There are countless local festivals (matsuri) in Japan because almost every shrine celebrates its own one. Most festivals are held annually and celebrate the shrine's deity or a seasonal or historical event. Some festivals are held over several days.

An important element of Japanese festivals is processions, in which the local shrine's kami (Shinto deity) is carried through the town in mikoshi (palanquins). It is the only time of the year when the kami leaves the shrine to be carried around town.

Many festivals also feature decorated floats (dashi), which are pulled through the town, accompanied by drum and flute music by the people sitting on the floats. Every festival has its own characteristics. While some festivals are calm and meditative, many are energetic and noisy.

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An interesting list of some of Japan's most famous festivals.