From Autumn Festival by angus

In Japan, Fall is a time of change and celebration, augmented by astounding natural beauty. The heat and humidity of the Summer begin to dissipate into a comfortable coolness as the leaves on the trees transform into burning scarlets and brilliant reds. Japan is very conscious of the seasons; the people there seem to change with them, including everything from their style of dress to the types of dishes they use. Festivals, which coincide with the agricultural calendar, come alive in Fall to celebrate the changes that bring about the Autumn harvest.

If you’re feeling inspired to explore this land of dynamic cities, quiet temples, and breathtaking countrysides, a fun way to begin is to partake in some of Japan’s lively Autumn festivals. Here are a few suggestions that will take you to Yatsuo, Kyoto, and Karatsu.

Kaze no Bon Festival

Thousands of paper lanterns are strewn above the cobblestone streets of the small, quiet town of Yatsuo in Toyama. From September 1-3, young men and women dressed in traditional Happi coats and Yukatas as well as straw hats dance in unison to elegant and somewhat sad music made with a rare Chinese instrument called the kokyuu. This enchanting festival has taken place for over 300 years, originally created to appease the wind in hopes of fending off typhoons and engendering a bountiful rice harvest. Over the years, Kaze no Bon (which literally translates to “Bon Dance of the Wind,”) has attracted more and more tourists because of its graceful charm and strange beauty. Travelers to Toyama may enjoy not only the festival, but an abundance of gorgeous parks and gardens, historic temples and castles, and cultural museums.

Resources:
Toyama Sightseeing Guide
Kaze No Bon Festival

Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)

This lively and colorful festival takes place in Kyoto on October 22nd each year. Participants dress in amazing costumes that represent the historical periods that took place from 794 (the transfer of the capital to Kyoto) to 1868 (that transfer of the capital to Tokyo.) A grand procession of costumed men and women, lead by a fife and drum corps, marches from the Kyoto Imperial Garden to the Heian Shrine over a distance of 2.8 miles. Over 2,000 people participate in the parade as thousands more stand by and watch this amazing spectacle that symbolizes Kyoto’s history through the ages.

Resources:
Kyoto Travel Guide
Kyoto Tourism
Top Ten Kyoto by In Wanderland
Kyoto’s three famous festivals
Festival of the Ages

Karatsu Kunchi

Karatsu City hosts this epic festival that takes place over three days, from November 2-4. Anywhere from between 150,000 to 500,000 people come to participate in the festivities, the hallmark of which is the giant hikiyamas, amazing floats built to resemble things like dragons, samauri helmets, fish, and other fanciful incarnations. Taiko drummers and flute players stand on the floats playing jovial music as the townsfolk carry the floats through the streets to shouts of “Enya! Enya!” and the cheers of onlookers. Balloons, fireworks, and great feasting are also central parts of this fun festival.

RealTraveler angus experienced Karatsu Kunchi last Fall, and had an incredible time. Here’s an excerpt from his journal, Autumn Festival:

“We stood at the base of the Shinto shrine at the end of the street for a great view through the massive Tori (gate) of the hikiyama making their way through the swarms of people. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and, typical for Japan, good-natured celebrations. Everyone was happy and loving life. One random guy who walked past Karen and I stopped to give me a small amulet. The festival is famous for the residents of Karatsu opening their doors to strangers to enter their houses to drink and eat with them. They really want to make sure everyone has a good time.” (more…)

Resources:
Karatsu Travel Guide
Karatsu Kunchi Festival

I’ve just mentioned a small handful of the amazing festivals that come to life all over Japan during the Autumn months. No matter where in Japan you’re planning to visit, chances are you’ll find a festival to attend. Fall is also a wonderful time to see the leaves change in Japan and to visit parks and temples. Check out the links below for more ideas on how to spend your Fall vacation.

More Useful Links about Japan

Japan: Calendar of Events
Japan Travel Guide
Japanese Festival Calendar
Top Spots in Japan