Festivals & Fireworks

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

約4,000発の花火が夜空を彩る、宿毛市の秋の祭典！ステージイベントや豪華芸人のライブも楽しめます。

Oct 13

Experience the powerful Yabusame horseback archery at the Kashiigu Autumn Festival. Don't miss the chance to witness sacred rituals and collect unique lucky charms.

Oct 13

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Sone Tenmangu Autumn Festival. From the dazzlingly decorated floats to the intense bamboo-splitting ceremony and stunning night illuminations, this is a must-see traditional event.

Oct 13

A special event at Fuji Milk Land showcasing the charm of livestock and forestry! Enjoy hands-on milking experiences, woodworking, and the exciting Straw Roll Race. A perfect way to experience Japan's natural heritage.

Oct 14

Witness the intense battle of fire and sparks! Experience the legendary 1,100-year-old Chikutsu Hinokami Matsuri in Kumamoto.

Oct 14

Experience the mystical Kebesu Matsuri in Oita, where flaming ferns and sparks dance through the air. A powerful ritual to pray for health and good fortune.

Oct 14

Witness the intense collision of three massive portable shrines! The Nada no Kenka Matsuri in Himeji, Hyogo, features spectacular floats and high-energy traditional rituals.

Oct 14

Experience the thrill of traditional acrobatics atop 10m bamboo poles! Witness the legendary Fox Dance at Wakamiya Inari Shrine in Nagasaki.

Oct 14 – Oct 15

Experience the elegance of Bugaku dance at the historic Itsukushima Shrine. A special evening of traditional Japanese beauty and chrysanthemum offerings.

Oct 15

A grand celebration of Nagoya's history and tradition, originating from the commemoration of Tokugawa Ieyasu's third anniversary. Enjoy magnificent costumes and traditional arts at Hisaya Odori Park.

Oct 15

Don't miss the 75th anniversary of the Takefu Kiku Ningyo in 2026. These incredibly detailed dolls made of chrysanthemum flowers showcase the pinnacle of Japanese floral artistry. The event typically runs from mid-October to early November.

Oct 15 – Nov 1

Discover the sacred rituals and local spirit of Kumano Sansho Jinja. This is a unique opportunity to experience the heart of Japanese spiritual culture through traditional ceremonies.

Oct 16

Experience the magical reflection of fireworks on the waters of Inba Numa. Enjoy a spectacular light show against the beautiful autumn night sky.

Oct 16

Witness the 2-ton Taiko-dai in motion! Experience the power and tradition of the Niihama Taiko Matsuri, one of Japan's top three fighting festivals.

Oct 16

Experience the traditional Yabusame horseback archery at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Nikko Toshogu. A spectacular fusion of historic architecture and powerful Japanese martial arts.

Oct 16

Experience the mystical 'Manto Kuyo' at Daian-ji in Nara, where thousands of lanterns illuminate the night sky. The breathtaking contrast of light and shadow creates an unforgettable way to connect with Japanese tradition and spiritual beauty.

Oct 16

Experience the powerful Daihannya-kyo Tendoku-kai! Witness sutras dancing in the air before the National Treasure Fuku-kaso Kannon during this once-a-year special opening of Nan-endo in Nara.

Oct 17

Experience the Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition, where 14,000 fireworks light up the Kumamoto sky. Enjoy a breathtaking blend of traditional competitive fireworks, music, and drone shows.

Oct 17

数万個の灯明が街を照らす、福岡・博多の幻想的な秋の夜。歴史ある街並みと光の芸術を体験しませんか？

Oct 17

Experience the grand Samurai Procession at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Nikko Toshogu. Witness the powerful history of the Tokugawa era through traditional dances and armored warriors.

Oct 17

Experience the sacred Kanname Hoshuku-sai at Futaarayama Jinja in Utsunomiya, Tochigi. Witness traditional Shinto rituals and immerse yourself in Japan's historic spiritual culture.

Oct 17

Enjoy the spectacular Kawagoe Matsuri, featuring UNESCO-listed floats and the high-energy 'Hikikasé' parade. A perfect way to experience traditional Japanese culture in a historic setting.

Oct 17 – Oct 18

Celebrate the 70th anniversary of Kunotomi Town! A major autumn event featuring enka music and family-friendly activities.

Oct 17 – Oct 18

Experience the charm of an American country fair at the Paul Rusch Festival in Kiyosato this October. Immerate yourself in the rich history and stunning natural beauty of the Yatsugatake region during this special harvest celebration.

Oct 17 – Oct 18

Experience the exquisite aroma of fresh autumn buckwheat. Enjoy a special seasonal soba journey in Yamato, Kitakata.

Oct 17 – Nov 23

Experience the elegance of Gagaku music and the lively energy of traditional food stalls at Shimogamo Jinja this autumn.

Oct 18

A must-see festival with 970 years of history. Don't miss the intense Tsugishishi lion dance and the breathtaking Goshinko procession where many shrines gather. Feel the profound beauty of Japanese tradition at Soja Shrine.

Oct 18

Experience a sophisticated autumn in the historic Kurashiki Bikan district. Discover the beauty of heirloom folding screens and seasonal floral displays in this stunning Japan Heritage setting.

Oct 18

A spectacular 200-person historical parade at Achi Shrine. Experience traditional Japanese dances and unique local customs in a beautiful autumn setting.

