In case you couldn’t tell, fall is my favorite time of year. I lived in The Land of the Rising Sun for three years and had the opportunity to attend incredible autumn festivals in Japan.
I speak the language, understand the culture, and I know my way around the country having traveled solo in Japan many times. You’re gonna get all the best tips and tricks for making your trip epic!
Japan is amazing in so many ways and I miss my time abroad there! If you’re planning a fall foliage trip to Japan, then check out these must-visit Japanese festivals.
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Sapporo Autumn Fest: A Celebration of Hokkaido’s Food Scene
When: September 6, 2024 – September 29, 2024
The Sapporo Autumn Festival celebrates seasonal ingredients. Food booths serve local culinary delights. This year’s exciting collaboration with Sapporo Gourmet Coupon will help you enjoy Sapporo tourism and cuisine on a budget.
Festival Overview
Over 2 million visitors come to this annual festival in September. It takes place in seven areas of Sapporo’s Odori Park, stretching over a distance of about 1 km.
If you’re a major foodie, this harvest season will have you singing Hokkaido’s praises… After all their main specialty is seafood.
Main Attractions
This cultural festival will showcase 300 stores showing off the most delicious food. You’ll find meat, seafood, ramen, soup curry, and Shime Parfait.
Plus, you’ll get to eat special dishes made by chefs from famous restaurants in Sapporo. They even have a large selection of Hokkaido wines and sake!
This venue is cashless and you can pay with a variety of digital methods.
Planning Your Visit
You can’t see everything in a day so make sure you plan for 2-3 days to truly enjoy this festival. Hokkaido is one of the first prefectures in Japan to see snow. During September, you will encounter cool and enjoyable temperatures at 20°C (68°F).
It does get a little chilly at night so make sure you bring a light jacket.
Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival: A Festival of Lights in Fukushima Prefecture
When: October 4, 2024 – October 6, 2024
Experience the magic of Japan’s autumn season at the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival (Nihonmatsu Chochin Matsuri). It is one of the three largest lantern festivals in Japan.
Held annually from October 4th to 6th, this autumn festival transforms Nihonmatsu City into a dazzling spectacle of light and sound. The festival is a captivating celebration of local culture and tradition, adorned with thousands of lanterns.
For those interested in sustainable tourism and cultural experiences, the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival is an excellent way to do so.
History and Significance
The Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival started in the Edo period and is steeped in history and tradition. It is a national holiday in Nihonmatsu, attracting visitors from across Japan and the world.
The festival is organized by eight districts in Nihonmatsu City. Each one constructs a large float covered in colorful lanterns. Lantern displays on the floats are paraded through the streets.
Festival Features and Main Attraction
There is a procession of eight massive floats carrying approximately 300 lanterns that light up the night sky. These festival floats are ornately decorated and feature Kaiseki (traditional multi-course meals) served to the deities enshrined within.
On the final evening, all eight floats gather at the Nihonmatsu Castle ruins. The floats are lined up, and the lanterns are lit in unison, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the historic site.
Activities and Attractions
On the festival grounds, you can find food vendors selling grilled chicken skewers and local sake. I recommend you enjoy the beautiful natural scenery like the hiking trails of the nearby Adatara Mountains. Visitors can also go on cultural expeditions to the local wineries and archive museums to learn more about the area’s history and traditions.
Nagasaki Kunchi Festival: A Harvest Festival with a Maritime Twist
When: October 7, 2024 – October 9, 2024
The Nagasaki Kunchi Festival is a must-see event! Held annually, the Kunchi Festival is a harvest festival celebration of Nagasaki’s maritime heritage.
You can see a unique blend of traditional Japanese dance, music, and the city’s storied history. This good time festival is a testament to the city’s long trade history with foreign countries.
Origins and Significance
The Nagasaki Kunchi Festival dates back to 1634, during the Edo period. It is one of Japan’s oldest and most culturally significant festivals. Originally, the festival was held to honor the gods and pray for a good harvest.
