Menus and labels are in English. Event information is machine-translated from Japanese sources, and place details (names, descriptions, opening hours) are shown in Japanese.
Events in Higashimatsuyama in October 2027
Festivals, workshops, exhibitions and other events in Higashimatsuyama in October, in date order. You can also browse them on the map and calendar.
Events in October 2027 (1 event)
- mid-October (usually)
Kamikimoto Lion Dance
This historic traditional performing art is dedicated to ward off bad luck and pray for bountiful harvests. Visitors can enjoy dynamic performances, including bojutsu (stick fighting techniques) performed prior to the lion dance, and the impressive Kaido-kudari procession carrying massive manto lanterns.
Events held in October 2026 (for reference, 79 events)
Many events are held around the same time every year, so use these to plan ahead. Check the official websites for this year's dates.
- 2026Thu, Oct 1
The Story of the Phases of the Moon
- 2026Sat, Oct 3+3 more dates
Storytime at Takasaka Library
An event aimed at infants, toddlers, and elementary school students. In addition to picture book readings, attendees can enjoy traditional children's songs and fingerplays. Spend a fun time with your child.
- 2026Sat, Oct 3+3 more dates
Forest Classroom Craft Workshop
A craft workshop where participants can enjoy seasonal DIY crafting. Color freely to create your own original Halloween button badge. An event you can casually join without prior reservation.
- 2026Sat, Oct 3 – Sun, Oct 4+5 more dates
Animal Stage Autumn 2026
Animals from the Petting Corner appear on the outdoor stage to showcase the skills and results cultivated through daily training. Enjoy lively, charming animal performances up close.
- 2026Sun, Oct 4
Beginner's Peony Grafting Experience
An event where you can experience grafting peony branches onto Chinese peony roots. Beginners can participate with peace of mind as specialized staff provide detailed guidance on cultivation methods. Feel free to join wearing clothes suitable for working.
- 2026Sun, Oct 4
Peonywalk Higashimatsuyama Dance School Dance Show
A dance show by a dance school held at Peony Court. It is an event that is free to watch and easy to attend, offering a chance to enjoy vibrant performances while shopping.
- 2026Sun, Oct 4
Cowshed Keeper Talk
A guided event at the cowshed where zookeepers talk about cattle. The keepers provide an easy-to-understand introduction to behind-the-scenes zoo life and surprising facts about the animals that are rarely known.
- 2026Tue, Oct 6
Social Education Lecture: Stories of Japanese Sweets and Japanese Culture
- 2026Tue, Oct 6
Social Education Lecture: History of Yakyu Inari Shrine and Print Culture (Part 2)
- 2026Tue, Oct 6 – Mon, Oct 12
Painting Club 'Rakugakai' 10th Art Exhibition
The commemorative 10th art exhibition by the painting club "Rakugakai." Held in the library's exhibition room, the display features a variety of masterworks created with care by its members.
- 2026Wed, Oct 7+1 more date
City Library Storytime for Toddlers
An event aimed at infants, toddlers, and their guardians. Held in the library's children's room, it features picture book read-alouds as well as traditional nursery rhyme games for parents and children to enjoy together.
- 2026Sat, Oct 10
Higashimatsuyama Peony Garden: Community Park Yoga
An open yoga session on the lawn square of Higashimatsuyama Peony Garden for both children and adults. Enjoy a refreshing moment to revitalize mind and body surrounded by rich nature.
- 2026Sat, Oct 10 – Sun, Oct 11
Matsuyama Civic Activity Center Bonsai and Wild Grass Exhibition
A bonsai and wild plant exhibition held at Matsuyama Civic Activity Center. Visitors can appreciate a wide variety of charming plants cultivated with care.
- 2026Sat, Oct 10+1 more date
City Library Storytime
A fun storytelling event for toddlers and elementary school children. Held in the library's children's room, parents and children can enjoy picture book readings and kamishibai paper plays.
- 2026Sun, Oct 11
City Library Movie Screening: The Taste of Things
A movie screening held at the library's audiovisual hall. The French film "The Taste of Things" (French: La passion de Dodin Bouffant) will be screened. Capacity is limited to the first 100 people.
- 2026Sun, Oct 11
Hiki Symphony Orchestra 21st Regular Concert
A regular concert by the Hiki Symphony Orchestra. Masterpieces such as Rossini's "The Thieving Magpie" and "William Tell," as well as Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4 "Italian," will resonate throughout the hall.