Oct 18

A traditional procession featuring massive 'Do' drums parading through the historic streets of Matsue Castle, offering a deep glimpse into the culture of the Izumo region.

Oct 18

Experience the legendary dances of Hikoshima! Witness the energetic movements of children and the brave warriors in the Sai-agari Shinji ritual.

Oct 18

Experience the Takayama Yabusame Festival in Kimotsuki, Kagoshima! Enjoy powerful horseback archery, samurai parades, and delicious local food this autumn.

Oct 18

Experience the 100-year history of Wakamatsu! Just a 5-minute walk from JR Wakamatsu Station, this festival offers a vibrant look at Japanese tradition and local life along Nakagawa Street.

Oct 18

Experience the powerful beats of three Futon-daiko drums echoing through the historic streets of Yoshino. A perfect way to celebrate autumn in Nara.

Oct 18

A breathtaking 5-day fireworks event over Kobe's waterfront. The 2026 edition features a special 5th-anniversary production. Enjoy a luxurious moment alongside the city's beautiful night view.

Oct 19

Don't forget to bring warm clothing to enjoy the beautiful autumn fireworks in comfort!

Oct 19

Experience the Funaoka Taimei Festival at Kenkun Jinja. Witness traditional Gagaku dance and matchlock gun demonstrations in honor of Oda Nobunaga.

Oct 19

Experience the thrilling 'Kenka Danjiri' as 2-3 ton heavy floats collide head-on amidst a beautiful, historic Japanese townscape!

Oct 19 – Oct 20

A special 5-day event where music and fireworks unite. Enjoy a stunning, free-to-view musical fireworks display against the beautiful night scenery of Meriken Park in Kobe. Don't miss the 5th-anniversary celebrations!

Oct 19 – Oct 23

Experience traditional Japanese rituals and culture at the historic Futarayama Jinja in Utsunomiya, Tochigi. A perfect opportunity to witness sacred ceremonies and collect unique Goshuin stamps.

Oct 19

Experience the grandeur of the Fujiwara clan through traditional rituals and performances at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji. A perfect way to connect with Japan's spiritual history and autumn beauty.

Oct 20

Experience the grandeur of the Kakezuka Yatai Matsuri, featuring 600 years of history, magnificent floats, and elegant music in Shizuoka.

Oct 20

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Minamiaizu. Witness powerful traditional drumming and taste authentic local cuisine amidst a stunning landscape of historic farmhouses and waterwheels.

Oct 20 – Oct 31

Enjoy a vibrant festival featuring local markets, craft beer, sake, and regional specialties in Fujinomiya!

Oct 20

Witness the spectacular Kawagoe Matsuri, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event. The high-energy 'Hikika-wase' float competition at night is a breathtaking sight you won't want to miss!

Oct 21

Experience the traditional Shimonomiya Rei-sai, held at the sacred birthplace of Futarasan Shrine. Discover beautiful shrine architecture and ancient rituals as part of your historical journey through Utsunomiya.

Oct 21

A rare opportunity to view the National Treasure 'Kinkei Shari-to' at the World Heritage site, Toshodai-ji. Don't miss this chance to feel the breath of history.

Oct 21 – Oct 23

Witness the intense energy of the Kurama Fire Festival! A must-see traditional event that illuminates the night with roaring flames and historic fervor in the mountains of Kyoto.

Oct 22

A profound cultural experience at Futarasan Jinja in Utsunomiya. Witness traditional rituals held within a sacred space surrounded by nature. Perfect for travelers interested in Japanese history and spiritual traditions.

Oct 22

A rare opportunity to see the life-sized Kyosei Kannon at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Horyu-ji. Experience the sacred autumn opening at the Yumedono.

Oct 22 – Nov 22

Experience the traditional San-o Jinja Festival near Miyajima. Discover the historical legacy of Taira no Kiyomori and the breathtaking beauty of the bronze torii gate.

Oct 23

Hakata Okunchi is a must-see autumn festival in Fukuoka, famous for its magnificent decorations and traditional ceremonies. Immerse yourself in the local culture during this special two-day event in Hakata much more deeply than a typical tourist visit would allow.

Oct 23 – Oct 24

A 1,300-year-old Tohoku tradition! Witness the intense, high-speed race between two sacred shrines in the dark of early morning. A truly powerful and historic experience.

Oct 23 – Oct 25

Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of the World Heritage site, Tamaki Jinja, where ancient Jindai-sugi trees protect a truly unique spiritual experience.

Oct 23

Experience the powerful rhythms of the 12th Kusabue no Oka Taiko Festival. Watch professional drummers or try the hands-on workshop to feel the beat yourself. A perfect cultural experience for families and friends!

Oct 24 – Oct 25

Witness the intense 'Danjiri Kenka' where iron-armored floats collide in a shower of sparks! Experience the powerful energy and traditional music of Maniwa, Okayama.

Oct 24

Experience the powerful resonance of the Maesaka O-daiko, a traditional festival and cultural treasure of Hamamatsu.

Oct 24

A 40-minute jazz and fireworks fantasy! Experience the stunning 400m Niagara fireworks over the Wakamatsu Bridge.

Oct 24

A massive event in Kobe where music and food collide! Experience the best of the Kobe Bay Area at MASHUP FESTIVAL kobe’26.

Oct 24