October 2026 Events in Japan

Special Autumn Visit to Higashi Honganji Temple

Don’t miss Kyoto's Higashi Honganji Temple light-up this autumn. Enjoy breathtaking displays of ikebana and light, set against the majestic temple’s architecture.

Nature Groove

Groove in nature.

Dontsuku “Penis Festival”

A traditional fertility festival held in a small Shizuoka onsen town.

Sapporo Autumn Festival

Sapporo Autumn Fest offers a taste of Hokkaidō's finest flavors at Ōdōri Park.

Zuiki Festival

Celebrate autumn in Kyoto with the Zuiki Matsuri at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.

Ujicha Ceremony

A traditional tea-jar opening ceremony in Uji.

Yatsugatake Craft Market

Connect with craftspeople and pick up one-of-a-kind items for you and yours.

Flea Market Raku Kyoto

Don't miss this Kyoto flea market.

Mozu Hachiman Shrine Autumn Festival

This annual Moon-Viewing Festival features the spectacular Futon Daiko — massive, beautifully adorned floats.

Uneme Festival

A somber, but beautiful festival in Nara.

Kangetsu no Yube: Kyoto Full Moon Viewing

Float on a boat in a pond under a clear autumn moon.

Osaka Kansai Expo 2026 Fireworks

From sacred shrine illuminations to fierce pyrotechnic showdowns, each fireworks display tells a story.

Nagasaki Kunchi Festival

This vibrant celebration of Nagasaki's multicultural history is not to be missed.

Takayama Autumn Festival

This festival is the fall edition of the Takayama Spring Festival.

Lake Akan Marimo Festival

A significant festival conducted by the Ainu community that aims to protect the local marimo, round algae balls, from further pollution.

Osaka Kitchenware Street Festival

Stock up on all the best kitchenware, then eat your fill-what's not to love?

Saiin Kasuga Shrine Festival

A popular fall festival with parades, lantern displays, and food stalls.

Ōtsu Hikiyama Festival

This is one of Shiga's three largest festivals, and it's a spectacle you don't want to miss.

Arashiyama Autumn Fireworks

This short-and-sweet fireworks show takes place in Kyoto. Read on to find out more.

Hiroshima Sake Festival

Sake is the lifeblood of this small town in Hiroshima. Take part in its annual sake festival.

Kyoto Music Expo

This music festival shines a spotlight on sustainability.

Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival

Art for all. Study: Osaka Kansai International Art Festival brings immersive exhibitions, global artists, and hands-on activities in a family-friendly package.

Great Tug-of-War

The largest tug-of-war event in the world is held every year in Naha.

Kyoto Intercollegiate Festa

The Intercollegiate Festa is organized by the students of Kyoto.