Blog

#105

What to Look Forward to : September in Japan

by Rachel Anne

September marks a beautiful turning point in Japan. The hot summer days begin to cool down, and the early signs of autumn slowly appear. It’s a season that blends tradition, celebration, and reflection, making it one of the most interesting months of the year to experience.

Here are some of the highlights to look forward to this September.

Tsukimi (Moon Viewing Festival)

A beloved tradition of admiring the harvest moon while enjoying seasonal treats like tsukimi dango and limited-time “moon-viewing” dishes.

Image Reference : https://matcha-jp.com/en/2695

Autumn Festivals (Aki Matsuri)

Local shrines and towns come alive with vibrant parades, food stalls, taiko drums, and performances, offering a warm sense of community.

Image Reference : https://www.japan.travel/en/experiences-in-japan/880

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka

One of Japan’s most thrilling festivals, where giant wooden floats are pulled at top speed through narrow streets.

Image Reference : https://blog.gaijinpot.com/festivals-of-japan-kishiwada-danjiri-matsuri-in-osaka

Kangetsu no Utage in Kyoto

A more serene celebration under the moonlight, with music, poetry, and elegance.

Image Reference : https://enjoy-osaka-kyoto-kobe.com/article/a/kyoto_kangetsusai

Respect for the Aged Day (Keirō no Hi)

A national holiday dedicated to honoring elders, reminding us of the importance of gratitude and family.

Image Reference : https://hh-japaneeds.com/keiro-no-hi

From the lively energy of street festivals to the quiet beauty of moonlit nights, September in Japan offers a perfect balance of excitement and reflection. It’s a time when tradition and modern life come together, creating experiences that are both festive and meaningful.

Stay tuned for our next blog—we’ll dive deeper into each of these festivals, their history, and the best places to visit if you want to experience them for yourself!

Posted : 05 September 2025