Autumn Local Festival Guide in Tokyo

Local festivals to celebrate the Autumn season

With almost 40 million people packed into the greater Tokyo metropolitan area, there are countless festivals and celebrations taking place across the region. Presented by local residents, who take pride in showcasing their neighborhood to the rest of the city, these festivals will give you a first-hand glimpse into the centuries-old traditions of the city. On top of that, they are also an excuse to let loose a bit and enjoy some cheer.

Kichijoji Autumn Festival

For over 50 years, locals in Kichijoji have kicked off the start of fall season with a bang during the Kichijoji Autumn Festival, carrying portable mikoshi shrines through the streets and gathering around Musashino Hachimangu Shrine. The festival takes place on the second Saturday and Sunday in September.

Shinagawa Shukuba-matsuri Festival

Experience Tokyo's vibrant culture and history at the Shinagawa Shukuba Matsuri. This festival is held annually in late September to celebrate the traditions and culture of Shinagawa, which was a post town along the Tokaido road during the Edo period (1603-1867). Various events are held, including a parade featuring people dressed in traditional costumes of the era.

Fukuro Matsuri

The Fukuro Matsuri is an annual festival that has been held in Ikebukuro since 1968. The festival consists of two parts: the mikoshi (portable shrine) parade in September and the Tokyo Yosakoi dance festival in October. Along with the large portable shrine parade, there will be traditional lion dances, hayashi music performances, stage shows, and more.

Tokyo Yosakoi

Tokyo Yosakoi is a festival held in October as the conclusion to the Fukuro Matsuri. This yosakoi dance event features over 100 teams from all over Japan. The teams wear traditional costumes and perform routines to the standard yosakoi folk song, as well as folk songs from other areas.

Asakusa Tori no Ichi

Tori no Ichi events are held on select days in November at various shrines in the city. The most spectacular version of this traditional festival is the "Tori no Ichi" held at Ohtori Jinja Shrine and Chokoku-ji Temple in Asakusa. Locals and travelers alike gather to pray for good fortune and health. The lively calls of vendors on the grounds can be heard as they sell charms and good-luck rakes. Nearby stalls offer hearty food and souvenirs until late into the evening.