Today, it is a three-day event. It showcases the city’s unique blend of Japanese and Western influences, reflecting Nagasaki’s role as Japan’s gateway to the West.
The festival is centered around the Suwa Shrine. Each year, different neighborhoods or “machi” take turns organizing and performing various events, making every year a unique experience.
Unique Festival Features
One of the most striking festival features of the Nagasaki Kunchi is the parade of large floats. You can see boats, castles, and other elaborate structures. Each float is accompanied by traditional dances, music, and even theatrical presentations that tell the stories of Nagasaki’s past.
Another highlight of the festival is the reenactment of historical events, such as the arrival of the Portuguese and the Dutch. Here you can see the Dutch Dance” and “Dragon Dance.”
Days of the Festival
The festival spans three days. On the first day, there is an opening ceremony at the Suwa Shrine, followed by a parade of floats. The second day features performances at various stages, including the Otabisho and the Minato Park.
The final day is where all the floats and performers gather at the Suwa Shrine for a grand finale.
Visitor Tips
To fully enjoy the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, it’s important to arrive early for a good viewing spot. The festival is popular among locals and tourists, so be prepared for large crowds.
Consider purchasing tickets for reserved seating at the main venues to get the best view of the performances. For accommodation, Nagasaki offers a range of options from Japanese-style accommodation to Western restaurants and hotels.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine and explore the city’s historical sites while you’re there.
Takayama Autumn Festival: A Cultural Gem in Gifu Prefecture
When: October 9, 2024 – October 10, 2024
Autumn in Japan is a mesmerizing experience! There’s no better way to enjoy this season than by visiting the Takayama Autumn Festival held in Gifu Prefecture.
It is renowned for its stunning festival floats and is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. Known locally as the Hachiman Matsuri, the festival offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditional artistry.
Festival Overview
The Takayama Autumn Festival takes place annually in mid-October, just as the leaves turn shades of red and gold. The Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is the centerpoint of the festival.
Locals and visitors gather to celebrate a bountiful harvest and to pray for good fortune in the coming year. The parade consists of elaborately decorated floats called “yatai.”
Each float is a work of art. They have intricate carvings and colorful tapestries that reflect the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.
Main Attractions
The nighttime procession is absolutely magical to watch! Hundreds of lanterns iluminate the floats. It creates a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Don’t take your eyes off the floats moving through the narrow streets of Takayama. You’ll be holding your breath as they navigate tight corners and low-hanging rooftops.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re attending the Takayama Autumn Festival, it’s best to arrive early and secure a good viewing spot. The festival runs for two days, with the most spectacular events in the evenings when the lanterns are lit.
Planning Your Visit
You can book a tour to the Takayama Autumn Festival because it’s a perfect way to get involved in Japanese culture. This is a unique festival/event experience and gateway to exploring the cultural performances and local traditions of Takayama.
The festival provides a perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories amidst the stunning backdrop of Japan’s autumn leaves. For more information, you can check out the official Takayama Autumn Festival website.
Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival: A Unique Festival in Tochigi Prefecture
When: October 12, 2024 – October 13, 2024
Every autumn, the serene town of Kanuma in Tochigi Prefecture transforms during the Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival. It is known locally as the Kanuma Imamiya Shrine Autumn Festival. This event takes place on the second Saturday and Sunday of October.
Celebrated for its portable shrine and magnificent wooden floats, the Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival offers a delightful blend of culture and history, making it one of Japan’s most unique festivals.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival has its roots in the mid-Edo period. It was originally held to thank the deities for a good autumn harvest and pray for the townspeople’s safety.
“Buttsuke” means “bumping,” in Japanese. This reflects the festival’s highlight where floats collide in a friendly yet dramatic showcase of power and skill.
The Festival has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Tochigi Prefecture, highlighting its importance in the region’s cultural landscape.