- 2026Sun, Oct 11
Butter-Making Experience
Try making butter by shaking a cup of fresh cream, and enjoy a tasting afterward. This is a fun, hands-on event where participants can learn how butter is made. Participation tickets will be sold at the information desk from park opening time.
- 2026Sun, Oct 11
Silpia Higashimatsuyama: Halloween Pot Making
A workshop to create home decorations by filling pumpkin pots with sweets and decorative items. Fairground games are also offered at the venue, allowing families to enjoy filling out questionnaires and touring model homes together.
- 2026Mon, Oct 12
Laparfait Comedy and Impersonation Live
The popular comedy duo "Laparfait" takes the stage to perform live impersonations. A stage event to laugh your heart out and enjoy.
- 2026Mon, Oct 12
Silpia Higashimatsuyama Pickleball Class
A beginner-friendly lesson in pickleball, a trending sport that is easy to pick up using paddles and a ball. Inflatable play equipment for children will also be available at the venue, allowing families to enjoy exercising together.
- 2026Tue, Oct 13 – Sun, Oct 18
Fuyo no Kai Painting Exhibition
A painting exhibition held at the municipal library, displaying a variety of works including watercolors, acrylic paintings, and pastels. Visitors can take their time to appreciate the members' masterpieces.
- 2026Tue, Oct 13 – Sun, Oct 18
Fuyo no Kai 13th Exhibition
The 13th exhibition of works by Fuyo no Kai. Held in the library's exhibition room, visitors can view works reflecting the artistic sensibility and daily creative efforts of its members.
- 2026Tue, Oct 13 – Sun, Oct 18
NSP 4th Photo Exhibition
Five photography enthusiasts showcase landscape photographs captured through their individual perspectives throughout the year. Admission is free, offering an opportunity to leisurely enjoy a diverse selection of distinctive works.
- 2026Wed, Oct 14
City Library Mini Reading Session
A reading event for adults held in the library's training room. In a calm setting, attendees can sit back and listen to beautiful readings of literary works.
- 2026Wed, Oct 14+2 more dates
Monthly Citizens' Walking (Nomoto Community Activity Center)
A walking event held to promote health and foster community connections. Participants walk about 5 to 8 km while enjoying the scenery around the Nomoto district. Registering a passport allows you to aim for completion prizes, making it an easy and fun way to stay healthy.
- 2026Thu, Oct 15
Special Unveiling of the Wooden Seated Amida Nyorai Statue at Tokakuin Temple
The Wooden Seated Amida Nyorai Statue, preserved as a temple treasure and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, will be specially put on public display. Don't miss this rare opportunity, held only once a year, to closely view this historic and revered Buddhist statue.
- 2026Sat, Oct 17
Goudo Shishimai Lion Dance
The Goudo Shishimai Lion Dance, a designated cultural property of Higashimatsuyama City, will be performed publicly at Goudo Shrine. This is a chance to watch the powerful traditional sacred dance up close on site. No parking is available.
- 2026Sat, Oct 17
Nature Walk: Farmland Creatures and Autumn Migration
A nature observation walk focusing on autumn migratory birds while carefully observing creatures such as insects and plants found in farmland. Enjoy seasonal nature with binoculars and magnifying glasses in hand.
- 2026Sat, Oct 17
Higashimatsuyama City Disaster Prevention Fair (Comprehensive Disaster Drill)
A comprehensive disaster prevention drill where you can enjoy learning practical knowledge for disasters, including earthquake simulations, water discharge drills, and AED first aid. The event features numerous activities for families to enjoy, such as corporate disaster prevention product exhibitions, a stamp rally, disaster prevention bingo, and Self-Defense Forces curry.
- 2026Sat, Oct 17
Door to Classics Vol. 24
An approximately one-hour performance where you can casually enjoy classical music. Listen to the beautiful ensemble tones of a clarinetist with ties to the local area and a young pianist in the hall.
- 2026Sat, Oct 17
Higashimatsuyama Special Needs School Cultural Festival (Matsubokkuri Festival)
A cultural festival prepared by the students will be held. Enjoy events where each school division demonstrates the results of their practice to bring energy to the entire school, including elaborate stage performances by the junior high school department.
