One of the first images that spring to mind when we think about exotic trips is Japanese landscapes, while the country’s spectacular autumn scenery is also a common image in the minds of many people.
Japan is known as an emerging country for some of the leading trends in technology, fashion and beauty, some of which might seem quite eccentric to us. However, moving away from the cliche, Japanese culture shows the utmost respect for its culture and history and this is something that is still seen today at the many festivals held all over the country. In this article, we invite you to discover the enigmatic country that is Japan and its many colours through its autumn festivals.
Momiji
The Momiji or Kooyoo marks the start of autumn in Japan. This celebration takes places on the second Sunday in November when locals visit the most popular parks to admire the change in the colour of the leaves on the Japanese maple trees as they change from a deep green colour to red or ochre orange.The Momiji festival is held in several places all over Japan, although the most well-known is in Arashiyama in Kyoto, where period decorated boats cruise down the Oi River close to Togetsukyo Bridge. Performers dressed in Heian period attire reenact the noble cruise down the river, while musician play the koto and the shakuhachi (bamboo flute) and dancers interpret traditional dances.
Kurama No Hi Matsuri
The Kurama Fire Festival takes place on October 22nd in the small town of Kurama, north of the city of Kyoto.
One of the main attractions is the procession to worship the Yuki Shrine, as it shows the path the Yuki deity followed, and you’ll also have the chance to discover the temple constructed in its name.
The men of the families in the town carry the large taimatsu (pine torches) to light up the path that finishes at the entrance to the temple and also as a sign of respect for their deity.
Takayama Matsuri
Takayama Matsuri takes place each year on October 9th and 10th in Takayama.
It’s centred on the Shinto, Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine and is celebrated with decorated ornate Yatai floats, puppets and parades.
During the two days of festivities, the city is filled with colours, music, and tourists, and considered one of the most beautiful festivals in Japan.
Karatsu Kunchi
The festival begins in Karatsu on the evening of November 2nd and finishes on the 4th, the main attraction during the festival is the carrying of its deity to Nishinohama beach where it’s said the deity was born. This act is seen as a symbol of respect and a petition for the city to continue to prosper.
Throughout the celebration, you’ll witness different wooden floats in all shapes and sizes, decorated in bright colours, which are another of the main attractions during the party.
Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri
This elegant festival is held from December 15-18 in the city of Nara and mainly focuses on celebrating the city’s past through music, performance arts, and the people representing characters from the city’s history. The 17th of December is perhaps the most important day of the celebration with songs and dances devoted to the Kami deities.
You can’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Japanese colours this autumn and experience the culture of one of the world’s most enigmatic countries.
