Autumn Festivals in Japan 2025 – Don’t Miss These October Events!
This blog is brought to you by Hana, our Local Explorer — a travel-savvy voice from our team who specializes in uncovering Japan's seasonal and regional gems.
When you think of autumn in Japan, stunning foliage and seasonal cuisine may come to mind. But fall is also festival season, offering unforgettable opportunities to experience local traditions.
If you’re visiting Japan in October 2025, here are three major autumn festivals you can still enjoy — all with convenient access by Shinkansen or limited express trains.
Takayama Autumn Festival (October 9–10, 2025)
Held in the mountain town of Takayama, the Takayama Autumn Festival is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful festivals. Ornate festival floats (yatai) line the streets, accompanied by traditional music. At night, lantern-lit processions create a magical and unforgettable atmosphere.
Access
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From Tokyo: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approx. 1.5 hrs), then Limited Express Hida to Takayama Station (approx. 2 hr 30 min).👉 Reserve your tickets here: Tokyo to Takayama
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From Nagoya: Direct Limited Express Hida to Takayama Station (approx. 2 hrs 30 min).
👉 Reserve your tickets here: Nagoya to Takayama
Official Website: Takayama Autumn Festival
Nikko Toshogu Autumn Grand Festival (October 16–17, 2025)
History lovers will enjoy the Nikko Toshogu Autumn Grand Festival. The highlight is the "Procession of 1,000 Samurai," a spectacular reenactment with participants dressed as warriors honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu. Against the backdrop of Nikko’s ornate shrines and autumn colors, it’s a breathtaking sight.
Access
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From Tokyo: Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station (approx. 50 min), then JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station (approx. 45 min).
👉 Reserve your tickets here: Tokyo to Nikko -
Or take a Tobu Limited Express directly from Shinjuku to Tobu-Nikko Station.
👉 Reserve your tickets here: Shinjuku to Tobu-Nikko
Official Website: Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival
Nagoya Festival (October 18–19, 2025)
The Nagoya Festival celebrates Japan’s "Three Heroes" — Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Spectacular parades and historical processions bring the streets of central Nagoya to life. It’s one of the largest and most energetic autumn events in the Chubu region.
Access
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From Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka: Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station. The festival venues are in the city center and easily accessible by subway or bus.
👉 Reserve your tickets here: Shinkansen tickets to/from Nagoya
Official Website: Nagoya Festival
Why Experience a Japanese Autumn Festival?
Beyond the colorful parades and traditional performances, festivals let you taste local foods, mingle with communities, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether as a day trip or part of a longer journey, these events transform your autumn travel into something truly special.
So if you’re visiting Japan this October, make sure to add at least one Autumn Festival in Japan to your itinerary! 🍂🎉
Traveling to Festivals by Shinkansen
With Shinkansen-ticket.com, you can book Shinkansen and limited express tickets online in English before your trip. Secure your seats, request luggage space, and travel stress-free to Japan’s top autumn events.
What is shinkansen-ticket.com?
Shinkansen-Ticket.com is a Japan-based travel agency specializing in booking Shinkansen and limited express train tickets—including high-demand routes that are often difficult to secure. With nearly a decade of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliable, flexible, and traveler-friendly service.
We provide both QR code-based tickets for easy station access, ideal for last-minute bookings, and physical paper tickets, which can be delivered to your home abroad, hotel, major post offices, or even a friend’s residence across Japan—perfect for carefully planned itineraries.
Our expertise in Japan’s rail system allows us to offer customized support with a deep understanding of routes, connections, and seating options—including oversized luggage seats, scenic views, and group arrangements.
Trusted by thousands of repeat customers and partnered with numerous hotels and travel agencies, we regularly assist in arranging train tickets for hotel guests and tour clients across Japan.
© 2025 Shinkansen-Ticket.com.
Seat guide
Reserved Seat (Ordinary Reserved Seat)
Your seat is reserved and secured when you book your tickets, allowing you to head to the station with peace of mind.
Think of it as "economy class" seating.
Green Reserved Seat
Enjoy better seats and free blankets. Popular among Japanese business people, executives, and those who prefer a comfortable travel experience.
Consider it "business class" seating.
GranClass
Known as the "First Class" of Shinkansen seats.
Available only on the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen lines, these seats offer airline-like amenities and meals (only on select trains).
They are the most expensive option.
Unreserved Seat
You can take any open seat in the unreserved cars on the departure date (no departure time will be indicated on your ticket).
This is the best option if cost is your priority and you are traveling during less crowded seasons or times.
Hana
The Local Explorer
As a licensed travel services manager with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I’ve spent my career helping international travelers discover the charm of Japan’s regions, seasons, and cultural events.
From lavender fields to autumn leaves, I love showcasing Japan’s natural beauty and local festivals—especially those hidden gems you won’t find in every guidebook. My goal is to inspire your next unforgettable journey.