| There is always something happening in Japan and | | | | For culture lovers who want to sample some of the |
| whatever your interest there is an event for you to | | | | fascinating Japan boasts a rich sporting history and |
| enjoy. | | | | has plenty to offer both spectators and participants |
| You can thrill to the spectacle of a Sumo tournament, | | | | alike. |
| experience the breathtaking colour of a fireworks | | | | Martial arts such as Sumo, Karate and Kendo have |
| festival or marvel at the ornate costumes and settings | | | | been popular for centuries and these traditional sports |
| of Kabuki drama. Including an event in your travel plans | | | | are still widely enjoyed today. Sumo wrestling is one of |
| offers a unique opportunity to take part in the | | | | the most exciting spectator sports for both visitors and |
| Japanese culture and meet some of the locals, and is | | | | locals. Six tournaments, each lasting 15 days, are held |
| a wonderful way to make your trip to Japan even | | | | annually in Tokyo in January, May and September. |
| more memorable. | | | | Over recent years Japan has also embraced a |
| Japanese Festivals are colourful celebrations that | | | | number of western sports, including golf, skiing & |
| reflect the countries ancient religious beliefs and mark | | | | snowboarding, baseball and football. Baseball is Japans |
| the passing of the seasons. They are an important | | | | number one sport and the professional league games, |
| part of life in Japan and can be enjoyed in cities and | | | | which take place from April to October, are a highlight |
| towns throughout the country. Whatever time of year | | | | of the sporting calendar. |
| you decide to visit, there is sure to be a festival taking | | | | Lightweight cottons and linens are required throughout |
| place somewhere in Japan, from elaborate displays of | | | | summer in most areas. Light to medium weights during |
| snow and ice sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival | | | | spring and autumn, medium to heavyweights for winter |
| to lively summer events like the Nebuta Matsuri in | | | | months, according to region. Much warmer clothes will |
| Aomori with its parade of giant illuminated figures. | | | | be needed in the mountains all year round. There is |
| Japan offers visitors a wealth of entertainment | | | | much less rainfall than in Western Europe. |
| opportunities, both modern and traditional. | | | | Japanese style hotels now provide exciting new |
| Contemporary diversions include clubs, discos, live | | | | experiences. Guests receive kimonos and wooden |
| music venues and bars, as well as international | | | | clogs and rooms come equipped with Japanese |
| performance arts such as opera, ballet, drama and | | | | bathtubs and paper sliding doors. |
| musicals. | | | | |