November 2025: Five Great Events You Need to Check Out!

If you think Japan’s festivals only shine in summer, think again! November brings the cool, refreshing air of autumn, along with numerous exciting events that range from traditional celebrations to art and sports festivals. So why not dive into the joyful spirit of autumn, filled with laughter and color? Let’s explore the must-see events happening across Japan in November 2025!

Umekoji Handicrafts Market

In Kyoto, the Umekoji Handicrafts Market, situated in Umekoji Park, is a cherished tradition for both locals and visitors. It began as a celebration of handmade art and a way to support local artists. Each stall is filled with creativity and care. By November 2025, the market will once again welcome visitors with its warm and colorful charm.

Held on the first Saturday of every month, except January and May, the market features around 300 stalls bursting with handmade treasures. You can discover pottery, soft textiles, wooden crafts, and freshly made sweet treats by local bakers.

Additionally, what makes this market so special is its lively spirit and the chance to meet the artists themselves. Children can enjoy the bright displays, while adults find one-of-a-kind souvenirs that capture the city’s gentle beauty.

Suminoe Art Beat

Once a bustling shipyard, the Creative Center Osaka in Kitakagaya now transforms into a vibrant art space each year for Suminoe Art Beat. This joyful event originated as a way to celebrate Osaka’s creative spirit and share it with the entire community. In November 2025, the event will take place on the 9th from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Visitors can enjoy amazing art exhibits, from giant sculptures to playful paintings by young artists. The star of the festival is the famous nine-meter-tall rubber duck by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman, floating proudly as a symbol of happiness and imagination. There are also various pop-up shops, tasty street food, and craft stalls that create a cheerful atmosphere.

Moreover, families can explore the nearby Kitakagaya Park, watch live performances, or join the “Minna no Uen” market to taste local treats and fresh produce. Every corner offers something delightful, whether it’s music, theater, or handmade art.

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Shinno Festival

The Shinno Festival is a joyful event for those seeking good health and happiness. It takes place each year at Sukunahikona Shrine, a small yet sacred site in Osaka’s Doshomachi district, also known as “Medicine Town.” The festival honors two gods of medicine: Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto from Japan and Shinno, also called the “Divine Farmer”, from China. Both are believed to protect people from sickness and guide those in the art of healing.

The event is held over two days in November, on the 22nd and 23rd. It began in the early 19th century, when an epidemic hit Osaka. People gave out paper tiger charms called Hariko-no-Tora to ward off illness. Over time, these tiger amulets became a cherished symbol of safety and strength. They offer hope to those who wear them.

During the festival, you can pray for health, buy lucky tigers, and enjoy Osaka’s tasty snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake). The cool autumn air, golden ginkgo leaves, and soft lantern lights combine to create a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Although the shrine is small, its atmosphere is filled with life and kindness.

Fukuoka November Grand Sumo Tournament

Sumo is Japan’s national sport and one of its oldest traditions, originating from ancient rituals that honored the gods. Over many centuries, it has grown into a thrilling sport marked by respect, strength, and ceremony. Every year, six Grand Sumo Tournaments are held across Japan, where mighty wrestlers battle for pride and promotion. The Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament is the final and most-awaited event of the year. 

This year’s tournament will be held from November 9 to 23, 2025, at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center, just a short walk from Hakata Station. Since its beginning in 1957, this grand event has drawn huge crowds who cheer for their favorite rikishi (sumo wrestlers). It’s a time when the city of Fukuoka comes alive, from the opening ceremony to the tense final matches.

Each day, powerful wrestlers step into the dohyō (sumo wrestling ring), where strength meets tradition. Before the tournament, the rankings are announced on October 27, 2025, adding extra excitement as everyone waits to see who will rise to the top.

Outside the arena, you might spot wrestlers walking through the city in their elegant yukata robes, visiting local shops or bathhouses. With its blend of tradition and energy, the November Grand Sumo Tournament offers a perfect ending to Japan’s sumo season.

Japan Umeshu Festa

This festival is designed for adults who appreciate the rich flavors of Japanese spirits. The Japan Umeshu Festa is a joyful event that celebrates umeshu, a sweet and fruity plum wine made by soaking ume plums in sake or shochu. It began as a way to honor Japan’s long tradition of plum brewing and to share its culture with people from across the country.

In late November 2025, the Japan Umeshu Festa will occur at the beautiful Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto’s Kamigyo Ward. This shrine is renowned for its ancient plum trees and elegant garden, making it the perfect place to celebrate plum wine. Visitors will find over one hundred varieties of umeshu from all around Japan, each with its own unique taste and aroma.

During the event, guests can try rare and award-winning umeshu, discover creative blends with brandy or citrus, and even taste umeshu ice cream or umeshu beer. Especially, you use “plum coins” here to sample many kinds and bring home your favorite bottles as souvenirs. Stylish cups, tote bags, and other limited-edition items will also be available for collectors.

Why should I join these events in November 2025?

As autumn deepens, November 2025 invites you to experience Japan in its most peaceful and colorful form. Beyond the falling leaves, this season celebrates creativity, community, and quiet joy. Each festival, from handmade crafts to sumo matches, offers a window into Japan’s living traditions.

Participating in these events is not only about sightseeing, but also about feeling connected to local stories and the people who keep them alive. You can discover art, taste regional flavors, and share moments of happiness with others. So, this autumn, where would your heart lead you first? Share your thoughts in the comments.