- 2026Sun, Jul 26+1 more date
Shimogarako Lion Dance
The traditional designated cultural property 'Shimogarako Lion Dance' is presented at Karako Shrine. View the powerful dance that has been passed down through generations in the local area. Times may vary slightly, and there is no parking.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Lion Dance of Uenomoto
The Uenomoto Lion Dance, a registered designated cultural property, will be performed at Uenomoto Hachiman Shrine. Visitors can watch this traditional performing art dance handed down from ancient times. Please note that there is no parking available.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Higashimatsuyama Walking Club October Regular Walk: Ogose Line Series
A regular walk covering 10 km from Enmeiji Temple to Sakado Station while viewing rivers and biotopes. Non-members are welcome to join and enjoy an autumn stroll while connecting with nature.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Melodies of Famous Songs on Guitar
A guitar concert held at the Matsuyama Civic Activity Center. Relax and enjoy a variety of famous songs performed with the gentle tones of the guitar.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
City Library Film Screening: School Days with a Pig
A screening event to enjoy a movie in the library's audiovisual hall. The Japanese film "School Days with a Pig" will be shown. Limited to the first 100 participants.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Bilingual Storytime
A reading session in English and Japanese hosted by a picture book author and translator. Parents and children can enjoy the world of picture books while feeling the rhythm of the English language.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Hiroatsu Takata Exhibition Flute Mini-Concert
A mini-concert on flute held in connection with the Hiroatsu Takata Exhibition. Enjoy the refreshing sounds of young artists free of charge. Admission is by advance registration on a first-come, first-served basis with a capacity of 100 people.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Vietnam Ensemble Charity Concert 2026
A charity concert held to support children affected by Agent Orange. Enjoy an engaging performance of music and dance presented by the Bong Sen National Dance and Music Troupe from Ho Chi Minh City.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Online Guided Tour: Live Guide from Australia
An online tour connecting live with Caversham Wildlife Park in Western Australia. Enjoy discovering the charm of Australian animals while listening to live commentary from a local tour guide.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18
Nature Guide Special: Waterside Wildlife Observation
An observation session led by an expert from Saitama Aquarium to learn about aquatic insects living in the park. Participants can observe familiar waterside creatures together up close and deepen their understanding of their ecology.
- 2026Sun, Oct 18+2 more dates
Pottery Workshop at Takasaka Kyuryo Community Activity Center
A pottery workshop for anyone interested in ceramics. Create your own unique pottery work while receiving guidance and advice.
- 2026Tue, Oct 20
12th Riverside Cup Autumn Tournament
A ground golf tournament held at an open riverside park surrounded by greenery. Competitors will play across four courses totaling 32 holes. Participation prizes and awards will also be presented.
- 2026Tue, Oct 20 – Sun, Oct 25
Saitama Yomiuri Photo Club Higashimatsuyama Branch Photo Exhibition
A photography exhibition presented by the Higashimatsuyama Branch of the Saitama Yomiuri Photo Club. In the library's exhibition room, visitors can admire a collection of expressive photographs captured by members.
- 2026Tue, Oct 20+2 more dates
Karako District Gymnasium Sports Experience Day
A sports trial event held at Karako District Gymnasium. Beginners and people of all generations can casually enjoy rally-oriented ping pong, boccia, Molkky, and other activities.
- 2026Thu, Oct 22
Succulent Arrangement Workshop
A hands-on workshop to create a succulent arrangement using upcycled cans. Learn how to grow and care for succulents while creating your own original piece. Suitable for beginners.
- 2026Thu, Oct 22
Higashimatsuyama City Agriculture and Forestry Park Succulent Potted Arrangement Workshop
A hands-on workshop to choose your favorite succulents and create an original potted arrangement. Beginners can easily participate and learn tips for beautiful planting and care.
