Swany Three

To experience the true essence of Japanese culture, visit the Arizona Matsuri Festival of Japan in downtown Phoenix every February. This popular event is one of the biggest Japanese festivals in the US, featuring over 60 vendors offering food and merchandise and exhibits by local schools, universities, and organizations. This event has four stages to witness thrilling performances, including Taiko drumming, martial arts displays, and traditional Japanese dance shows. The best part? It's completely free, and there are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This is an incredible opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culture and make unforgettable memories.

Put a little spark in your tour at the Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting, where you can experience the impressive collection of firefighting equipment, including some incredible fire engines from the mid-1800s. Additionally, you'll get to see historic helmets and other equipment that will give you a better appreciation of the history of firefighting. One of the most touching exhibits is the National Hall of Heroes, which pays tribute to the brave men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This exhibit will leave you feeling humbled and grateful for the sacrifices made by firefighters throughout history. Established in 1961, the museum now boasts five exhibit galleries showcasing one of the world's most extensive collections of firefighting apparatus. This collection includes items dating back to 1725 from America, England, France, Austria, Germany, and Japan, providing a comprehensive global perspective on firefighting.