Overview

September in Japan marks the transition from summer to autumn, bringing cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. While typhoon season is still active, it’s also a great time for traditional festivals, moon-viewing events, and the start of autumn foliage in northern regions. This month offers a mix of cultural experiences and scenic beauty, making it an excellent time to visit.

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Top 5 Events

1. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

Where: Kishiwada, Osaka Prefecture

When: Mid-September

• One of Japan’s most thrilling and intense festivals
• Massive wooden floats (danjiri) are pulled at high speed through city streets
• A display of skill, strength, and coordination, backed by music and local energy

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2. Owara Kaze no Bon

Where: Yatsuo, Toyama Prefecture

When: 1–3 September

• A graceful and haunting folk dance performed in historic streets
• Dancers in straw hats move in perfect unison to traditional music
• A calm and atmospheric festival, ideal for those seeking a quieter experience

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3. Tsukimi – Moon Viewing Festival

Where: Nationwide (especially Kyoto, Nara, and Tokyo)

When: Mid to late September (Harvest Moon)

• Celebrates the full autumn moon with tea ceremonies and poetry readings
• Enjoy tsukimi dango (moon-viewing dumplings) and seasonal sake
• Many temples and shrines host beautifully lit evening events

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4. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route – Autumn Foliage

Where: Toyama and Nagano Prefectures

When: From late September

• Stunning early autumn colours in the Japanese Alps
• Offers panoramic views via cable cars and mountain buses
• Perfect for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers

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5. Seto Inland Sea Art Festival (Autumn Session)

Where: Naoshima, Teshima, and nearby islands

When: September–October (triennial years only)

• Contemporary art installations displayed across island landscapes
• Explore open-air sculptures, architecture, and immersive art
• A unique fusion of culture, nature, and remote island charm

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Additional Events

Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri

Where: Okinawa City

When: Early September

• Energetic Eisa dance and drumming festival
• A great way to experience Okinawa’s cultural spirit

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Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai

Where: Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture

When: 14–16 September

• Grand Shinto festival at Kamakura’s most important shrine
• Includes traditional processions and yabusame (horseback archery)
• A culturally rich but smaller-scale event compared to other major festivals

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Choyo no Sekku – Chrysanthemum Festival

Where: Nationwide (notable at Meiji Shrine, Tokyo & Atsuta Shrine, Nagoya)

When: 9 September

• Celebrates chrysanthemums, symbols of longevity and purity
• Features flower displays, tea ceremonies, and chrysanthemum-infused sake

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Ishioka Festival

Where: Ishioka, Ibaraki Prefecture

When: Mid-September

• One of eastern Japan’s biggest traditional festivals
• Includes mikoshi, giant lion masks, and samurai parades

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Shimada Obi Matsuri (next in 2026)

Where: Shimada, Shizuoka Prefecture

When: Late September (every 3 years)

• Rare festival celebrating kimono sashes (obi)
• Traditional parades and classical music and dance performances

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Additional Tips

• Watch the weather, as typhoons are common throughout September
• Cooler temperatures make this a great time to explore the countryside and mountains
• Shrines and temples are less crowded, ideal for peaceful visits
• Seasonal foods include chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and sanma (Pacific saury)
• Explore art destinations, especially Naoshima and the Seto Inland Sea

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