“Music is a bridge to cultural understanding” (Campbell, 2018, p.19). Music expresses cultural identity and passes down values and traditions to new generations. Studies have demonstrated that learning music from different cultures helps students understand and respect diverse backgrounds while celebrating their own identities (Chen-Hafteck, 2007; 2017; Chen-Hafteck et al., 2017; Pascale, 2011).Many world cultures have their own unique festivals. These events are rooted in the community and reflect differing themes from farming and agriculture to history and culture. Festivals serve not only as a means of celebrationbut also as a way to honor one’s ancestors, connect with the gods, and to foster civic pride and a sense of belonging. Music often plays an important role in these cultural practices. Through celebrating festivals, one can experience the vibrant musical heritage of the culture and implement them into the classroom where students can both celebrate their own cultural heritages and learn from others.The aim of this workshop is to provide participants with research-based lesson plans and instructional strategies on Japanese music that will enhance students’ cultural understanding. Through applying World Music Pedagogy, teachers will be able to design comprehensive and creative music lessons that are age-appropriate and motivating to student learning. The workshop will explore Japanese music through three vibrant festivals: (1) Obon Matsuri is for remembering, honoring and connecting to deceased ancestors and commemorate the spirits of the dead returning home through drumming, dance and songs while wearing kimonos. Although this holiday may sound somber to Westerners,Obon is a joyful and fun-filled festival celebrated with cultural activities and music that are easy to integrate into the music classroom. (2) Hinamatsuri (Doll’s Day/ Girl’s Day) is a family celebration for the health, happiness and prosperity ofyoung girls. Small dolls called “hina” are displayed and special celebratory food is served while traditional children's songs such as “Ureshi Hinamatsuri” are sung. (3) Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is held during the summer in the townAomori which is located in northern Japan. In this dynamic festival large floats surrounded by “Haneto” dancers maketheir way through the streets of the city shouting “rassera” while taiko drums energetically beat. These songs and dances and visual displays are used to honor and remember ancestors and historical events.Come join us in singing, playing, dancing and creating Japanese music, learn effective teaching strategies, and bring cultural awareness to your classroom!