FUJISAKI HACHIMANGU AUTUMN FESTIVAL KUMAMOTO PREFECTURAL JAPAN (SEPTEMBER)
THINGS TO DO IN KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE KHUSYU JAPAN AND WHAT YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT KUMAMOTO
In Kumamoto Prefecture, September is packed with local cultural events and festivals. Here are a few highlights from Kumamoto and nearby areas:
Kumamoto Castle Autumn Festival (late September) – Held in the grounds of Kumamoto Castle, this festival celebrates local culture with traditional music, performances, and food stalls, all set against the backdrop of the historic castle.
Kangensai Festival at Suizenji Jojuen Garden – This traditional festival features performances of ancient court music and offers visitors a chance to experience the serene beauty of Suizenji Garden in Kumamoto during the autumn season.
Additionally, across Japan in September, you can experience:
Owara Kaze no Bon in Toyama (Sept 1-3): a haunting Bon Odori dance festival.
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka (Sept 14-15): a lively float-pulling festival.
These festivals offer a rich glimpse into Japan’s cultural tapestry and are perfect for both locals and tourists looking to dive into the local traditions.
FESTIVAL IN KUMAMOTO PREFECTURAL
Kumamoto Prefecture hosts several prominent festivals, reflecting its rich history and culture. Some of the most significant ones include:
Fujisaki Hachimangu Autumn Festival (September) – This is one of the largest festivals in Kumamoto, featuring a parade of elaborately decorated horses and performers dressed in traditional attire. The festival is rooted in centuries-old traditions and is known for its vibrant “Zuibyo” (warrior) procession.
Yamaga Lantern Festival (mid-August, but with events extending into September) – Held in the nearby city of Yamaga, this festival features women dancing gracefully with gold lanterns on their heads, illuminated in a beautiful night-time procession.
Hinokuni Matsuri (August-September) – This is a celebration of Kumamoto’s culture and traditions, featuring parades, traditional dances like the “Otemoyan” dance, and fireworks.
Kangensai Festival at Suizenji Jojuen Garden (September) – A quieter, more traditional festival, it celebrates ancient court music performances in the scenic surroundings of the garden.