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September in Japan marks the beginning of autumn, bringing cooler temperatures, beautiful seasonal foods, and culturally rich celebrations. For travelers interested in Japanese traditions, this month offers a perfect blend of ancient customs and scenic beauty. Here are the most notable September festivals and cultural events in Japan.
1. Tsukimi (月見) – The Japanese Moon-Viewing Festival
Tsukimi, or “Moon Viewing,” is one of Japan’s most poetic autumn traditions. Celebrated in mid-September, this event honors the beauty of the full moon and expresses gratitude for a good harvest.
Key Features
- Families display susuki (Japanese pampas grass) as decorations.
- Special foods such as Tsukimi dango (round rice dumplings) are offered to the moon.
- Many temples and gardens host moon-viewing events, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Why It’s Special
Tsukimi shows Japan’s deep appreciation for nature and the changing seasons, making it a unique cultural experience for visitors.
2. Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日 – Keirō no Hi)
National Holiday – Third Monday of September
Keirō no Hi is a Japanese public holiday dedicated to celebrating and honoring elders. Families often visit grandparents, share meals, or give small gifts.
Highlights
- Community centers hold events to celebrate seniors.
- Schools often create handmade gifts for local elderly residents.
- The holiday reflects Japan’s strong values of respect, gratitude, and family unity.
3. Autumn Equinox Day (秋分の日 – Shūbun no Hi)
National Holiday – Around September 22–23
The Autumn Equinox is a time to honor ancestors and appreciate the balance between day and night.
Cultural Practices
- Families visit ancestral graves for ohaka-mairi (grave cleaning and prayers).
- Many people spend the day with family, enjoying quiet reflection.
- This holiday is part of the Higan period, a Buddhist tradition focused on spiritual balance.
4. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (岸和田だんじり祭) – Osaka’s Famous Float Race
One of Japan’s most intense and energetic festivals, the Danjiri Matsuri is held in Kishiwada, Osaka, every September.
What to Expect
- Teams pull massive wooden floats (danjiri) through the streets at remarkable speed.
- Traditional music and cheering fill the city.
- It is known as one of Japan’s most thrilling and dynamic festivals.
Best For
Travelers seeking a powerful, high-energy cultural experience.
5. Owara Kaze no Bon (おわら風の盆) – Toyama’s Elegant Lantern Festival
Held from September 1–3 in Toyama Prefecture.
This romantic festival is famous for its mysterious atmosphere created by lantern-lit streets and graceful traditional dances.
Highlights
- Slow, elegant dances performed in yukata.
- Haunting melodies played with shamisen and kokyū.
- Streets illuminated with warm lanterns create a nostalgic mood.
6. Grape and Pear Picking Season
September is peak season for Japanese fruit picking, especially grapes and pears.
Why It’s Popular
- Visitors can enjoy fresh, high-quality Japanese fruits directly from local farms.
- Popular regions include Yamanashi (for grapes) and Chiba or Tottori (for pears).
- This activity is perfect for families and food lovers.
7. Beginning of Autumn Leaves in Northern Japan
While the famous fall foliage peaks in October–November, northern areas like Hokkaido start turning red and gold in late September.
Top Spots
- Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido)
- Mount Asahidake
- Sounkyo Gorge
For nature lovers, early autumn provides stunning scenery without the peak-season crowds.
Final Thoughts
September is a wonderful time to explore Japan, combining:
- Cooler weather
- Deep cultural traditions
- Spectacular early autumn landscapes
- Unique festivals not found anywhere else
Whether you’re interested in historical customs like Tsukimi or high-energy festivals like the Danjiri Matsuri, September offers unforgettable experiences for travelers wanting to connect with authentic Japanese culture.