JAPANESE FESTIVALS & SEASONAL EVENTS
For 2027, we list as basic dates the festivals whose fixed annual dates can be confirmed on their official websites. Individual events, viewing seats and traffic restrictions may not have been announced yet, so be sure to check the official information. For 2026, we list event information that has been officially announced.
3 festivals, 1 fireworks festivals · as of 2026-10-11 Japan time
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FestivalShiga · 2026
Thirteen hikiyama floats gather in front of Tenson Shrine and set off, parading through the town of Otsu to festival music and performing karakuri puppet shows at various points. The Yoimiya eve runs from the evening of the 10th until 21:00 and the main festival from 9:00 to around 17:30 on the 11th; viewing is free.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsFestivalShiga · 2026
The 29th autumn festival lights about 4,000 lanterns along the Hachimanbori Canal and the old castle town of Omihachiman. The bamboo tower light-up runs from 17:00 to 21:00, and there are also hands-on activities such as making bamboo lanterns.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsFestivalShiga · 2026
Five zuiki (taro-stalk) portable shrines are offered at Mikami Shrine in Yasu City. Held every year on the second Monday of October, it is designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Photo: Wikimedia CommonsFIREWORKS
FireworksShiga · 2026
Held off Otsu Port as the 40th anniversary festival. Combining fireworks, lasers, music and drones, 12,000 shells lit up the night over Lake Biwa. Information for 2027 will be updated after the official announcement.
Photo: Shiga PrefectureColoured days have listed dates that match your filters. This does not guarantee that an event takes place on the day.
1 listed event date(s)
Shiga · Ongoing
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