Himeji Kite Flying Festival

Today was a small kite flying festival on the horse racetrack of Himeji. Flying kites is a popular pastime in Japan (actually most of Asia). It’s one of those cultural things that i just had to go see for myself at least once while i am still here in Japan. This was the 36th time that they had this kite flying festival in Himeji and every year it’s gaining in popularity with kite flying clubs and associations traveling from all over Japan to Himeji. The festival is held in early January (the exact date changes from year to year).

Transport: 15 minutes from JR/San’yo Himeji Station by Shinki Bus to Keibajo-mae

Website: Himeji Tourist Information website has some info about this in Japanese. I couldn’t find any good English website for this event as it’s only a small festival and not very much advertised.