Sep–Nov
Seasonal Feature
Autumn Festivals
A season of harvest, a season of festivals.
About This Feature
As the heat fades and trees begin turning red and gold, autumn festivals and foliage events spring up across Japan.
Annual shrine festivals and traditional performing arts offer a precious window into local history and culture. Harvest fairs let you taste the freshest seasonal ingredients and experience regional food traditions firsthand.
Spending an autumn day enjoying a festival surrounded by colorful foliage has a richness all its own, different from spring or summer. Bring your camera and capture the beauty of the season.
Seasonal Highlights
Autumn Leaves & Festivals
Festivals set against a backdrop of colorful foliage are incredibly photogenic. Events held at famous autumn leaf spots are especially popular.
Taste the Harvest
New rice, fresh sake, chestnuts, sweet potatoes — harvest festivals bring together the best seasonal flavors for a delicious food walk.
Traditional Arts & Rituals
Autumn is peak season for shrine festivals featuring mikoshi processions, lion dances, and taiko drumming — a chance to witness living traditions up close.
Comfortable Weather
With no summer heatstroke risk, autumn festivals are perfect for leisurely, extended outings. You can spend the whole day outside with ease.
Events
Tips for Enjoying
Layer Up for Temperature Swings
Autumn days can be warm but mornings and evenings cool. Wear layers you can easily add or remove for maximum comfort.
Buy Seasonal Produce Early
Fresh harvest items at festivals are often limited in quantity. If something catches your eye, grab it before it sells out.
Charge Your Camera
Autumn foliage plus festival scenes mean photo ops everywhere. Bring a portable charger so you don't run out of battery.
Check the Venue on MAP
Find crowds & food stall locations