I like to go to the Ebisu festival every year in January. It is an event that is unique to the Kansai area of Japan and there are a few large events near my home. This is at the temple near JR Hyogo station.
I have been teaching English as a second language for over 20 years in Japan and Canada. What keeps me in Japan is the love of its culture, which constantly surprises me. I am also fascinated with "alternative travel", or "travel off the beaten path". Ferries and trains are my mode of choice... airplane for convenience.