Festivals & Fireworks

A spectacular Toyama tradition featuring 13 ornate floats. Don't miss the colorful daytime parades and the breathtaking sight of the illuminated lanterns at night.

Sep 30 – Oct 2

Experience the best of Uenohara with local gourmet food, fresh produce, and lively stage performances!

Oct 1

A rare autumn festival at Kitano Tenmangu featuring portable shrines made from dried taro stalks. The natural, organic design of the mikoshi is a must-see.

Oct 1

Experience the powerful Shishi Lion Dance and blazing torches at Harada Jinja, a cultural treasure of Toyonaka. Feel the spirit of Japan at this historic shrine.

Oct 1 – Oct 10

Experience the profound spiritual traditions of Japan at Utsunomiya Futarayama Jinja. From sacred prayers for family well-being to collecting beautiful Goshuin, discover a peaceful way to connect with Japanese culture in a stunning natural setting.

Oct 1

A historic 800-year festival featuring 5m tall floats and fierce lion dances. Don't miss the mystical night illumination!

Oct 2

A special two-day celebration for castle lovers held at the foot of Kumamoto Castle! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese castle culture.

Oct 3 – Oct 4

Experience a traditional Shinto ritual at the historic Akunami Jinja. A unique day to witness the sacred ceremonies and the vibrant spirit of a local Japanese festival.

Oct 3

Witness a breathtaking parade of Japan's most iconic historical figures! On Sundays, many sites around Nagoya Castle offer free admission, making it a perfect day for a historical tour and sightseeing exploration.

Oct 3

A special ritual at Akasaka Hikawa Jinja to pray for the safety of chefs and business prosperity. Experience the spirit of gratitude toward food in this serene, historic setting.

Oct 3

KOBE AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2026, held on October 3–4, 2026, is Kobe's largest urban autumn festival. Immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn season in the heart of Kobe.

Oct 3 – Oct 4

A high-energy beach soccer festival set against beautiful blue seas! Choose from five different classes to create amazing memories on the sand.

Oct 3 – Oct 4

Experience the heart of Sado at Sado (310) Gashima Fes 2026! Join special guest Kee [Shimauchi] for a day of incredible food, culture, and island energy.

Oct 3

A special Kamakura festival featuring manga-inspired monuments and beautiful lanterns. Experience the unique blend of Japanese tradition and pop culture history.

Oct 4

Experience the powerful drums and vibrant Eisa dance! Feel the soul of Okinawa at the Ginowan City Youth Eisa Festival.

Oct 4

Immerse yourself in the Iizaka Kenka Matsuri, one of Japan's most intense festivals. Feel the ground shake as massive floats collide amidst thunderous drumming. A must-see for fans of traditional Japanese festivals and high-energy culture!

Oct 4

Don't miss the high-speed 'yarimawashi' cornering! While Nankai Electric Railway is convenient, consider using the JR Higashi-Kishiwada Station route to avoid heavy crowds on your return trip.

Oct 4

A mystical celebration of light and autumn in Shimabara Onsen. Perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing soak and a magical night out.

Oct 4

Witness a massive 1,000m wide panorama of fireworks! Enjoy a spectacular display of light inspired by Tanabe's famous plum blossoms.

Oct 4

Enjoy Ikeda's premium wine and roasted beef! A special gourmet festival in Hokkaido (Pre-purchase tickets required).

Oct 4

Experience the thrill of 560 years of tradition! Witness the massive 'Iwayama' floats and the intense 'Kenka Yamakasa' battle in Fukuoka.

Oct 4

Celebrate 500 years of history at the 'Castle in the Sky'! Enjoy samurai demonstrations, VR experiences, and much more at Naegi Castle.

Oct 4

Witness the enchanting glow of lanterns at Nihonmatsu Shrine. Immerse yourself in a serene, traditional Japanese night filled with flickering light and ancient beauty.

Oct 5

Experience the breathtaking 1,000m golden panorama fireworks over the beautiful coast of Wakayama for an unforgettable night.

Oct 5

Massive fireworks blooming directly overhead! Experience spectacular star mines and traditional festivals in Komatsushima. A perfect autumn night in Tokushima awaits.

Oct 6

Experience a traditional autumn in Kagawa with expressive lion dances and the sacred Okacho ritual at Tamura Jinja.

Oct 7 – Oct 8

Experience the mystical roots of Japanese Noh and Kyogen through the Okina-mai dance. Witness this sacred ritual illuminated by bonfire light at the historic Nara Mamehiko Shrine.

Oct 8

Experience the sacred Daihannya-kyo chanting and Goma fire ritual at Horyu-ji's Saien-do. A profound opportunity to witness traditional Japanese Buddhist rituals at a World Heritage site.

Oct 8

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hida Takayama through UNESCO-listed ornate floats and exquisite mechanical puppet performances.

Oct 9 – Oct 10

A breathtaking autumn celebration in Takayama featuring golden floats and traditional arts. A must-see cultural experience in the historic streets of Gifu.

Oct 9

Experience the traditional Shinkoshiki ceremony and the vibrant Okunchi Festival at the historic Aoi Aso Shrine. A perfect way to witness the beauty of Japanese heritage.

