Autumn Festivals in Japan: Major Events September-November 2024

Japan's Autumn Festivals

2024 Fall foliage map created by MATCHA based on information from Weathernews

Many traditional festivals and ceremonies take place during the fall harvest season in Japan, between September to November. Below are the major events held in Japan in autumn in each month, and where and how you can enjoy them.

Autumn Festivals and Events in Japan

September Events in Japan
1. Otsukimi: Moon Viewing Festivals
2. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka, September 14 - 15
3. USJ Halloween, September - November
4. Huis ten Bosch Halloween Festival, September - November
October Events in Japan
5. Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, October 22
6. Nagasaki Kunchi festival, October 5 - 7
7. Kawagoe Festival, October 14
8. Takayama Autumn Festival, October 9 - 10
9. Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto, October 22
10. Bakeneko Festival in Tokyo, October 13
November Events in Japan
11. Shichi-Go-San Ceremonies Across Japan
12. Tori no Ichi, November 5, 17, and 29
13. Nara Park: Autumn Foliage Festival

September Events in Japan

1. Otsukimi - Moon Viewing Festivals All Across Japan

The fifteenth of the eighth month in the ancient calendar (sometime between mid-September and the beginning of October in modern times) is known as Juugoya, the night of the full moon. This is the night of the harvest moon, which is also said to be the most beautiful moon of the year.

On this night, otsukimi, or moon viewing, is carried out throughout Japan. There is a traditional ceremony to show thanks and pray for a successful seasonal harvest of produce such as rice. Japanese pampas grass, which resembles rice stalks, is used as decoration, while dango (sweet rice dumplings), which resemble the moon, are used as an offering and a snack while taking in the gorgeous night sky.

2. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka, September 14 - 15

The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is a famous festival that takes place every year in Kishiwada City, Osaka.

Originally a festival to pray for a successful harvest, it is now centered around danjiri, large intricately carved wooden festival floats that speed through the streets, pulled by around 500 people. This energetic and exciting event attracts many spectators.

With the floats’ sudden turns, the sound of the hayashi’s traditional instruments, and the people in charge shouting directions from the roofs of the floats, this festival is something you cannot miss.

To enjoy this event to the fullest, we suggest doing some background reading on the official website (Japanese only) before you go.

3. USJ Halloween: September - November

Picture courtesy of PR Times
Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a place that should not be missed during festivals and special occasions, and Halloween is no exception! Watch as the park transforms into one huge Halloween party!

During the day, lovable characters residing in the park hold an array of events dressed for the occasion. Examples include Pikachu and Gengar hosting the Hahahaha! Party, ghost-type Pokémon joining in on the fun, My Melody & Kuromi's Happy Halloween Welcome Show, and the Minions and Sesame Street friends sporting deadly new looks, among others!

As day turns to night, zombies take over the streets, occasionally erupting into dance! Other attractions for this spooktacular season include Chainsaw Man The Chaos 4D, Resident Evil™ Hero's Night, and Chucky's Chaos Carnival! During this season, the park also offers Halloween-themed limited-edition food! If you are a fan of Halloween and thrills, then a trip to USJ is a must when visiting Japan!

4. Huis ten Bosch Halloween: September- Novemeber

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Each year, Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch—Japan's largest theme park—holds a dazzling Halloween festival! From September 13 to November 4, 2024, the European-themed park transforms into a vibrant Halloween wonderland.

Decorated from head to toe in spooky-themed decor, this exciting celebration features a lively Halloween parade with beloved characters like Miffy, as well as a trick-or-treat event for children eager to collect goodies.

As night falls, guests can embark on an Illuminated Night Walk, where pumpkin lanterns light the path, enjoy incredible projection mapping, and culminate in a breathtaking fireworks display set against the stunning backdrop of the park!

Food enthusiasts can savor gourmet offerings and over 100 wines at the Autumn Gourmet Festival, complemented by enchanting illuminations and live performances. With its unique blend of spooky fun and romantic charm, the Huis Ten Bosch Halloween Festival is an event not to be missed!

October Events in Japan

5. Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, October 22

The Jidai Matsuri is one of Kyoto's big three festivals, normally held on October 22 every year at Heian Jingu Shrine. During this event, you can watch an extravagant parade celebrating the former capital's birth, history, and culture.

This procession of around 2,000 people represents the flow of time throughout history since the Meiji Restoration, which involved the political and social reforms that took place between the late Edo period and early Meiji Period. Each outfit and prop used by the participants is made in secret under the supervision of specialists.

6. Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, October 5 -7

Taking the spotlight in Nagasaki each autumn, the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival is an ancient event that has been around for 400 years and is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset!

Bursting with color, history, and the cultural art of multiple countries, this festival offers a unique insight into the rich multicultural history of Nagasaki—one of Japan's ancient port trading towns.

Displaying fascinating art and performances at Suwa Shrine from October 5-7 each year, visitors can see incredible boat floats inspired by countries such as the Netherlands, China, and Portugal—all countries that had historical diplomatic ties with Japan.

Mesmerizing displays last from morning until night for three consecutive days, with each year being different from the last! So, if you are in Japan during October and are considering a visit to Kyushu, we highly recommend attending this festival—one of Nagasaki's top three autumn festivals.

7. Kawagoe Festival, October 14

The Kawagoe Festival, also known as the Kawagoe Hikawa Festival Float Event, is celebrated every October 14 and has vibrant traditions stretching back over 370 years to the Edo Period.

