JAPAN
TAKAYAMA
For over 350 years the Takayama Autumn Festival has lit up the street with eleven towering floats that weigh several tons in order to celebrate the beginning of the fall season. Ranked as one of the three most beautiful matsuri, the floats have performances by electronic puppets that are essentially 19th-century Japanese robots. It’s two days of traditional celebration that is sure to wow you with its intricate design and unique performances. The parade and following festival take place near the beautiful Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine. October 9-10. www.japan-guide.com
TOKYO
Car and technology enthusiasts won’t want to miss this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. Being one of the leading maker’s of automobiles in the world, Japan holds one of the biggest car shows that hosts over 160 exhibitors from around the globe. Since 1954 the bi-yearly event has been known for its sleek style and fashion show vibe. Enthusiasts come for the show-models as much as the concept cars that are the main focus of the event held in Tokyo Big Sight. This year’s theme is “beyond the motor” where interactivity and social media are focused on enhancing evolutionary designs of future automobiles. October 28November 5. www.tokyo-motorshow.com/en
THAILAND
BANGKOK
Come celebrate the end of Buddhist Lent from September 28-October 6 along the Mekong River at the Nakhom Phanom Illuminated Boat and Red Cross Fair. See the majestic body of water lined with glittering boats that make the celebration a mystical experience. The festival pays respects to Buddha and sacred deities including Naga, the mythical snake creature that transformed into a human in order to be a monk. At the Red Cross fair you can walk through booths filled with food, trinkets, and one-of-a-kind crafts. www.thailandtourism.com
beatfacts | There are over 200 volcanoes in Japan.
