Best Events Japan October 2025

Add to Favorites

Welcome to the latest installment of Voyapon’s series, where we share some of the best under-the-radar events happening throughout Japan. Every month, we give our readers the best events from Hokkaido to Okinawa and everywhere else in between. Find our list, below, of some amazing activities happening in October 2025.

Tokyo

From art and culture to seasonal culinary highlights, locals and visitors are spoiled for choice in Tokyo this month.

Performing Arts Festival: Autumn Meteorite 2025 Tokyo (October 1 – November 3)

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo Festival Executive Committee has recently announced the lineup for Performing Arts Festival: Autumn Meteorite 2025 Tokyo, running from October 1–November 3 at Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and other Ikebukuro venues. Guided by artistic director Toshiki Okada,  the festival embraces three missions: creating new art, promoting artists internationally, and nurturing future talent. Audiences can enjoy 14 performances from Japan and abroad, seven programs of lectures and workshops, plus three “Hello and Welcome” initiatives for accessibility and inclusivity. With bold new works and global perspectives, the festival highlights Japan’s role as a hub for innovative performing arts.

When	October 1 – November 3
Where	Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre 1-8-1 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0021 Global Ring Theatre 1-8-26 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0021
Admission Fee	Depending on the program. Starting from 500 yen.
Official Website	https://autumnmeteorite.jp/en

Tokyo International Film Festival 2025 (October 27 to November 5)

The 38th Tokyo International Film Festival will be held October 27 to November 5 in Tokyo’s Hibiya–Yurakucho–Marunouchi–Ginza district. The 10-day event opens with Climbing for Life, directed by Junji Sakamoto. Esteemed filmmaker Carlo Chatrian has been appointed President of the International Competition Jury, while Kumi Takiuchi will serve as Festival Navigator. The festival also includes TIFFCOM, an industry market running from October 29 to 31 at the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center (Hamamatsucho-kan), aimed at connecting content creators across film, television, and animation. TIFF, accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) and founded in 1985, continues to champion global cinema and emerging filmmakers with screenings, in-person events, workshops, and networking opportunities.

When	October 27 – November 5
Where	Hibiya-Yurakucho-Marunouchi-Ginza district
Admission Fee	Free
Official Website	https://2025.tiff-jp.net/en/

Bake Neko Parade in Kagurazaka, Tokyo (October 12)

Kagurazaka’s Halloween parade offers a feline twist — everyone must be dressed as a cat. Inspired by Natsume Soseki’s renowned novel I Am a Cat and the neighborhood’s love of felines, the event coincides with the Kagurazaka Town Jump Festa, which also features the lively garçon (waiters’) race. Expect samurai cats, spooky cats, cute cats, and even real cats parading through the streets. Four parades take place between 1:30pm and 4:30pm, plus a special dancing cats parade at Zenkokuji Temple. With stamp rallies, folk dancing, souvenirs, and trick-or-treating, the festival is open to all—just bring a cat costume and 500 yen to join.

https://youtu.be/Sh_6nuz4GY0?si=weF0uXObAe41Ks6t

When	October 12
Where	H104 Yaraicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0805
Admission Fee	Adults (Age 16+): 1,000 yen Children: 500 yen
Official Website	https://bakeneko.oops.jp/

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills’ “The Nostalgic Soul of Tokyo Today: Music, Flavors & Nightlife in Shimbashi” New Stay Package (Ongoing)

Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills has launched a new cultural stay package, “The Nostalgic Soul of Tokyo Today: Music, Flavors & Nightlife in Shimbashi,” available from September 22. Inspired by Japan’s Showa era, the plan offers guests a guided 3.5-hour walking tour through Shimbashi’s nostalgic backstreets, blending history with modern trends. Highlights include dining at an intimate obanzai restaurant, listening to retro kayokyoku records at a vintage music bar, and experiencing Japan’s snack bar culture with karaoke and local conversation. The package also includes a stay at Andaz Tokyo, daily breakfast, complimentary lounge access, spa facilities, and minibar service. Guests must book at least two nights, be over 20, and reserve 14 days in advance. With prices starting at 125,000 yen per night, this immersive experience promises travelers a sensory journey through Tokyo’s culinary, musical, and nightlife traditions, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s Showa-era charm and its influence on contemporary culture.

