Autumn Festivals in Japan 2026: Events in September-November

Japan's Autumn Festivals

Autumn in Japan (September to November) is a time of celebration, rooted deeply in traditional harvest festivals and sacred ceremonies.

Here is a month-by-month guide to the major autumn events across the country in 2026, including the best locations and how to experience them firsthand.

Autumn Festivals and Events in Japan

September Events in Japan
1. Otsukimi: Moon Viewing Festivals
2. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka, September 18 - 20
3. USJ Halloween: September 11 - November 8
4. Huis Ten Bosch Halloween Festival: September to November
October Events in Japan
5. Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, October 22
6. Nagasaki Kunchi festival, October 7 - 9
7. Kawagoe Festival, October 17 - 18
8. Takayama Autumn Festival, October 9 - 10
9. Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto, October 22
10. Bakeneko Festival (Cat Halloween Parade) in Tokyo, October 11
November Events in Japan
11. Shichi-Go-San Ceremonies Across Japan
12. Tori no Ichi, November 7 and 19
13. Nara Park: Autumn Foliage Festival

September Events in Japan

1. Otsukimi - Moon Viewing Festivals 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.

In 2026, the Moon Viewing Festivals (Tsukimi) will be held on the night of September 25.

2. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka, September 18 - 20

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 traditional instruments, and the people in charge shouting directions from the roofs of the floats, this festival is something you cannot miss.

3. USJ Halloween: September 11 - November 8

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka is famous for its thrilling "Halloween Horror Night," an annual event that transforms the entire park into one massive Halloween celebration!

While the specific highlights change every year, the daily lineup always promises non-stop entertainment. During the day, the park’s lovable characters dress up for the occasion to host an array of family-friendly events. Once the sun sets, the atmosphere shifts as terrifying zombies take over the streets—occasionally breaking into massive, synchronized dance numbers!

Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, USJ’s Halloween Horror Night 2026 will run from September 11 through November 8.

In addition to the spooky entertainment, visitors can indulge in exclusive, Halloween-themed food and drinks throughout the season. If you love thrills and all things Halloween, a trip to USJ is an absolute must when visiting Japan! For more details and to plan your visit, check out the official website: Universal Studios Japan.

4. Huis Ten Bosch Halloween: September 18 - November 3

Picture courtesy of PR Times

Each year, Nagasaki's Huis Ten Bosch—Japan's largest theme park—holds a dazzling Halloween festival! From September 18 to November 3, 2026, 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 three largest festivals 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 (1603-1868) period and the early Meiji Period (1868-1912).

Each outfit and prop used by the participants is made in secret under the supervision of specialists.

6. Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, October 7 - 9

Taking the spotlight in Nagasaki each autumn, the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival is a centuries-old event that has been celebrated for over 400 years. It is officially designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.

Vibrant with color, history, and the artistic traditions of multiple countries, this festival provides a unique glimpse into Nagasaki’s rich multicultural heritage—once one of Japan’s most important port trading towns.

Held at Suwa Shrine from October 7 for three days each year, the festival features stunning boat floats inspired by countries such as the Netherlands, China, and Portugal—nations with which Japan historically maintained diplomatic relations.

These captivating displays run from morning until night over the three days, with each year's procession offering new surprises! If you find yourself in Japan in October and are planning a trip to Kyushu, we highly recommend attending this festival—one of Nagasaki’s top three autumn events.

7. Kawagoe Festival, October 17 - 18

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

Rooted in the historic annual festival of Hikawa Shrine, this lively event 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.

In 2026, the Kawagoe Festival will be held on October 17 and 18.

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

Experience the excitement in Kyoto by attending the renowned Kurama Fire Festival, which is estimated to be over 1,000 years old!

This spectacular event originated during the Heian Period (794–1185), a time marked by natural disasters and civil unrest in Kyoto. To celebrate the arrival of the deity, villagers would carry torches and parade to Kurama in a lively and joyful 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 11, 2026

Bakeneko are supernatural feline entities from Japanese folklore, often spoken of alongside other yokai (spirits) and ghosts.

The myths surrounding these shape-shifting cat demons vary by region. In northern Japan's Ibaraki Prefecture, it is believed that any cat living past the age of 12 can transform into a bakeneko. Meanwhile, a legend from Hiroshima warns that a cat reaching just 7 years old will turn into a malicious spirit capable of harming its owner.

Regardless of their origin, bakeneko are renowned for their shape-shifting abilities—frequently transforming into humans or manipulating the living. Perhaps the most famous illustration of this power is the chilling tale of Takasu Genbei.

Every October, the Kagurazaka Bakeneko Parade (aka the Cat Halloween 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!

In 2026, the Bakeneko Cat Halloween Parade will be held on October 11 (Sunday) from 10:00 to 17:00 on the streets of Kagurazaka, Tokyo. Please visit the official website of the event for details.

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 7 and 19

Dedicated to the Rooster in the Chinese Zodiac, the Tori no Ichi festival began as a celebration of the harvest and is held at Otori Shrine in Asakusa and Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku.

Today, it has grown into a large-scale fair and market, where visitors buy good luck charms, pray for successful ventures, and welcome the New Year.

The festival is particularly famous for its wide array of kumade—decorative bamboo rakes believed to bring good fortune. Originally used for sweeping fallen leaves, kumade are now decorated and displayed as symbols of happiness and prosperity.

These festivals and events offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with traditional Japanese culture. If you have the chance, be sure to experience one (or all of them!) for yourself.

In 2026, the impressive Tori no Ichi Festivals will be held on November 7 and 19.

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.

To 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