Discovering the Best Autumn Festivals in Japan: From Harvest Celebrations to Moon-Viewing Events in Tokyo

Takayama Matsuri

Takayama Matsuri is a world-renowned autumn festival that has been held for over 350 years. It takes place over two days in mid-October, with the first day known as Hachiman Matsuri and the second day as Shiawase Matsuri.

The festival is celebrated in both the spring and autumn, but the autumn festival is the larger of the two.

The festival features the display of beautifully decorated floats, known as yatai, which are paraded through the streets of Takayama.

Each yatai is adorned with intricate carvings and detailed artwork, and the floats are pulled by groups of men dressed in traditional festival attire.

One of the highlights of the festival is the mechanical dolls, or karakuri, which are housed inside the yatai and perform intricate movements to the delight of the crowds.

Aside from the procession, the festival also includes various performances of traditional music and dance, including the kagura dance, a form of Shinto ritual dance that originated in the Takayama area.

Throughout the festival, local food and drinks are served, including the famous Hida beef and sake, which are beloved by both locals and visitors.

The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant local culture and traditions of Takayama, making it a must-see event for anyone traveling to Japan in the autumn.

Kurama no Hi-Matsuri

Kurama no Hi-Matsuri, also known as the Kurama Fire Festival, is a spectacular autumn festival held in the town of Kurama, just outside of Kyoto.

In this chapter, we will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most exciting and unforgettable events.

The Kurama Fire Festival is held on October 22nd every year and dates back over 1,000 years. It is a celebration of the founding of the Kurama-dera Temple and is believed to be a purification ritual that drives away evil spirits and misfortune.

The festival is characterized by the lighting of giant torches, known as taikos, which are carried by men dressed in traditional festival attire.

The festival begins in the evening with a procession of taikos being carried through the streets of Kurama, accompanied by the chanting of prayers and the beating of drums.

The procession then reaches the Yuki Shrine, where the taikos are lit on fire, creating a spectacular display of flames that illuminates the night sky.

The festival is attended by thousands of people each year, and the atmosphere is electric. Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional festival attire and participate in the chanting and dancing that takes place throughout the evening.

Aside from the procession and lighting of the taikos, the festival also includes food and drink stalls, as well as traditional performances of music and dance.

The Kurama Fire Festival is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique insight into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-see event for anyone visiting Japan in the autumn.

Nagasaki Kunchi

Nagasaki Kunchi is a colorful and vibrant autumn festival held in the city of Nagasaki in early October. This chapter will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most lively and enjoyable events.

Nagasaki Kunchi dates back over 400 years and is believed to have originated as a celebration of the city’s prosperity and good fortune.

The festival is held over three days, with each day featuring different performances and events.

The festival is known for its elaborate costumes and colorful floats, which are carried through the streets of Nagasaki by groups of men and women. Each float represents a different district of Nagasaki and features intricate carvings and designs that reflect the unique character and culture of the area.

The festival also includes a wide range of traditional performances, including dances, music, and drama. One of the highlights of the festival is the dragon dance, which features a giant dragon puppet being carried through the streets by a group of men. The dragon dance is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the city.

Throughout the festival, local food and drinks are served, including the famous Castella cake, which is a sponge cake introduced to Nagasaki by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.

Nagasaki Kunchi is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and is a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditional music, dance, and cuisine of Nagasaki. It is a must-see event for anyone traveling to Japan in the autumn.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is a thrilling autumn festival held in Kishiwada, a city in Osaka Prefecture. This chapter will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most exciting and adrenaline-fueled events.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is held in mid-September every year and dates back over 300 years.

The festival is a celebration of the harvest and is characterized by the elaborate danjiri, or wooden carts, that are pulled through the streets by teams of men.

Each danjiri is decorated with intricate carvings and designs and weighs several tons. The carts are pulled at high speeds through the narrow streets of Kishiwada, with the men shouting and cheering as they navigate sharp corners and steep hills.

One of the highlights of the festival is the danjiri crashing, which involves intentionally tipping over the carts at high speeds, creating a heart-stopping spectacle of flying wood and cheering crowds.

The festival also includes a wide range of traditional performances, including music, dance, and taiko drumming.

Local food and drinks are served throughout the festival, including traditional snacks and sake.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and is a thrilling experience for anyone who loves excitement and adrenaline. It is a must-see event for anyone traveling to Japan in the autumn.

Karatsu Kunchi

Karatsu Kunchi is a lively and colorful autumn festival held in the city of Karatsu in Saga Prefecture. This chapter will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most beloved events.

Karatsu Kunchi is held in early November every year and dates back over 400 years. The festival is a celebration of the harvest and is characterized by the elaborate floats, or hikiyama, that are pulled through the streets by teams of men.

