Awa Geo Festival
Release the young ’uns among dinosaurs at the Akashi Kaikyo National Government Park, where this dinosaur-themed festival is taking place until January 12. You can look forward to displays of gemstones and fossils, including a full-size reproduction of the fossilised skeleton of Tambasaurus, a dinosaur species named after the city of Tamba in Hyogo, where the fossil was discovered. Excavation experiences and hands-on craft workshops offer the opportunity to make your own ammonite replicas and dinosaur models.
The family-friendly event also features storytelling sessions using picture books, though these are all in Japanese. An expansive Christmas and crafts market is held on the weekends in December, and traditional Japanese New Year’s decoration workshops will take place in the week leading up to the new year. Tickets are available at the door and cost ¥450 for adults – children under the age of 15 enter for free.