Owari Tsushima Autumn Festival takes place in Tsushima City, Aichi, on Saturday, October 3 and Sunday, October 4, 2026. Held annually on the first Sunday of October and the preceding Saturday, this historic festival is believed to have originated in the early 18th century.

The highlight of the festival is the procession of elaborately decorated floats from four districts of Tsushima: Nanakiri, Mukojima, Imaichiba, and Kamori.

Each float features traditional karakuri mechanical puppets, which perform intricate movements accompanied by traditional festival music.

Elaborately decorated floats and traditional karakuri puppets

The beautifully decorated floats are one of the defining features of Owari Tsushima Autumn Festival.

One of the most fascinating sights is the karakuri puppet performances presented on the floats. These mechanical puppets perform intricate movements, with some appearing to write characters and others making movements that resemble flying through the air.

For international visitors interested in traditional Japanese craftsmanship, puppetry, and cultural heritage, these performances offer a unique glimpse into a long-standing local tradition.

Hear the sounds of gongs, drums, and festival music

In addition to the large floats, Owari Tsushima Autumn Festival features Ishidori festival floats and kagura performances.

Ishidori festival floats are accompanied by the energetic sounds of gongs and drums as they make their way through the streets. Traditional kagura performances also feature drums and flutes, adding to the festive atmosphere throughout the city.

Rather than taking place in a single event venue, the festival unfolds across the streets of Tsushima. Walking through the city allows visitors to encounter different aspects of the celebration and experience the local atmosphere firsthand.

Key Details

Dates: Sat, October 3 – Sun, October 4, 2026
Location: Around Tsushima Shrine and other areas of Tsushima City, Aichi

Access

Meitetsu Tsushima Line / Bisai Line: Tsushima Station is the nearest railway station, with the main festival areas accessible on foot.
Traffic restrictions may be in place during the festival. Visitors are advised to use public transportation and check the latest transportation information before traveling.

Inquiries

Tsushima City Hall, Tourism & Promotion Division
Tel: 0567-55-9589

Please check the official Tsushima City website for the latest information on the festival schedule, float routes, traffic restrictions, and possible changes due to weather conditions.