Festival Features and Main Attractions
At the Kanuma Buttsuke Autumn Festival, you’ll see the procession of elaborately decorated huge floats, known as “Yatai.” These floats are constructed from lacquered wood. They are adorned with gold leaves and intricate designs that depict scenes from Japanese mythology and history.
Each float is accompanied by local residents chanting to the rhythm of the taiko drums.
The “Buttsuke” performance is where floats from different districts engage in a friendly competition. In a display of strength and craftsmanship, floats are “bumped” against each other.
Activities and Experiences
In addition to the float procession and Buttsuke performances, the festival offers a variety of activities for visitors. Local artisans set up booths to showcase and sell their crafts, including Bizen pottery, wood carvings, and other handmade items.
The festival also provides an opportunity to visit the Imamiya Shrine. It is the spiritual center of the festival, where you can witness rituals and offerings made to the deities. Visitors can enjoy live performances of traditional dances and music, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Kawagoe Festival
When: October 19, 2024 – October 20, 2024
The festival started at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine in 1648 after Lord Nobutsuna gifted the shrine mikoshi (portable shrines) and lion’s face masks. The Kawagoe Festival is held annually on the third Sunday of October and the preceding Saturday.
Festival Features and Main Attractions
Hikkawase is when the festival floats meet and compete with each other, the bearers moving the floats while the performers play traditional music, dance, and swing festival lanterns. The festival has even been registered as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
In 2024, there will be 29 festival floats from the 27 districts of Kawagoe City. You can see more information on the official website.
Bizen Pottery Festival: A Celebration of Local Artisans in Okayama Prefecture
When: October 20, 2024
If you’re a fan of unique crafts and local art, the Bizen Pottery Festival in Okayama Prefecture is a must-visit event during the autumn season. It is held annually on the third Sunday of October.
This festival brings together local artisans, pottery enthusiasts, and tourists to celebrate the rich tradition of Bizen ware, one of Japan’s oldest and most revered pottery styles. The festival not only showcases the incredible craftsmanship of the region’s artisans but also offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage.
History and Significance of Bizen Pottery
Bizen pottery, known for its rustic and earthy beauty, dates back over a thousand years to the Heian period. This pottery style is unique due to its lack of glaze and its firing process, which involves placing the pottery in kilns for up to two weeks.
The resulting pieces are renowned for their natural, reddish-brown hues and durable, robust texture. The Bizen Pottery Festival celebrates this ancient craft, honoring the skills and techniques passed down through generations of potters.
Festival Features and Main Attractions
You can also explore the works of over 100 local artisans and potters who display their finest creations. From elegant tea bowls and vases to everyday tableware, the variety and quality of the pieces will impress both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.
In addition, festival-goers can see live demonstrations of pottery making. Artisans will showcase their skills, from shaping the clay on a potter’s wheel to carefully crafting each piece by hand. These demonstrations provide a fascinating insight into the meticulous process behind Bizen pottery and offer a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved.
Activities and Experiences
Beyond the pottery displays and demonstrations, the Bizen Pottery Festival offers a range of experiences for visitors. The festival features workshops where participants can make their own pottery under the guidance of experienced potters. This hands-on experience is a fun and engaging way to learn about the craft and create a unique souvenir to take home.
Tips for Enjoying the Festival
Sign up early if you want to participate in the pottery workshops. The festival attracts visitors from all over Japan and foreign countries.
For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, Okayama Prefecture is home to beautiful landscapes, including the famous Kibiji District and its historic sites.
Visitor Information and Resources
For the latest information on the Bizen Pottery Festival, including schedules, activities, and access, visitors are encouraged to check the festival’s official site. Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Bizen Pottery Festival is a celebration of art, tradition, and community.
Jidai Matsuri: A Journey Through Kyoto’s History
When: October 22, 2024
Next on our list of incredible autumn festivals in Japan, we have the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages). It takes place every year on October 22nd in the heart of Kyoto Prefecture.
If you’ve ever wanted to immerse yourself in the local culture of Japan, the Jidai Matsuri is a great time to do so. It’s more than just a festival—it’s a living archive museum of Japanese history.