Oct 9

Experience the grandest festival of Kotohira-gu. The 2km-long Omiyuki procession is a stunning spectacle reminiscent of an ancient Japanese picture scroll. A truly special encounter with Japanese tradition.

Oct 9

Experience the thrill of Otsu Matsuri, a UNESCO-recognized festival featuring grand floats and mechanical puppets. Witness the historic procession and the vibrant energy of Shiga's traditional culture.

Oct 9

Experience a special 4-day festival in the beautiful Mojiko Retro district! Enjoy authentic German Festbier and Kyushu craft beers amidst a stunning historical landscape.

Oct 9 – Oct 12

A stunning traditional festival featuring magnificent floats, powerful lion dances, and evocative music amidst the historic atmosphere of Kakegawa Castle town.

Oct 10

A spectacular festival where the grandeur of the Sanada clan meets historic streets. Experience the spirit of the samurai and traditional Japanese culture in a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Oct 10

A traditional fireworks festival in Ogaki, Gifu. Experience the breathtaking art of light and color in the beautiful autumn night sky.

Oct 10

A special 3-day event featuring traditional Koishiwara-yaki. A must-visit for pottery lovers to find beautiful, direct-from-the-kiln ceramics.

Oct 10 – Oct 12

Get up to 40% off Nambu Tekki! Enjoy high-energy competitions and hands-on artisan workshops. A must-visit annual festival to experience the beauty of Japanese ironware.

Oct 10 – Oct 11

Experience the unique 'En-kiri En-musubi Ishi' ritual at Yasui Konpiragu's annual festival. A profound way to pray for new connections and better ties in the heart of Kyoto.

Oct 10

Experience the Sake Matsuri in Saijo, the heart of sake culture! Enjoy nationwide sake tastings, explore historic brewery streets, and enjoy family-friendly activities. A perfect autumn trip to Hiroshima!

Oct 10 – Oct 11

Experience the thrill of 4,000 fireworks and lively stage shows in Sukumo!

Oct 10 – Oct 12

Experience the 200-year history of the Tanakura Autumn Festival. Witness the powerful clash of grand floats and the rhythmic sounds of traditional music in the heart of Fukushima.

Oct 10 – Oct 11

Join us at Midori-no-shima in Hakodate on October 10, 2026! This rock festival brings together incredible artists for a day of music, local food, and much more. Don't forget to bring warm clothing to enjoy the autumn air!

Oct 10

Witness the solemn and sacred ceremonies of Wakasa Hiko Shrine. These traditional festivals held in March and October offer a rare glimpse into Japan's deep-rooted spiritual culture and local history.

Oct 10

Enjoy a breathtaking autumn night in Yonezawa. Be sure to bring warm clothing to stay comfortable while watching the fireworks under the night sky.

Oct 10

Witness the power of 10 magnificent floats parading through the streets! Experience the spirited autumn tradition of Hikari City, Yamaguchi, firsthand.

Oct 11

Experience the epic history of the Sanada clan! Don't miss the breathtaking historical parade in Numata.

Oct 11

Witness the epic scale of the Battle of Sekigahara! Experience the breathtaking 'Kassen Emaki' reenactment with samurai warriors right before your eyes.

Oct 11

A grand historic festival! Witness the thrilling float battles and the enchanting illuminated night parades. Don't miss this chance to experience the beauty of Japanese tradition.

Oct 11

A thrilling festival in Kishiwada, Osaka, featuring massive Danjiri floats racing through the streets. The highlight is the intense 'Miyairi' movement as the floats head toward the shrines.

Oct 11 – Oct 12

Experience the Rei-sai (Autumn Festival) at Futarayama Jinja in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, to witness traditional Shinto rituals and seasonal history.

Oct 11

Experience the massive 'Yagura' floats and traditional music of the Sennan City Autumn Festival. A vibrant, high-energy autumn event in Osaka!

Oct 11 – Oct 12

Savor premium beef and shout your heart out in nature! Join this exclusive 400-person event in Yufuin.

Oct 12

Experience the breathtaking 'No-no-ji' turns and magnificent floats in the historic streets of Sawara during this grand autumn festival.

Oct 12

Experience the Saijo Matsuri, a celebration of history and community. Immerse yourself in the authentic traditions of the Saijo region.

Oct 12

Experience the breathtaking Sakoshi no Funa Matsuri, where traditional Japanese ships and glowing lanterns create a magical maritime parade. A must-see spectacle of light and history.

Oct 12

A traditional festival in northern Miyazaki featuring dancers in traditional hats and spirited Mikoshi processions. Experience the vibrant energy of Hachiman Shrine and the local shopping streets.

Oct 12

Experience the energy of Sendai! Watch powerful YOSAKOI dance performances and join the massive community dance to create unforgettable autumn memories.

Oct 13

Witness the sheer scale of the Naha Giant Tug-of-War, a world-class event featuring a 200m rope and 40 tons of weight. Experience the intense energy and deep-rooted traditions of Okinawa's most iconic festival.

Oct 13