Waseda Regatta and More: Five Amazing April Events to Enjoy!
Karina Ikedo
Spring is in the air, with beautiful weather, cherry blossoms, and festivals! If you’re looking for things to do in Japan in April, you’re in luck. It’s the best month to catch some of the country’s most fabulous events. Waseda regatta and other fun events will ensure you welcome the spring season in the best way possible.
From pretty blossoms to vegan food festivals, these incredible experiences are all must-dos while you’re in Japan. We highlight five April events that will leave you wishing to attend festivals every season in Japan.
Waseda Regatta (April 23)
Japan’s version of the Cambridge-Oxford Boat Race, known as the Waseda Regatta, is over a century old. Every spring, the rowing clubs of Waseda and Keio, two of Japan’s most prestigious universities, compete on the Sumida River. The men’s race starts in the famous spot of Asakusa in downtown Tokyo and continues on the Sumida River.
There will be several boating races throughout the day, but the primary race will consist of teams of nine rowers. They all move as one to be the first boat to cross the finish line 3,750 meters away. Another highlight is the magnificent display by the two universities’ cheering squads. Spectators are welcome to view the races for free at many spots, including the finish area at Sakurabashi Bridge.
Belgian Beer Weekend Toyosu (April 5-7, April 12-14)
The Belgian Beer Weekend is the best occasion to explore Belgian beer culture! Join this event for one of the best weekends with great Belgian beers, food, and live music! Enjoy 84 different Belgian beers at this iconic festival in Toyosu. The extensive lineup ranges from the standard Chimay and Duvel to rarer beers like Chouffe and Omer.
When you buy the ticket, you get a Belgian Beer glass to keep; it’s the perfect souvenir for beer lovers. There will also be delicious chargrilled food and scenic views of Toyosu Bay.
Looking for some great snacking while enjoying these March events? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!
Sakura Genesis 2024 (April 6)
Each year, Sakura Genesis is a New Japan Pro-Wrestling event at Ryōgoku Kokugikan, the sumo stadium. Sakura Genesis 2024 features professional wrestling matches with different wrestlers from feuds and storylines. Wrestlers portray villains and heroes in the scripted events that build tension in a wrestling match or series of matches.
Hibiya Blossom (March 20-April 14)
Celebrate the beginning of spring at Hibiya Blossom; it will be covered with colorful flowers and art. See Tokyo Midtown Hibiya transformed into a floral paradise for about three weeks at this free springtime event.
The Hibiya Step Square will have an elaborate flower garden so you can enjoy blooms of every color. The garden beds will be illuminated in colorful lights in the evening, featuring a unique light show every ten minutes.
Visit the flower pop-up shop at Hibiya Step Square to take home a bouquet of fresh flowers. You can also enjoy a limited-edition sakura monburan (Japanese Mont Blanc) and cocktail. Finally, stroll through Hibiya Park and see some spring-colored tulips blooming.
Vegan Gourmet Festival Spring 2024 (April 21)
The Vegan Gourmet Festival is a food festival dedicated to vegan cuisine and products. It is Japan’s biggest plant-based festival. Japan may not be famous for its vegan food offerings. But the Vegan Gourmet Festival in Tokyo may surprise you with how good the food is. Held in Nagoya, Kyoto, and Tokyo, this fully vegan festival is a welcome celebration in Japan.
With approximately 65 booths from all over Japan, this event brings together various vegan vendors. Ramen, gyoza, veggie burgers, curries, and burritos are just some foods you can find here. A paradise for a dessert lover, this vegan festival has an abundance of Japanese desserts. From ice cream to mochi (Japanese rice cake), you can get full from just stuffing your face with sweet things.
Why should I go to these April events in places like Waseda?
Cherry blossoms, spring festivals, and the promise of summer: April is one of the best times in Japan. These events invite you to welcome the spring in Japan and offer unique sights and experiences. They are the perfect way to dive into Japanese culture during a spring trip – which ones call out to you? Have you enjoyed the list? Do you have a favorite event in April to celebrate the spring season? Let us know in the comments below!
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