Translation guide
In Japanese, seasonal festivals are deeply tied to specific annual events and traditions. The most common general term is 行事 (gyōji), but many festivals have dedicated names. This guide covers how to refer to seasonal festivals in general and introduces key specific festivals.
Referring to any seasonal festival, event, or traditional observance in a broad sense.
The most common and versatile word for any scheduled event, function, or seasonal festival. It covers school events, community festivals, and traditional observances.
Japan has seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Next month, I'll participate in a town festival.
Specifically refers to a festival, often with religious or community roots, featuring stalls, performances, and lively atmosphere. More concrete and event-focused than 行事.
We watched fireworks at the summer festival.
Literally 'annual events,' this term emphasizes the recurring, yearly nature of seasonal festivals. Often used in cultural or historical contexts.
New Year's is a representative annual event in Japan.
Referring to well-known Japanese seasonal festivals by their proper names.
Setsubun, the bean-throwing festival marking the beginning of spring (February 3rd).
On Setsubun, we throw beans.
Hinamatsuri, the Doll Festival or Girls' Day (March 3rd).
Tanabata, the Star Festival (July 7th), celebrating the meeting of deities Orihime and Hikoboshi.
Obon, the Buddhist festival to honor ancestral spirits (mid-August in most regions).
Jūgoya, the moon-viewing festival (mid-autumn).
Emphasizing that a festival is tied to a particular season.
行事 (gyōji) is a broader term covering any scheduled event, including school ceremonies, company events, and traditional festivals. 祭り (matsuri) specifically refers to lively festivals, often with religious origins, food stalls, and entertainment. Use 行事 for a general 'seasonal festival' in a cultural or educational context, and 祭り when emphasizing the festive, celebratory aspect.
We went on a field trip as a school event.
At the local festival, there are food stalls.
For Hinamatsuri, we display hina dolls.
七夕に短冊に願い事を書きます。
On Tanabata, we write wishes on strips of paper.
お盆には家族が集まります。
During Obon, families gather.
十五夜には月見団子を食べます。
On Jūgoya, we eat moon-viewing dumplings.
In this region, seasonal festivals are thriving.