The Flower Festival celebrates the birth of Gautama Buddha, who is said to have been born on April 8 at the foot of the Himalaya some 2500 years ago. On the first day of the festival a large parade is held, led by the music and dance clubs of local schools, and followed by other local clubs, monks, and a statue of the Buddha sitting atop a white elephant. The parade moves from the entrance to Omotesando Street to the plaza below the main hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, where the music, dance and baton clubs give a splendid performance. On the last day of the festival a special Buddhist memorial service is held to celebrate the Buddha’s birth, and anyone can attend.

Experience this on the Narita Airport Transit & Stay Program by booking a free Volunteer Guided Tour.