Rooted in the historic “Reitaisai” at Hikawa Shrine, this lively festival highlights stunning Edo-style floats, referred to as dashi. These impressive two-story structures are intricately decorated with dolls and parade through the streets, engaging in spirited musical contests called hayashi.

As the festival approaches, the streets come alive with decorative banners, creating an inviting atmosphere filled with excitement. The event serves as a bridge between generations, allowing participants to honor their ancestors while ensuring that these cherished customs are passed down.

Kawagoe is easily accessible via various train lines, making it convenient for visitors to join the festivities. Experience the unique charm of the Kawagoe Festival, a remarkable celebration of tradition, culture, and community spirit!

8. Takayama Autumn Festival: October 9 - 10

As autumn paints Takayama with vibrant reds and golds, the much-anticipated Takayama Autumn Festival begins! Celebrated annually on October 9 and 10, this festival honors the deities of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine and expresses gratitude for a fruitful harvest.

During the festivities, 11 magnificent floats, recognized as Important Tangible Folk Cultural Assets of Japan, parade through the streets of Takayama.

Participants and visitors are encouraged to celebrate in traditional samurai attire, echoing the festival's origins in the Edo period. The Takayama Autumn Festival is considered one of Japan’s three great float festivals, alongside the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama and the Gion Festival in Kyoto.

Alongside the grand floats, the streets come alive with portable shrines, lion dancers, and individuals dressed in stunning kimonos and samurai armor. The festival is especially enchanting at night when one float stands out with its 100 illuminated lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy!

9. Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto: October 22

Watch sparks fly in Kyoto by attending the famous Kurama Fire Festival, estimated to be 1,000 years old! This spectacular festival originated when the Yuki-jinja Shrine was relocated to Kurama during the Heian Period, a time marked by natural disasters and civil unrest in Kyoto. To celebrate the arrival of the deity, villagers would carry torches and walk to Kurama in a joyous procession.

Recognized as one of Kyoto's Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets, the Kurama Fire Festival ranks among the city's top three festivals. Every year on October 22, as the sun sets, the town comes alive with bonfires and torches lit outside homes and key buildings starting at 18:00 in the evening.

Festival participants hoist massive torches, illuminating the mountainous path to the shrine while chanting through the streets. Visitors can also witness portable shrines making their way down the mountain, accompanied by traditional garments, torches, and vibrant community spirit!

10. Bakeneko Festival in Tokyo: October 13

Bakeneko is a supernatural creature from Japanese folklore, often mentioned alongside other yokai or Japanese ghosts.

These demon cats have varied legends across regions; for instance, in northern Japan, particularly in Ibaraki, it's believed that cats living over 12 years can transform into bakeneko. In Hiroshima, there's a legend that a cat reaching 7 years old will become a yokai and potentially harm its owner.

Bakeneko are renowned for their powers, including the ability to transform into humans and manipulate them. They appear in ancient tales like "The Tale of Takasu Genbei" and "Ume no Haru Gojūsantsugi."

Every October, the Kagurazaka Bakeneko Parade in Tokyo invites participants to celebrate this folklore. Throughout the day, visitors enjoy delicious food, cat-themed goods, and lively performances.

The festival features a range of demon cat costumes, from adorable to bizarre, creating a festive atmosphere ideal for the Halloween season. Participants can also dress as bakeneko for the event!

November Events in Japan

11. Shichi-Go-San Ceremonies Across Japan

On or around November 15, three-, five-, and seven-year-olds don their smartest clothes (usually traditional Japanese style) and head to their local shrine to celebrate the healthy growth of children across the country.

This was originally a ceremony for specific turning points in a child's life: girls starting to grow out their hair at age three, boys beginning to wear hakama at age five, and seven-year-olds being able to wear the same type of kimono as adults. Nowadays, the original meaning has faded, and instead, people pray for a long life for the children while enjoying chitose ame: red and white candy sticks.

12. Tori no Ichi in Tokyo: November 5, 17, and 29

Dedicated to the oriental zodiac rooster, the Tori no Ichi festival began as a celebration of the harvest and takes place at Otori Shrine in Asakusa and Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku.

Now, it has become a large-scale fair and market for buying good luck charms, praying for a successful business, and welcoming in the new year.

It's also famous for the large array of kumade (decorative rakes made of bamboo said to bring luck) available for sale. Kumade were originally used for sweeping up fallen leaves, but it is said that using them to decorate your home brings in happiness.

These festivals and events are perfect opportunities to connect with traditional Japanese culture. If you get the chance, be sure to experience one (or all of them!) for yourself.

13. Nara Park Autumn Foliage Festival

Nara Park, known for its bowing deer and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, is also a famous spot for autumn koyo—fall leaf viewing!

During this time, the park is painted in deep red and gold crispy leaves, transforming the landscape into a beautiful autumn painting. Travelers can enjoy leisurely strolls surrounded by autumn leaves while visiting the historical sites and natural wonders of Nara Park and its nearby mountains.

Alongside maple leaves, you can admire golden ginkgo trees and participate in a variety of cultural events such as the Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri and Meiji-sai/Bunka no Hi Manyo Gagaku-kai.

o find out if any festivals are happening when you plan to visit Nara in autumn, be sure to check out Nara’s official website.

Enjoy Japan's Autumn Festivals

Due to the pleasant autumn weather with mostly clear skies, the three months from September to November are a time when many festivals and events are held. Don't miss out on these exciting occasions to experience one of the liveliest sides of Japanese culture!

All pictures from PIXTA