When is the 2025 Autumn Takayama Festival? Complete Guide to Schedule, Highlights, and Access - Japan Travel Sights

When is the 2025 Autumn Takayama Festival? Complete Guide to Schedule, Highlights, and Access

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As autumn deepens in Hida Takayama, the crisp air and colorful mountains signal the city’s most festive season of the year: the Autumn Takayama Festival (Hachiman Festival), held every October.

Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and counted among the Three Most Beautiful Festivals in Japan, the Autumn Takayama Festival captivates visitors with its ornate festival floats (yatai), intricate karakuri puppet performances, and the divine Goshinko procession.

By day, lavish floats decorate the streets; by night, hundreds of glowing lanterns transform the city into a dreamlike wonder during the evening festival.

In 2025, the Autumn Takayama Festival will be held on Thursday, October 9 and Friday, October 10.

It is as if scenes from a historical picture scroll unfold across the streets of Takayama.

“Which day should I go to see each event?”
“What about parking and access during the crowds?”
“What happens if it rains?”

This article provides everything you need to know—schedule, highlights, access, and FAQs—to enjoy the festival to the fullest.

Highlights and Schedule

■ Yatai Hikisoroe (Float Line-Up)

Date & Time:

• Oct. 9 (Thu) 9:00–17:00
• Oct. 10 (Fri) 9:00–16:00
  Location: Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine approach & grounds

The Float Line-Up is one of the most iconic features of the Autumn Takayama Festival. Ten lavishly decorated floats gather, resembling priceless art exhibits. Lacquered finishes, gold leaf details, elaborate wood carvings, and embroidered drapes showcase the finest craftsmanship.

Visitors can get up close to admire the details, making it a perfect photo opportunity. This year, 10 floats will be displayed, as the Gyoshintai float is under repair.

■ Karakuri Hono (Puppet Performance)

Date & Time:

• Oct. 9 (Thu) 12:00 / 14:00
• Oct. 10 (Fri) 11:00 / 13:00
  Location: Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine grounds

The karakuri puppet performance on the Hotei float is a festival highlight. With elaborate mechanisms, the puppets dance and move as if alive, a tradition passed down since the Edo period.

Due to heavy crowds, those with health concerns may prefer the official YouTube live stream, though the live performance is truly breathtaking.

■ Goshinko (Divine Procession)

Date & Time:

• Oct. 9 (Thu) 13:20–15:30
• Oct. 10 (Fri) Morning & Afternoon sessions

The Goshinko procession sees the deity of Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine paraded through the town. Hundreds of participants in traditional attire, accompanied by gagaku court music, create a majestic scene straight out of history.

The golden mikoshi, sacred horses, and children’s procession embody deep faith and local pride. Please refrain from crossing or following the procession for safety.

■ Yoimatsuri (Evening Festival)

Date & Time: Oct. 9 (Thu) 18:15–20:30
Location: From Oshinmachi to Shimoichinomachi area

The festival culminates with Yoimatsuri. As night falls, floats illuminated with countless lanterns parade through the streets, casting a magical glow.

Lantern light flickers against lacquered floats, shadows sway, and traditional music fills the air—a mystical atmosphere completely different from the daytime.

Access & Parking Information

• By Car: Free shuttle buses run from the Takumigaoka temporary parking lot (15–20 minutes). Municipal and private parking lots are available, but choose those outside traffic restriction zones.
• By Bus: A dedicated bus-only parking area (Shinko Honbu) is provided. Visitors disembark at Takayama Civic Culture Center and walk or take a shuttle bus to the venue.

Checklist for First-Time Visitors

What to Bring:

• Foldable umbrella/raincoat (in case of rain, some events are canceled or scaled down)
• Hat, sunscreen, and drinks (it can be hot during the day)
• Jacket or shawl (nights can be chilly)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera or smartphone (perfect for night shots of Yoimatsuri)

Clothing Tips:

• Light clothing for the day; layers for morning and evening
• Waterproof shoes recommended in case of rain

Important Notes:

• The festival is extremely crowded; strollers and bicycles are not practical
• Drone photography is strictly prohibited
• Do not touch floats or obstruct processions
• Families and wheelchair users should choose less crowded viewing spots for safety

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q. What if it rains?
A. The festival is generally held rain or shine, but events may be scaled down or canceled. No postponements.

• Float Line-Up → floats displayed in storage houses only
• Puppet Performance → moved indoors to Sakurayama Nikko-kan
• Goshinko → reduced scale or canceled
• Evening Festival → no lantern parade, floats displayed only

Q. Are there reserved seats?
A. No. The festival has no designated or paid seating—viewing is standing only. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

Q. Is it suitable for children or wheelchair users?
A. Yes, but due to heavy crowds, extra caution is required. Families should plan rest spots in advance; wheelchair users may prefer watching from less crowded areas or the official live stream.

Summary

The Autumn Takayama Festival, along with its spring counterpart, is one of Japan’s Three Most Beautiful Festivals.

With resplendent floats, the majestic Goshinko procession, and the dreamlike Yoimatsuri, the festival showcases the very essence of Takayama’s autumn charm.

By day, admire masterful craftsmanship; by night, immerse yourself in the ethereal glow of lantern-lit streets. This dual experience explains why travelers from around the world flock here.

However, the festival area is extremely crowded. Plan your schedule, access, and accommodation in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

This year, immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of Takayama’s Autumn Festival—it’s bound to be an unforgettable journey.