Origins of the Festival
The Jidai Matsuri was first held in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the establishment of Kyoto as the capital of Japan.The festival is organized by the local shrine and honors Oda Nobunaga, a powerful daimyō of the Edo period.
Today, it stands as one of Kyoto’s most beautiful festivals, showcasing the city’s heritage through a vibrant parade that features participants dressed in traditional costumes from various eras of Japanese history.
Festival Highlights
The grand procession starts at Kyoto Imperial Palace and winds through the city to the Heian Shrine. This parade features over 2,000 participants, including residents, students, and volunteers.
They all wear period costumes that range from the Heian era (794-1185) to the Meiji era (1868-1912). The procession is divided into historical segments representing a different period. Sometimes they are accompanied by traditional marionette performances.
As the parade progresses, onlookers can see a visual timeline of Kyoto’s history. This provides a unique educational experience that’s both entertaining and enlightening.
How to Enjoy the Festival
To make the most of your visit to the Jidai Matsuri, it’s best to arrive early and secure a spot along the parade route. The festival starts around noon and lasts about five hours. Visit the Heian Shrine, where the procession concludes so you can admire the shrine’s impressive architecture and serene gardens.
Visitors can also take the opportunity to indulge in seasonal foods and shop for souvenirs from the numerous food stalls. The festival offers a chance to taste traditional Japanese snacks like sweet potato treats.
If you’re considering visiting Kyoto and trying all the amazing food in the region, check out my guide on What To Eat in Kyoto.
Practical Tips for Visitors
As the festival coincides with the peak of the autumn season, it’s also a good time to explore Kyoto’s famous autumn leaves and historic sites.
I have a 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary for First-Timers so you can plan your perfect trip stress-free. Also, check the official site for the latest information and updates on the festival’s schedule and logistics.
Kurama Fire Festival: A Fiery October Festival in Kyoto Prefecture
When: October 22, 2024
Nestled in the tranquil mountains north of Kyoto Prefecture, the Kurama Fire Festival (Kurama no Hi Matsuri) is one of the most unique festivals in Japan. This October festival is celebrated every year.
It transforms the village of Kurama into a fiery spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival is a mesmerizing display of tradition, where the past and present collide in a blaze of pine torches and ancient rituals.
History of the Kurama Fire Festival
The Kurama Fire Festival began during the Heian Period (794-1185). It was first held to thank the gods for a bountiful harvest and to pray for the well-being of the village.
The event begins at the shrine, where local men, women, and children gather in traditional costumes to participate in a series of rituals.
The main event kicks off at 6pm starting at the Yuki Shrine. Villagers will carry massive torches through the streets chanting prayers to the gods.
Main Event and Attractions
The most exciting feature of the Kurama Fire Festival is the procession of giant torches, some weighing as much as 100 kilograms. Men dress in loincloths and sandals, hoist these torches on their shoulders, and march through the streets.
In addition to the torch procession, the festival includes performances of traditional Japanese dance and music, which provide a captivating cultural experience. Visitors can also enjoy various activities at the festival grounds, including food stalls offering local delicacies like sweet potatoes and grilled fish.
How to Experience the Festival
Experiencing the Kurama Fire Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Japan. To make the most of your visit, arrive early to explore the hot springs and scenic trails around Kurama before the festivities begin.
The Kansai Tourism Bureau recommends taking the Eizan Railway from Kyoto to reach Kurama, as the scenic journey adds to the overall experience.
Practical Tips for Visitors
The festival draws a large crowd so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you may need to walk or stand for extended periods. It’s also important to stay safe around the open flames and follow the guidance of local organizers and volunteers.
With its stunning visual displays and rich traditions, the Kurama Fire Festival is an unforgettable event that should be on every traveler’s bucket list during the fall season.
This list of amazing autumn festivals in Japan will definitely inspire you! Every time I write a post about all the fantastic fall events, I give myself a bit of wanderlust!
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