Hikone Festival

An autumn festival held in Takeo, Saga Prefecture, centered on the onsen (hot spring) town. The entire hot spring district is enveloped in festive atmosphere, showcasing local food culture and performing arts. Represents the fusion of onsen and festival culture. Though small, it demonstrates strong community cohesion.

Held in January at Isobe Shrine in Yasu, Shiga, this winter festival features nude boys performing sumo rituals rooted in ancient strength contests for bountiful harvests. With over 600 years of history, it embodies primitive new-year rites where young strength is gathered to pray for the year's prosperity.

Traditional festival held in September in Kishiwada, Osaka. Features giant floats (danjiri) weighing over 3 tons racing through town. With over 400 years of history, it is nationally famous for its spectacular procession. Tests the courage of young participants.

A fire festival held in October in the Kurama area of Kyoto City. Young people parade with torches, illuminating the night sky with brilliant crimson flames. With over 1000 years of history, it is a signature autumn festival of Kyoto. The tradition of revering fire's purifying power continues to the present day.

An autumn festival held in October in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture. Features elaborate processions and performances influenced by East Asian traditions. Continuing since the Edo period, it reflects the region's history of foreign trade at Dejima. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Autumn festival of Suwa Shrine held every October in Nagasaki. Characterized by exotic dances and parades reflecting Edo-period trade culture with China and Holland. Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, this roughly 400-year-old festival is Nagasaki's most representative cultural celebration.