The colourful lanterns, vibrant parades, traditional dances and an uncountable list of delectable food stalls are all hallmarks of the summer festivals that are celebrated throughout Japan.  At the popular festivals, visitors are sometimes taken aback by the number of vendors peddling tasty treats such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (sausages), kakigori (hisamaya ice lollies), and even the grilled squid …