Every October, the serene mountain town of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture transforms into a vibrant stage of color, sound, and cultural spectacle. The Takayama Autumn Festival 2025, also known locally as Hachiman Matsuri, will be held on October 9 and 10, offering travelers a rare chance to witness centuries-old Japanese tradition unfold against the backdrop of preserved Edo-era streets and majestic mountain scenery.
Celebrated as one of the top three most beautiful festivals in Japan—alongside Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and the Chichibu Night Festival—this grand event is a showcase of ornate craftsmanship, spiritual procession, and festive unity that dates back to the 17th century.
A Timeless Festival of Float Parades and Ancient Rituals
Centered around Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, the guardian shrine of northern Takayama, the festival is steeped in Shinto tradition. The shrine honors the deity Hachiman, protector of the area, and serves as the spiritual heart of the celebration.
The highlight of the festival is the procession of 11 yatai (festival floats), which are designated as Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. Each float, painstakingly handcrafted by local artisans, features elaborate wood carvings, gilded accents, lacquer finishes, and detailed metalwork, echoing the artistic finesse of the Edo period.
Adding to the enchantment are the karakuri ningyō—mechanical puppets mounted on some of the floats. Controlled with astonishing precision by puppeteers manipulating dozens of silk strings, these puppets perform mesmerizing routines. The Hoteitai float, for instance, delights the crowd with its puppets swinging on trapezes in coordinated movements, a demonstration of heritage craftmanship and performance art.
Festival Highlights Not to Miss
1. Goshinko Procession
Twice daily during the festival, the streets come alive with the Goshinko, a solemn parade featuring a mikoshi (portable shrine) that carries the deity of Sakurayama Hachimangu. Participants dressed in samurai-era attire, including kamishimo robes and gong performers (tokeiraku), escort the shrine through Takayama’s historic old town. This sacred rite is believed to cleanse and bless the town, and it offers a direct connection to the festival’s spiritual roots.
2. Yoimatsuri – The Evening Parade
On the night of October 9, the magic deepens during Yoimatsuri, or the Night Festival. The floats are illuminated with hundreds of paper lanterns, casting a warm golden glow as they glide through cobblestone streets. Accompanied by traditional festival music, the lantern-lit floats create a truly unforgettable sight—evoking a dreamlike ambiance that transports visitors back in time.
3. Local Food and Culture
In addition to the parades, visitors can indulge in Takayama’s local specialties like Hida beef skewers, miso ramen, and gohei mochi. The streets are lined with food stalls, souvenir vendors, and cultural exhibits, offering a well-rounded experience for all senses.
Travel Tips: Getting to Takayama
From Tokyo: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, then transfer to the JR Limited Express Hida bound for Takayama. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours.
From Takayama Station: The main festival area, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, is a scenic 20-minute walk from the station. Local buses and taxis are also available.
Where to Stay During the Festival
Accommodation during the Takayama Autumn Festival tends to fill up quickly, so advance booking is essential. For an immersive experience, consider staying at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), many of which offer tatami rooms, yukata robes, and authentic Japanese meals. Visitors can also find a variety of hot spring (onsen) resorts, guesthouses, and modern hotels.
Some recommended areas to stay:
- Sanmachi Suji District – Close to festival activities and historic architecture
- Hida Takayama Onsen Area – Relax in natural hot springs after a full day of festivities
- Shirakawa-go (a UNESCO site nearby) – Ideal for day trips before or after the festival
Why the Takayama Autumn Festival Is Worth the Trip
The Takayama Autumn Festival is not just a celebration—it’s a cultural immersion. It beautifully weaves spiritual significance, local craftsmanship, traditional performance, and community spirit into a multi-sensory experience.
What sets this festival apart is its authenticity. Unlike modern commercialized events, the Takayama Matsuri retains its community-led roots, with local residents preparing months in advance to participate. The result is a deeply heartfelt celebration that resonates with both locals and international visitors.
Set against the charming streets of Takayama’s old town, lined with merchant houses, sake breweries, and art galleries, the festival delivers not only a look into Japanese culture but also a journey into a world that feels timeless.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
