participants are encouraged to shout out their frustrations, with “bakayaro” (meaning “fool”) being a common exclamation. However, avoid words with the “bo” sound, like binbo (poverty).

Upon reaching the temple at midnight, visitors are offered amazake, a sweet low-alcohol drink. They can also participate in a purification ceremony. For 500 yen, you can write your misfortunes on a wooden tag. This tag will be burned to rid you of bad luck. Due to its remote location, the festival is best accessed by car. It is about a 20-minute drive from JR Ryomo Line Ashikaga Station.

Glover Garden Night Illumination

Experience the charm of Nagasaki’s history and culture at the Glover Garden Night Illumination, which usually runs nightly from November 7th to January 20th. The open-air museum also transforms into a dazzling wonderland, featuring stunning illuminations along cobblestone paths, lush landscapes, and Western-style mansions. As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, special events will be held in the garden.

A key highlight this winter is the Meiji Night Banquet. This digital art event uses projection mapping to illuminate the former Glover and Ringer Houses. These historic buildings, recognized as World Heritage Sites, serve as canvases for artwork inspired by the opera Madame Butterfly, set in Nagasaki during the Meiji era. The original background music from the opera enhances this immersive experience.

Glover Garden is near the Oura Cathedral tram stop and offers breathtaking views of Nagasaki Harbor. Tickets are 1000 yen ($8) for adults and 700 ($5) yen for high school students, with a soft drink included. Adults can upgrade to a beer for an additional 500 yen ($3). Don’t miss this unforgettable cultural experience!

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Ramen Expo in Osaka

Warm up this winter with a bowl or two of delicious ramen at the annual Ramen Expo in Osaka. The event takes place at Expo ’70 Park. It gathers top ramen shops from across Japan. Visitors can try regional flavors and creative twists on this beloved dish. With so many options, you’ll discover new and exciting flavors that delight your taste buds!

From rich, creamy tonkotsu broths to light, refreshing, salty ramen, the Ramen Expo has something to satisfy every palate. In addition to the incredible ramen variety, the event features live performances and fun activities. It’s the perfect outing for families, friends, or solo foodies looking to enjoy a delicious experience and lively atmosphere.

The Ramen Expo takes place on weekends from November 23rd to December 30th. Entrance to the park requires 260 yen, and ramen tickets are sold separately, so you can sample as many bowls as you’d like! The park is easily accessible via the Osaka Monorail Bampakukinenkoen Station. 

Zao Snow Monster Festival

The Zao Snow Monster Festival in Yamagata Prefecture celebrates Japan’s unique snow monsters, trees covered in frost shaped by snow and icy winds. These natural wonders create a surreal landscape on Mount Zao. The festival runs annually from December 28th to February 24th, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

The snow monsters are illuminated at night in vibrant colors, creating a breathtaking sight against the dark winter sky. Visitors can enjoy the view from a gondola ride or by walking along the illuminated paths. This magical atmosphere is a highlight of the festival.

The festival also features fireworks, local food stalls, and exciting winter activities like snowshoeing and sledding. It’s easily accessible by bus or car from Yamagata City. The Zao Snow Monster Festival is the perfect way to experience nature’s beauty alongside thrilling winter fun.

Why should I put these events on my December 2024 calendar?

You should attend these events because December in Japan offers an unforgettable mix of culture, history, and winter magic. Events like Hakodate’s Christmas Fantasy and the Bad-Mouthing Festival captivate locals and visitors. Each event provides unique and memorable experiences for travelers seeking holiday excitement.

These diverse events ensure your December trip to Japan is filled with warmth, wonder, and enchanting experiences that will linger long after your visit. Which event do you want to put on your December 2024 calendar? Let us know in the comments below!