Thailand's New Year, Celebrated in Japan

Summer Songkran 2026

Laugh, get soaked, and welcome good fortune.

Songkran, the Thai New Year, is one of Thailand's most beloved traditional festivals. People splash water on one another as a blessing, wishing for happiness and good health in the year ahead.

Although Songkran is traditionally held every April, Thai Meditation Forest celebrates it as "Summer Songkran" to match the Japanese summer season.

Families, friends, and solo visitors are all warmly welcome. Come experience Thai culture and make bright summer memories together.

What You Can Experience at Summer Songkran

Water Festival (Songkran)

The biggest joy of Songkran is splashing water as a blessing.

Water carries the meaning of washing away misfortune and welcoming new happiness.

It is a lively event that children and adults can enjoy together.

Bathing the Buddha Image for Your Birth Weekday

In Thailand, there is a custom of pouring clean water over the Buddha image associated with the weekday on which you were born.

Please enjoy a quiet moment while praying for health, happiness, and the well-being of your family.

Ceremony of Gratitude to Elders

Songkran includes a beautiful tradition of expressing gratitude and respect to senior members of the community.

Participants gently pour scented water over elders' hands to share the wish: "May you stay healthy for many years to come."

Blessing by Monks

After chanting by Thai monks, participants receive holy water and pray for happiness in the year ahead.

This is an authentic Thai cultural experience that is not easy to encounter in Japan.

Authentic Thai Lunch

Authentic Thai dishes will be available on the day of the event. Please enjoy the flavors of Thailand.

300 yen per plate (meal ticket system)

Event Details

Date
Sunday, July 19, 2026

Time
11:30 AM-3:00 PM
Light rain or shine. Cancelled in case of severe weather.

Venue
Thai Meditation Forest
1021-1 Magarihata, Nasukarasuyama-shi, Tochigi 321-0605
Parking available

Admission
Free entry
No reservation required

What to Bring

• Clothes that can get wet
• Towel
• A change of clothes, if needed

Recommended For

• Anyone who wants to make summer memories
• Anyone interested in Thai culture
• Families looking for a fun event
• Anyone who loves water play
• Anyone who wants to taste authentic Thai food
• Anyone who would like to visit a temple
• Anyone who wants to feel like they are traveling abroad while staying in Japan

We Look Forward to Welcoming You

Why not spend a joyful summer day with us at Thai Meditation Forest?

This special event lets you splash water, share happiness, and enjoy Thai traditional culture.

Families, friends, and solo visitors are all welcome to join.

We sincerely look forward to seeing you.