When	Ongoing
Where	Toranomon Hills Mori Tower, 1-23-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001
Admission Fee	Starting from 125,000 yen
Official Website	https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/tyoaz-andaz-tokyo-toranomon-hills

Grand Hyatt Tokyo:  Wine Around The World – A Luxurious Wine Pairing Dinner (October 3)

The Oak Door Steakhouse at Grand Hyatt Tokyo hosts its exclusive Wine Around the World pairing dinners monthly, each featuring a curated New-World wine selection matched with bespoke steakhouse cuisine by the chef and sommelier ensemble. The October edition, Chapter 2: South America, takes place Friday, October 3, with doors opening at 6:30pm and dinner starting at 7pm. Attendees embark on a high-altitude wine journey through the Andes, including standout vintages such as 2016 Cachapoal Duquesa D’a (Chile), 2019 Bodega Catena Zapata Malbec (Argentina), 2020 Escudo Rojo Baronesa Cabernet Sauvignon (Chile), 2021 Viña Cobos Bramare Malbec (Argentina), and the 2016 Sena Blend (Chile). Priced at 26,400 yen per person (tax and service included), the event is intimate, limited to 12 guests, and upholds a smart-casual dress code. Reservations are essential via phone or online; note that changes to seating cannot be accommodated and cancellations within five days incur full fees. Events will continue monthly focusing on various wine-making countries. See the Grand Hyatt Tokyo website for more details. 

When	October 3
Where	6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032
Admission Fee	26,400 yen
Official Website	https://www.tokyo.grand.hyatt.co.jp/en/restaurants/recommended/oakdoor-wine-around-the-world/

Pink Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula Tokyo (October 1 to October 30)

Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October with Pink Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula Tokyo’s elegant Lobby, beneath the dazzling hanabi-inspired chandelier. Available from October 1 to 31 from 11:30am to 8:30pm. (last order at 6:30pm). Indulge in a refined medley of seven savory bites — such as king crab & potato salad sandwiches, scallop tartare with pink corn and pickled apple, and shrimp spring rolls with pickled red cabbage — and six exquisite sweets, including rose-scented macarons featuring the Pink Ribbon motif and creamy red velvet cake.  Accompanied by The Peninsula’s original black tea or curated blends from Art of Tea, each tea set contributes to the Japan Breast Cancer Screening Society.  Weekday price: 9,000 yen per person. Weekend & holidays: 10,000 yen per person (tax and 18% service charge included).

When	October 1-30
Where	1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0006
Admission Fee	9,000 yen or 10,000 yen plus tax and service charge
Official Website	https://www.peninsula.com/en/tokyo/special-offers/dining/pink-afternoon-tea

Ikebukuro Cosplay Festival (October 24 to October 26)

The Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2025, nicknamed “IKEHALO,” is one of Japan’s largest Halloween events and takes place in Ikebukuro — Tokyo’s anime and manga hub. It spans three days: Friday evening, October 24 (4:30pm–10:30pm), followed by Saturday–Sunday, October 25–26 (10am–6pm). The festival includes stage shows, photo opportunities, parades, cosplay gatherings, booths, and social media engagement. Tickets include Premium (3,980 yen per day; plus 10% fee), General (2,980 yen per day), and a discounted 3-Day Premium pass (10,000 yen), plus a Friday-night-only ticket (3,480 yen). Participants must follow rules on changing rooms, photography etiquette, and public conduct.

When	October 24-26
Where	Ikebukuro area
Admission Fee	Starting from 2,980 yen
Official Website	https://ikebukurocosplay.jp/en/

Yokai Bon Odori in Tachikawa (October 11 to October 13)

The Yokai Bon Odori Festival returns in 2025, staged in October at GREEN SPRINGS 2F Plaza in Tachikawa, Tokyo, running from October 11 to 13, daily from 11am–9pm. This unique Bon Odori celebration invites attendees to dress as yokai (Japanese folklore spirits) and enjoy live music, DJ sets, a costume contest, and enticing street food in both free and ticketed zones. The ticketed area enforces a dress code — becoming a yokai, wearing a yukata/jinbei, or donning official merchandise. Free offerings include a yokai disco, food trucks, street performances, a retail zone, a whimsical “yokai wedding,” and a nighttime yokai parade.

When	October 11-13
Where	Green Springs 3-1, Midoricho, Tachikawa, Tokyo 190-0014
Admission Fee	Starting from 3,000 yen
Official Website	https://www.yokaibonodori.tokyo/english

Hyatt Regency Tokyo: Autumn Campaigns (Ongoing) 

Hyatt Regency Tokyo introduces a series of new offerings this autumn. Crossroads Kitchen launched on August 14 with a “Dining in the Kitchen” concept is running a World of Hyatt promotion from September 15 to December 12, offering members 25% off dining. Guests can also enjoy the Pierre Hermé Paris Afternoon Tea from October 1 to November 30, with an exclusive October discount of 20% for those entering between 4pm and 5pm. Additionally, a convenient new shuttle bus service between Shinjuku Station and the hotel began in September, enhancing accessibility for all visitors.

