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Sjaak Kempe from Groningen, The Netherlands, CC BY 2.0
UPCOMINGFREE ENTRYMatsuri· Annual
Takayama Autumn Matsuri
高山祭秋の例大祭
Gifu · Chubu
Japan's most beautiful festival in a beautifully preserved Edo town — 11 mechanical puppet-filled yatai floats paraded by 500 lantern carriers at night against Hida Mountain autumn foliage.
- Dates
- October 9–10Dates follow the event's usual annual pattern — confirm with the organizer before you travel.
- Location
- Gifu · Chubu
- Nearest station
- Takayama Station · 20 min walk
- Crowd level
- National attendance
- Entry
- Free entry
- Official site
- hidahachimangu.jp
Happens every year
What to expect
The festival features intricately carved yatai floats adorned with mechanical puppets, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as they move through the historic streets. The warm glow of 500 lanterns illuminates the vibrant autumn colors of the Hida Mountains.
Best viewing tips
For the best view, position yourself along the main street near the Nakabashi Bridge. Arrive early in the evening to witness the lantern-lit procession as it winds through the town's Edo-period architecture.
How to get there
From Nagoya Station · ~2h 17m by car
Your turn
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