- 2026Fri, Oct 23
Autumn Chestnuts: Moonlit Beer Terrace
Enjoy autumn flavors in a standing-bar style, featuring limited-edition craft beer brewed with chestnuts from Higashimatsuyama City, roasted chestnuts, and roasted sweet potatoes. The event also features art exhibitions with sales and a lottery with no losing tickets to win quokka merchandise.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24
Lecture on the Sculptures of Hiroatsu Takata
A lecture to learn how to appreciate the sculptures of Hiroatsu Takata. The speaker will explain the charm of sculpture in an easy-to-understand way, including a demonstration of clay modeling. Advance registration is required to participate.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24
The 63rd Chorus Evening
A concert featuring multiple choral groups, including the Higashimatsuyama Boys and Girls Chorus. Admission is free, allowing anyone to casually come and enjoy the beautiful vocal harmonies.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24
Danjuro Inari Festival
A festival will be held at Danjuro Inari Shrine, known as the guardian deity of performing arts improvement and business prosperity. A limited quantity of special goshuin paper will also be distributed on the day.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24 – Sun, Oct 25
Takasaka District Cultural Festival
A cultural festival where groups active at the Civic Activity Center showcase the results of their everyday activities. Visitors can enjoy a diverse exhibition of works as well as stage performances by local clubs.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24 – Sun, Oct 25
Nomoto District Cultural Festival
An event where local clubs in the Nomoto district showcase their regular activity achievements. A wide variety of artwork will be exhibited, alongside stage performances including taishogoto (Japanese harp) and various dances. A cafe corner and tea ceremony will be available, as well as sales of pork miso soup and red bean rice.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24 – Sun, Oct 25
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Collaboration Cafe ufotable Cafe TO GO2
A collaboration food truck for the popular TV anime "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba" opens at Peony Walk Higashimatsuyama. Enjoy drinks after placing your order at the special venue. Numbered entry tickets may be distributed during crowded times.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24 – Sun, Oct 25
Demon Slayer Collaboration Cafe
A collaboration food truck for the popular TV anime "Demon Slayer" will appear for two days only. Order drinks at the special venue and pick them up at the food truck to enjoy.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24 – Sun, Oct 25
Saitama Children's Zoo Australia Fair 2026
An event where you can fully enjoy Australian animals and culture. Features a wide variety of programs, including traditional hand art workshops, mini live performances on the indigenous didgeridoo instrument, character greetings, and merchandise sales.
- 2026Sat, Oct 24+5 more dates
Municipal Agriculture and Forestry Park: Agri-Park Rangers!
A multi-session experiential program for elementary and junior high school students to enjoy nature, agriculture, and fundamental food experiences through farm produce in the park. In addition to regular activities, an overnight camp will be held in spring, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in rich nature.
- 2026Sun, Oct 25
The 22nd Kirameki Citizen University Campus Festival
A campus festival planned and operated by students. Features stage performances including dance, chorus, and instrumental music, as well as art exhibitions and English picture book storytelling. A variety of offerings will be available, including food trucks, a cafe corner, and an agricultural produce bazaar.
- 2026Sun, Oct 25
Children's Hands-on Class: Sweet Potato Harvesting Experience
This hands-on workshop for children features sweet potato harvesting and animal feeding. Participants can roast their freshly harvested sweet potatoes on the spot to enjoy, experiencing agriculture and interacting with animals.
- 2026Sun, Oct 25
Children's Hands-on Class: Sweet Potato Harvesting Experience
A hands-on event for elementary and junior high school students and their guardians. In addition to harvesting seasonal sweet potatoes and tasting roasted sweet potatoes, participants can enjoy caring for cute goats.
- 2026Sun, Oct 25
Higashimatsuyama Wind Ensemble Autumn Concert
An autumn wind band concert by an ensemble celebrating its 40th anniversary. The program features popular pieces selected according to the theme and memorable works chosen by the members. Admission is free and open to everyone.
- 2026Tue, Oct 27
Tokigawa Historic Path Course 15km Walk
An approximately 15-kilometer historical walking tour starting from the Higashimatsuyama Walking Center, visiting sites such as Yakyu Inari Shrine and the Experience Center of Fossils and Nature. Spend a full day enjoying the local nature and famous sights while experiencing the autumn atmosphere.
- 2026Tue, Oct 27
Foot Health and Shoe Selection Tips Lecture
A lecture where you can learn how to choose the right shoes and wear them properly from a professional shoe fitter. Take this opportunity to rethink your health starting from your feet.
- 2026Tue, Oct 27 – Sun, Nov 1
Saiyukai 29th Painting Exhibition
The 29th painting exhibition by Saiyukai held in the library exhibition room. Take time to view a diverse collection of painting works carefully crafted by the members.
- 2026Wed, Oct 28
Autumn Wreath and Small Bouquet Workshop
A workshop to enjoy making wreaths and bouquets using autumn plants. Complete your creation under the instructor's guidance and bring home seasonal colors for your room.
