We are all about fall in Japan. That singular sense of hope and nostalgia is in the air, leaves are finally starting to change, and it’s almost sweater season. We are ready to fall in love with everything.
Here are KABIN’s top picks for October 2024. Dive into our curated selections and discover the essence of Kansai's autumnal allure.
Tradition
Kurama Fire Festival
Yuki Shrine, Kurama Temple, Kyoto
DATE: 10/10
The Kurama Fire Festival, one of Kyoto's most famous and eccentric events, celebrates the god Yuki Daimyōjin's journey to Yuki Shrine in 940. The highlight is a procession of local men carrying massive flaming torches through Kurama village. As night falls, watch fires are lit, and men haul torches up to 80 kg, gathering at the Sanmon Gate. After a sacred rope is cut, they parade portable shrines through the village, displaying their strength. Dressed in traditional attire, participants carry on this ancient tradition late into the warm October night.
NATURE
Amagasaki Mukogawa Cosmos Garden
Amagasaki, Hyogo
DATE: MiD OCTOBER~
The Mukogawa Hige no Watashi Cosmos Garden was founded in 2003. What was once a neglected riverbed has been turned into a stunning cosmos garden thanks to the hard work of local residents. Today, it is a popular destination, drawing many visitors annually. Between mid-October and mid-November, the riverbed is covered with a vibrant display of around 5.5 million blooming cosmos flowers.
NIGHTLIFE
JAPARADISCO! + DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER
CLUB METRO, KYOTO
DATE: 10/25, 31
The halloween edition of Metro’s monthly drag show, Diamonds Are Forever, changed our dang life last year. The enduring legacy of PIERROT, an Osaka-based glam party that began in 1989, reminiscent of the Gatsby-esque throwdowns of old. The queens queen, and the people party. DO NOT MISS IT.
The Finest Japanese Music Wamono Night! Step into a world of sonic splendor with Wamono Night, a celebration of the best in Japanese music from the late 70s and 80s. Immerse yourself in the smooth rhythms of Japanese Rare Groove, the electric beats of Machine Funk, the catchy melodies of City Pop, the infectious energy of Disco, and the polished sounds of AOR.