At a festival in northeastern Kyoto City, participants threw flaming torches at an elevated bamboo basket by the riverbank, praying for a good harvest.
Every year, a dazzling parade of boats carrying a portable shrine adds a burst of color to Matsushima Bay, one of Japan's most scenic spots.
July 7 is Tanabata or Star Festival, when shrines across Japan are adorned with colorful "tanzaku" bearing people's wishes for themselves and their loved ones.
Celebrated for 3 days in November, Tori-no-Ichi fair brings together history and tradition, while each of its ornamental rakes is brimming with lucky charms.