When	Ongoing
Where	2-7-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0023
Admission Fee	Starting from 6,750 yen
Official Website	https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/tyoty-hyatt-regency-tokyo/events-and-attractions

Disneyland and DisneySea Halloween Festival (Until October 31)

From September 17 to October 31, Tokyo Disneyland (along with DisneySea) will host its Disney Halloween event. Guests can enjoy the high-energy parade “The Villains’ Halloween ‘Into the Frenzy’” and the dazzling fireworks display “Night High Hallowen.” The Haunted Mansion “Holiday Nightmare” overlay, inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas, runs until January 12, 2026. Guests may wear full costumes from September 16 to 30 and October 16 to 31, with costume-wearing discouraged from October 1 to 15. Additionally, limited-period Halloween merchandise and menu items will be available starting September 16.

When	Until October 31
Where	Tokyo Disney Resort
Admission Fee	Adult: starting from 8,900 yen Junior: starting from 7,400 yen Child: starting from 5,300 yen
Official Website	https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/index.html

Osaka

Anyone visiting Osaka in October should be prepared for plenty of spooky moments.

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights and HAHAHA! Halloween Party (Until November 3)

The HAHAHA! Halloween Party at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a daytime Halloween event running from September 4 to November 3. It features a lively atmosphere filled with fun and excitement. Guests can enjoy various attractions, including the Pokémon Unstoppable Halloween Party and the Minion Monsters Greeting, where park characters wear special costumes unique to the season. Additionally, the Trick or Treat experience offers opportunities to collect treats throughout the park. This event provides a festive and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages during the Halloween season.

When	Until November 3
Where	2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana, Osaka 554-0031
Admission Fee	Starting from 8,800 yen
Official Website	https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/events/fall-2025/hahaha-halloween-party-2025

Hokkaido

Autumn arrives in Hokkaido and is welcomed with a huge festival.

Sapporo Autumn Fest (Until October 4)

The Sapporo Autumn Fest 2025 takes place  in the city’s Odori Park, celebrating the theme of Sapporo Hokkaido Cuisine. This popular event brings together seasonal ingredients and regional specialties from municipalities across Hokkaido, with support from local businesses, to promote culinary culture and regional revitalization. Visitors can sample dishes from food booths, discover unique flavors, and enjoy highlights recommended by the festival. In addition, this year’s collaboration with the Sapporo Gourmet Coupon offers great ways to savor cuisine and explore the city on a budget. Special sightseeing routes are also suggested, making the festival a feast for all senses.

Kobe

Just like last year, Rokko Island in Kobe Prefecture is once again inviting people to its Halloween event.

Rokko Island Halloween Festival (October 25 to October 26)

The Rokko Island Halloween Festival 2025 will be held on October 25–26 at the River Mall & Event Plaza on Rokko Island. Attendees are encouraged to join in original costumes—whether alone or with friends and family. Over both days, expect booths from local vendors, trick-or-treating across the island, craft-making, fun games and attractions, street performances, and live stage shows by local artists. On one of the two days, there will be a costume parade (with gifts for early registrants) and a costume contest awarding prizes for the best performances. Updates will be on the dedicated event site.

When	October 25-26
Where	Rokko Island River Mall 2-22 Koyochonaka, Higashinada, Kobe, Hyogo 658-0032
Admission Fee	Free
Official Website	https://www.rokko-island.com/event/491

Hiroshima

October in Hiroshima has a lot in store for families.

Halloween Parade Costume Making Workshop at Hiroshima City Forest Park (October 26)

On Sunday, October 26, Hiroshima City Forest Park (Hiroshima-yugaku no Mori) hosts a cheerful Halloween costume-making workshop from 9:30am to 2:00pm, split into two sessions (9:30am–11:30am and 12:30pm–2pm). Participants (up to 50 people per session, material availability permitting) can get creative with crayons to design their own costumes — wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy. After crafting, you’re invited to join the “Forest Halloween Parade”, with parades beginning at 11:30am and 2pm, departing from the grassy plaza. Parade participants, especially children, may enjoy cosplay perks and treats. The event is free, open to everyone, and held outdoors. Note that both activities will be canceled in case of rain.

When	October 26
Where	Hiroshima City Forest Park
Admission Fee	Free
Official Website	Halloween Parade

Tochigi

Just a train ride from Tokyo, visitors to Nikko can expect one of the region’s largest autumn festivals.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival (October 16 to October 17)

The Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival, held annually on October 16–17, is the largest festival in the Nikko area. It features captivating displays of yabusame (horseback archery) and a grand procession of 1,000 participants dressed as samurai warriors, reenacting the funeral procession of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture and history. The shrine is located approximately six minutes from Nikko Station or Tobu-Nikko Station by the World Heritage Tour bus to Nishisando bus stop.

When	October 16-17
Where	Nikko Toshogu Shrine 2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1431
Admission Fee	Free
Official Website	https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-toshogu-shrine-autumn-grand-festival/

October ushers in the spooky season in Japan. Don’t miss these vibrant autumn festivals and Halloween events!

Add to Favorites