Each hikiyama is decorated with intricate carvings and designs that reflect the unique character and culture of the area.

The floats are pulled through the streets to the accompaniment of traditional music and chanting.

One of the highlights of the festival is the kakiyama, a float made entirely of rice straw that is paraded through the streets by a group of men. The kakiyama is believed to represent the harvest and is a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

The festival also includes a wide range of traditional performances, including dances, music, and taiko drumming. Local food and drinks are served throughout the festival, including traditional snacks and sake.

Karatsu Kunchi is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and is a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditional music, dance, and cuisine of Karatsu. It is a must-see event for anyone traveling to Japan in the autumn.

Tsukimi Matsuri

Tsukimi Matsuri, also known as the Moon-Viewing Festival, is a traditional Japanese festival that takes place in the autumn. This chapter will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most enchanting events.

Tsukimi Matsuri is typically held in September or October, when the harvest moon is at its brightest. The festival is a celebration of the autumn harvest and is characterized by the custom of moon viewing.

During the festival, people gather together to view the full moon and appreciate its beauty. They offer rice dumplings, called tsukimi dango, to the moon as a symbol of gratitude for the harvest.

The festival also includes a wide range of traditional performances, including music, dance, and tea ceremonies. Many people also decorate their homes with seasonal flowers and other decorations.

One of the highlights of Tsukimi Matsuri is the opportunity to enjoy traditional autumn foods, such as chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and persimmons.

Many restaurants and cafes offer special menus during the festival that feature these seasonal delicacies.

Tsukimi Matsuri is a celebration of the changing of the seasons and the beauty of nature. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Tsukimi Matsuri is a must-see event in the autumn.

Jidai Matsuri

Jidai Matsuri, which means “Festival of the Ages,” is a historical festival that takes place in Kyoto, Japan. This chapter will explore the history and cultural significance of the festival, as well as the unique features that make it one of Japan’s most fascinating events.

Jidai Matsuri is held on October 22nd every year and commemorates the founding of Kyoto as the imperial capital of Japan.

The festival dates back over 1,000 years and is one of the three major festivals in Kyoto.

The festival is a celebration of Japanese history and culture and is characterized by a grand parade featuring over 2,000 participants dressed in traditional costumes. The parade is divided into historical eras, with each era represented by its own set of costumes and floats.

One of the highlights of Jidai Matsuri is the presence of historical figures, such as samurai and emperors, who are portrayed by actors in elaborate costumes.

The festival also includes a wide range of traditional performances, including music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations.

Many people visit Jidai Matsuri to enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage in Kyoto’s temples and shrines.

The festival also offers a wide range of traditional foods and souvenirs, making it a popular event for locals and tourists alike.

Jidai Matsuri is a celebration of Japan’s rich cultural heritage and is a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty and elegance of traditional Japanese culture. It is a must-see event for anyone visiting Kyoto in the autumn.

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is one of Japan’s most vibrant and exciting festivals, held in Aomori City in the Tohoku region of northern Japan. This chapter will explore the history, cultural significance, and unique features of the Nebuta Matsuri, as well as the experiences that visitors can expect to have during the festival.

The Nebuta Matsuri is held annually from August 2nd to 7th and attracts over 3 million visitors from all over Japan and around the world. The festival is a celebration of summer and is rooted in ancient Japanese tradition, dating back over 300 years.

The festival features large, illuminated floats called nebuta, which are crafted by skilled artisans using paper and bamboo frames. Each nebuta float depicts a different scene from Japanese mythology, history, or folklore, and is adorned with intricate decorations and bright lights.

The festival is also characterized by the energetic and lively taiko drumming and flutes, played by musicians who march alongside the nebuta floats. Visitors can even participate in the festival by carrying small nebuta lanterns or joining in the dancing and singing.

One of the most unique features of the Nebuta Matsuri is the fireworks display that takes place every night of the festival, featuring thousands of colorful fireworks bursting over the city sky.

In addition to the festival itself, visitors can enjoy traditional Aomori cuisine, including fresh seafood, apples, and sake. They can also visit nearby attractions such as the Hirosaki Castle and Lake Towada.

Overall, the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is a must-see event for anyone visiting Japan in the summer. Its stunning floats, lively music, and festive atmosphere make it a memorable experience for all who attend.

Meiji Jingu Autumn Grand Festival

The Meiji Jingu Autumn Grand Festival, also known as the Meiji Jingu Shuki Reitaisai, is an annual autumn festival held at the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, Japan.

This chapter will explore the history, cultural significance, and unique features of the festival, as well as the experiences that visitors can expect to have during the event.

