Halloween Beginnings

While the western world has been celebrating Halloween for many years now, Halloween in Japan is only a recent thing.

In fact, Halloween only entered Japan in 1997 when it was brought over by Tokyo Disneyland. The Disney theme parks globally celebrate Halloween, so they decided to introduce it in Japan too.

Universal Studios Japan, in Osaka (which starts celebrating Halloween from September), also jumped onboard the Halloween fun train in 2002. The two renowned theme parks spread the Halloween fever across Japan and now it is even bigger than in the west!

Instant Success

The Japanese love the chance to dress up and go a bit mad, so, of course, Halloween was a big hit. In fact, before moving to Japan, I feel like I had never truly experienced Halloween. In the UK, it’s just a day or two of festivities and that’s it!

Although trick or treating is not performed, the Japanese do go above and beyond normal expectations for costumes and decorating.

Where to Go on Halloween in Japan

Every year, I make sure I visit Shibuya. It is the heart and soul of a Halloween nighttime street party, and you won’t want to miss it.

The other big place for evening festivities is Roppongi, (although I think Shibuya is better).

Places to go during the daytime:

• Tokyo Disneyland and/or Disney Sea
• Universal Studios Japan
• Sanrio Puroland
• Tokyo Tower
• Harajuku Pumpkin Parade
• Kawasaki Halloween Parade
• Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival

Does Japan Have Its Own Halloween?

Yes! The Japanese celebrate a Buddhist festival called Obon, which takes place between the 13th and 15th of August every year. It is a time when they celebrate the homeward return of the spirits of their ancestors.

Most people return to their hometowns to visit and clean the graves of their ancestors. They also make sure to spend time with their families and bond with them over the festivities.

The celebrations are usually held at Buddhist temples and shrines and involve dancing (Bon Odori), street food, and lanterns. It’s all of the fun, so go check it out!

Happy Halloween!

Related Article: How Japan Celebrates Christmas

Related Article: How Japan Celebrates Valentine’s Day

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I hope you learnt something new and had a great Halloween.

Ciao for now,

Jade xxx