Japan has spectacular foliage in the fall. At different points in the season, leaves throughout the country change color. Also, fall is an eventful time to visit. Fall festivals abound. Kyoto, Tokyo, and Takayama are three cities where you can find autumn festivals. Surrounded by beauty, you can enjoy the activities and performances these autumn festivities offer. You can watch parades and other spectacles. You can sample ramen from around the country. These festivals can allow you to appreciate the wonder of autumn.
Fall Splendor in Japan
Japan Highlights suggests: “Visiting Japan in autumn (September to November) is a perfect idea.” One reason is that the landscape is lit up with resplendently colorful foliage displays. October is a particularly vibrant month. Japan Nakama states: “October in Japan is when the country truly shifts into autumn.”
Autumn leaves in the northern section of the country are the first to change color. According to Japan Nakama, “the changing leaves follow a north-to-south wave.” You can plan your travels accordingly. Another feature of fall to consider is the prevalence of festivals. These festivals can offer a variety of wonderful activities. You can balance your visit between foliage viewing and festival-hopping.
An Array of Festivals in Autumn
Festivals happen throughout the fall. They are good ways to immerse yourself in engaging cultural traditions. Additionally, they can highlight beautifully the venues where they take place. According to Japan Highlights, festivals include “daytime parades, evening lantern floats, and… street food stalls.” In some evening autumn festivities, scenic locations are illuminated. These festivities can be found between the end of October and the middle of December.
You can also attend the Mid-Autumn Festival. The Mid-Autumn Festival is engaging and multifaceted. According to Japan Highlights, this is “a festival that represents autumn in Japan.” At the Mid-Autumn Festival, the full moon is an attraction. A bonus is that you can both view the moon and take in traditional performances. This festival generally happens in either September or October.
Places to Visit for Autumn Festival Fun
One place where you can participate in festivals in the fall is Kyoto. Kyoto is a great place for festivals with light displays at scenic locations. Kyoto is ideal for seeing the displays these festivals feature. Japan Highlights explains: “Many shrines feature vibrant maple leaves and hold evening light-up events.” Kodaiji Temple is a location within Kyoto that holds these festivities. This temple is scenic and conveniently located. Additionally, the festival-related events put on at this temple are engaging. Kyoto is also a wonderful place for the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is a recommended place to enjoy this festival.
Tokyo is another autumn festival location. From October 23 to November 4, Tokyo Ramen Festa is happening. Japan Nakama explains that this “outdoor ramen festival brings together regional noodle shops.” These noodle shops offer tasty food from around the country. The location of the festival is Komazawa Olympic Park. Japan Nakama states: “Visitors can sample unique broths and toppings.” Food enthusiasts can have a wonderful day at this festival in Tokyo.
You can also travel to Takayama for a festival there. The Takayama Autumn Festival is described as a must-see. Japan Highlights recommends: “Enjoy elegantly decorated float parades during the day and at night.” There are also performances by mechanical puppets. These puppets are called karakuri ningyo. The festival is happening from October 9 to October 10.
Overview of Engaging Festivals
Autumn in Japan is a lovely time of year. Taking in the fall foliage is a joy. The festivals put on during this time are also amazing. They are varied and inviting. Festivals feature elements of the natural surroundings, such as the full moon or the leaves. They showcase cultural traditions such as puppetry and other forms of traditional performance. Many places have put on festivities during this season. For instance, Kyoto, Takayama, and Tokyo are all festival locations to consider.
