Things to do in Fujisawa, Kanto: The Best Events

In this display, approximately 3,000 fireworks are launched from the western coast of Katase, over a backdrop of Enoshima. Held every year in October, this event allows spectators to eperience something a bit different from summer fireworks. Star mines and other fireworks light up the Autumn sky in vivid colors, and the only 2-shaku dama (large shell fireworks) in the Shonan area are also set off. These 2-shaku dama are a sight to behold, as they produce a dynamic blooming arrangement in the sky, with a diameter of approximately 480 m accross.

This festival of light and color is known as one of the Kanto region's three largest illumination displays, and is also recognized as "a night view inheritance of Japan." The festival is composed of three different events: "Enoshima Sea Candle Light Up" (end of November to end of January), "Enoshima Winter Tulips" (January) and "Valntine Island Enoshima" (beginning of February to middle of February). 20,000 Tulips emerge amidst illumination that spans an open space of dazzling light. "Shonan no Hoseki" concludes with an art event that uses light balloons and mirror balls to produce a magical atmosphere of illumination.

Every year, on the second Sunday in July, the Tennosai festival is held simultaneously at Yasaka Shrine and Koyurugi Shrine. The Tennosai is a storied festival, selected as one of the "Kanagawa Top 50," and drawing many visitors from the prefecture and beyond. After the Shinto rituals, the mikoshi (portable shrine) is paraded down the shrine road to the accompaniment of the "Tenno hayashi" band, and shouted voices rise as it is carried into the sea. Called the "kaijo togyo" (procession across the sea), this is the highlight of the Tennosai festival.

The "Fujisawa Citizens Festival," the biggest event in Fujisawa City, is held over a two-day period in the area around Fujisawa Station, at Shojoko-ji, and in other locations. Each location hosts a variety of different events. As is the yearly tradition, a large parade is put on, and booths with local products are set up to appeal to the charm of Fujisawa. Several events are also held at the Shojoko-ji grounds, making this festival enjoyable for both adults and children.

To accompany the arrival of the tourism season, this spring festival is held in mid-March every year over a two-day period at Enoshima. Live comedy, taiko drum shows, street performances and various other events give the festival an energetic atmosphere. There are also attractions that are popular with children, such as mini steam locmotive rides, a kid's play area, and a corner where visitors can experience creating Enoshima's iconic decorated shells, making this an event-filled festival the entire family can enjoy. There is even a "screaming contest," in which participants face the ocean and scream as loud as they can. While the festival is underway, surrounding tourist attractions may also offer special deals, such as free admission for elementary school students and younger.