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Yokohama Kaiko-sai (Port Opening) Festival - Tokyo Hotels .com

Japan is a bit of a contradiction: It is one of the most forward-thinking, international countries in the world, but it still venerates its past with unrivaled nationalism. The Kaiko-sai (or "Port Opening") Festival at Yokohama-Kamakura celebrates this contradiction. It commemorates the opening of the Yokohama Port to international trade while also being a celebration of Japan's sovereignty.

Along with the Tokyo Minato Matsuri (Port Festival), the Kaiko-sai is one of two major seaside port festivals in Japan. Celebrations are mainly held at the Yokohama main pier, but often spill over into Yokohama Park. Building on the theme of Japan's contradictions, this park is split in two, with one side representing traditional Japanese styles and the other representing modern Western style. The festival has all the usual events you expect from a Japanese festival, such as dances and traditional music. What makes this festival special, however, is its seaside quality: Ships sail, fireworks are launched from barges, and exhilarating dragon boat competitions are held.

The festival also features a bazaar, where visitors can buy a keepsake of the celebrations.