TAKIGI NOH

TAKIGI NOH

June 1 to 2, Kyoto, Japan

Heian Shrine in Kyoto is well-known for the annual Takigi Noh, a special Noh performed on an open-air stage. Takigi, which means firewood, is placed at each corner of the stage at Heian Shrine and lit as soon as it gets dark. Noh, the classical Japanese musical performed exclusively by men, is unique in its slow grace and its use of elaborate masks and leaves a deep impression on spectators. Check the weather beforehand because if it rains, the performances might be postponed.

 

WAISAK

May 20, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Held on the night of the full moon in May, Waisak is a sacred festival commemorating the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment and his death. It is celebrated by Buddhist communities throughout Java, with the most prominent taking place at Borobudur in Yogyakarta. Ceremonial offerings of fruit and flowers are made and thousands of candles, representing Buddha’s enlightenment, are lit. Processions are also held throughout the city.

 

GREAT JAPAN BEER FESTIVAL

June 4 to 5, Tokyo, Japan

More than 120 local and international craft brews are waiting to be tasted at Tokyo’s Great Japan Beer Festival in Yebisu Garden Place. You can buy a ticket in advance for 4,800 Yen (Bt1,550) or get one at the festival for 5,200 Yen. Don’t throw away the glass you get at the entrance because you have to use it throughout the event. Expect to toast to more than 5,000 beer lovers. Kam-pai! Visit www.BeerTaster.org/index-e.html.

 

SINGAPORE BOOK FAIR

June 3 to 9, Singapore

Singapore Book Fair draws thousands of booksellers, publishers and readers to Suntec Singapore Exhibition and Convention Centre. With thousands of books, tons of fun activities and not forgetting good offers across the board, the fair is also a great meeting point for those who want to network, chat and share ideas.

 

SEOUL DRUM FESTIVAL

May 27 to 28, Seoul, South Korea

The beat goes on in South Korea’s capital, as the Seoul Drum Festival at Seoul Plaza marks its 18th year, by bringing together Korean and international percussion artists for a series of drum shows. 

 

NATIONAL CELTIC FOLK FESTIVAL

June 10 to 13, Victoria, Australia

Australia’s largest celebration of Celtic music and culture takes place in Portarlington, on Victoria’s beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. Enjoy the performances or be a part of the festivities by joining in one of the many workshops on offer, covering everything from limerick writing to bagpipe playing. Music, dance, poetry, cuisine, arts and crafts are all on the list. Visit www.NationalCelticFestival.com.