The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine located in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine was built in 1920 and is surrounded by a serene forest, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

The Autumn Grand Festival is held every year from November 1st to 3rd, and is a celebration of autumn and the bountiful harvest season.

The festival features a series of traditional Shinto rituals, including the kagura dance, in which Shinto priests and shrine maidens perform a ceremonial dance to offer prayers for a good harvest.

One of the highlights of the festival is the yabusame, or horseback archery, which is a traditional Japanese martial art. Skilled archers ride horses and shoot arrows at targets while galloping down a straight track. Visitors can witness this thrilling event up close and feel the energy of the crowd as they cheer on the archers.

In addition to the traditional ceremonies and events, the festival also offers various food and craft stalls, where visitors can sample delicious traditional Japanese cuisine and purchase unique souvenirs.

Overall, the Meiji Jingu Autumn Grand Festival offers visitors a chance to experience Japan’s traditional culture and customs, and is a must-see event for anyone interested in the history and spirituality of Japan.

The serene and tranquil atmosphere of the Meiji Jingu Shrine, combined with the lively energy of the festival, creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri

The Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri is an annual festival held in Yamagata City, located in the Tohoku region of Japan. This chapter will explore the history, cultural significance, and unique features of the festival, as well as the experiences that visitors can expect to have during the event.

The festival dates back to the early 1960s, when a group of young people from Yamagata City visited the city of Sendai and were inspired by the traditional Tanabata festival. They decided to create their own festival that would showcase the beauty and culture of Yamagata City.

The Hanagasa Matsuri takes place every year from August 5th to 7th, and is a celebration of the city’s local traditions and culture.

The festival features a parade of dancers wearing colorful costumes and hats adorned with paper flowers, known as hanagasa. The dancers perform a lively dance, accompanied by the beat of taiko drums, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the festival is the hanagasa competition, in which different groups compete to see who can perform the most impressive dance routine. The competition is judged by a panel of experts and the winning group is awarded a prize.

In addition to the parade and competition, the festival also offers various food and craft stalls, where visitors can sample delicious local cuisine and purchase unique souvenirs.

Overall, the Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri offers visitors a chance to experience the rich culture and traditions of Yamagata City, and is a must-see event for anyone interested in Japanese festivals and culture.

The lively and energetic atmosphere of the festival, combined with the beauty and vibrancy of the hanagasa dancers, creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Final Thoughts On Autumn Festivals In Japan

Autumn in Japan is one of the best seasons to celebrate the bountiful harvest and the beauty of the moon. The season is marked with several festivals that showcase Japanese culture and traditions dating back to ancient times.

Many of these festivals feature portable shrines, festival floats, traditional dances, and seasonal food.

The Tsukimi Matsuri, also known as the Moon Viewing Festival, is one of the main attractions of the season, and people celebrate it by eating tsukimi dango, rice dumplings, and raw eggs.

Other festivals, like the Kurama no Hi-Matsuri and Nagasaki Kunchi, date back to the Heian and Edo periods and feature large floats and dance performances.

The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri and Karatsu Kunchi are two of the most exciting festivals in Osaka and Saga prefectures, respectively, and both feature huge floats and traditional dances.

The Meiji Jingu Autumn Grand Festival is another highlight of the autumn season, with its impressive parade and beautiful Japanese gardens.

In Tochigi Prefecture, the beauty of the autumn leaves can be enjoyed at the Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine during the Hachiman Matsuri. The Takayama Matsuri is a must-see festival in Gifu Prefecture, with its large floats and private rooms for visitors to enjoy.

The Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri is a unique festival in the northern part of Japan, and its highlight is the traditional dance with a cat costume. The Pacific saury is a popular food during the autumn harvest, and it is celebrated during the Hachinohe Sansha Taisai in Aomori Prefecture.

Autumn in Japan is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as watching fireworks festivals or hot air balloons during the largest hot air balloon festival in Shimane Prefecture.

Small towns also celebrate their local festivals during this season, such as the Tsukimi Sobain Saitama Prefecture.

The autumn season is a great time to experience the best of Japanese culture and traditions, with the festivals being the best things to do during this time of year.

Japan National Tourism Organization Matsuri

My fascination with Japan began several years back at a roadside bonsai stand while on vacation. I became more interested in the where and why's more than the trees themselves. My love of Bonsai led me to further research my interest in the gardens where they originated from and the places and people that surrounded those little trees. My curiosity was well rewarded upon visiting Saitama where the National Bonsai Museum was located and Omiya Village the bonsai mecca for lovers of this ancient art form. Exploring many towns and villages and even making my way to Japan's furthest southern prefecture of Okinawa. I hope to share my love of this wonderful and exotic place with all those who want to know more about Japan.