- 2026Sat, Oct 31 – Sun, Nov 1
The 56th Ooka District Cultural Festival
A cultural festival where groups based at Ooka Civic Activity Center showcase the results of their daily activities. The venue will feature exhibitions of various works, offering visitors a chance to leisurely appreciate the community's cultural activities.
- 2026Sat, Oct 31 – Sun, Nov 1
Ooka District Cultural Festival
A cultural festival presented by groups active at the Civic Activity Center. Visitors can view a variety of exhibitions that reflect their regular activities and take time to appreciate the impressive creations made by local residents.
- 2026Thu, Jan 1 – Tue, Dec 29
Hands-on Animal Experiences at Saitama Children's Zoo
This regular event offers activities such as animal petting, pony riding, cow milking, and animal feeding. A rich lineup of programs for both children and adults to learn and enjoy is available, including guided tours, craft workshops, and picture-story shows (kamishibai).
- Wed, Apr 1, 2026 – Wed, Mar 31, 2027
Koala Happy 40th Anniversary
An event commemorating the 40th anniversary of koalas arriving at the zoo. A diverse range of special events will be held, including distribution of limited-edition stickers, fun and educational exhibitions, and an Australia Fair featuring character appearances and live ethnic instrument performances.
- Wed, Apr 1, 2026 – Wed, Mar 31, 2027
Let's Make the World Rodent Map Together
An online project aiming to complete a world map by having participants send photos of handmade rodent crafts via Instagram DM. Anyone can casually participate, learning about rodent ecology by accurately depicting real-life species using felt, origami, or other crafting materials at home.
- 2026Sat, Jul 4 – Sun, Dec 27
Giraffe Backyard Tour
A guided tour led by zookeepers behind the scenes of the giraffe house. Explore areas normally closed to the public and observe the animals up close. Held on weekend and holiday afternoons; participation tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis at the information counter starting from park opening.
- Sat, Jul 18, 2026 – Wed, Mar 31, 2027
Children's Zoo Worksheet Quiz and Explanations
A total of 7 different worksheets are available to help you learn about animals while exploring the park. Observe the animals and make new discoveries while tackling spot-the-difference puzzles, discovery bingo, and more.
- Thu, Sep 24, 2026 – Sat, Jan 30, 2027
ZOO HOPPER GUIDE
A private guided tour limited to one group per day, where an experienced staff member knowledgeable about the zoo guides you around the park by cart. Enjoy a special time with a course around the grounds and guidance tailored to your preferences.
- 2026Thu, Oct 1 – Tue, Dec 29
Art Festa 2026: "watch! Animal sign"
An event where visitors can appreciate various animal artworks along the zoo's walkways. During the period, workshops such as art activities and Christmas wreath making are also held, allowing visitors to casually enjoy art at the autumn zoo.
- Thu, Oct 1, 2026 – Sun, Feb 14, 2027
Higashimatsuyama and Hiki Sightseeing Stamp Rally
A digital stamp rally visiting sightseeing spots in the Hiki area. Depending on the number of stamps collected, you can exchange them for prizes at facilities or enter a drawing to win local specialty products.
- 2026Sun, Oct 11 – Tue, Nov 3
21st Scarecrow Festival Contest
This contest features a wide variety of unique and creative scarecrows crafted by local residents. Visitors can freely view these inventive masterpieces throughout the event period.
- 2026Thu, Oct 15 – Thu, Nov 5
Sculptor Hiroatsu Takata Exhibition 2026
Focusing on the days leading Japanese sculptor Hiroatsu Takata spent in France, this exhibition features works centered on his interactions with Japanese and French intellectuals. Through sculptures and paintings left behind in his atelier, visitors can explore his profound artistic world free of charge.
- 2026Thu, Oct 15 – Thu, Nov 5
Art Exhibition by People with Disabilities (Inside the Hiroatsu Takata Exhibition Venue)
An art exhibition held concurrently inside the Hiroatsu Takata Exhibition venue. A diverse selection of works rich in individuality is on display, and all visitors are welcome to freely appreciate the art.
- 2026Tue, Oct 27 – Sun, Nov 22
Takasaka Library: Book Medicine
An event offering wrapped books for loan with their titles concealed. By choosing based on attached prescriptions that detail effects and usage directions, visitors can enjoy encountering new and unexpected books.