Japanese Autumn Festivals Every Family Should Know
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🍁 Japanese Autumn Festivals Every Family Should Know
Autumn in Japan is a season of crisp air, vibrant foliage, and joyful celebrations. Families gather to enjoy centuries-old traditions filled with food, culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan or simply want to bring a little Japanese autumn into your home, these festivals are worth knowing.
1. Tsukimi (Moon Viewing Festival) 🌕
・When: September (around the full moon)
・What it celebrates: A harvest festival dedicated to the beauty of the autumn moon. Families enjoy dango (rice dumplings), seasonal fruits, and admire the full moon together.
・Fun for families: Kids can help decorate with pampas grass and set up a little moon-viewing table at home. Adding touches of moon and rabbit motifs or serving treats on elegant trays brings the festival spirit indoors.
2. Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3 Festival) 👘
・When: November 15
・What it celebrates: A rite of passage for children aged 3, 5, and 7, where families visit shrines to pray for health and happiness.
・Fun for families: Children wear kimono and enjoy chitose-ame (thousand-year candy) in beautifully decorated bags. Families overseas can join the spirit of the season by adding seasonal home décor that captures the festive atmosphere.
3. Autumn Matsuri (Local Harvest Festivals) 🎶
・When: September–November
・What it celebrates: Local shrines hold parades, dances, and food stalls to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.
・Fun for families: Kids love the colorful floats, taiko drumming, and festive lanterns. You can recreate the excitement at home with lantern-inspired home décor and little decorative touches to enjoy together.
4. Obon (Observed in Autumn in Some Regions) 🏮
・When: August–September depending on the region
・What it celebrates: A time to honor ancestors through dances, lanterns, and family gatherings.
・Fun for families: Children often join Bon Odori dances and light lanterns. At home, glowing lantern-style accents bring warmth and make the evening feel magical.
🍂 Celebrate Japanese Autumn at Home
Even if you’re not in Japan, you can:
・Host a moon-viewing night with family.
・Create a seasonal corner in your living room with Japanese-inspired décor.
・Add small festival-inspired decorative touches to bring the joy of the season indoors.
✨ Looking for ways to bring Japanese autumn into your home? Explore our home décor collection to add seasonal charm while celebrating these beautiful traditions.