【2026】November Events and Festivals in Fukuoka Prefecture

November brings the deepening of autumn. From autumn foliage celebrations to illuminations and light-up displays, there is a wealth of events to enjoy as the season transitions from autumn into winter! Here, we introduce the events taking place in Fukuoka Prefecture this November!

Ashiya Sand Sculpture Exhibition (Ashiya Town)

Located in northern Fukuoka Prefecture, Ashiya Town sits at the mouth of the Onga River, overlooking the Hibiki-nada Sea that stretches to the northwest of the Kanmon Strait. Facing the Hibiki-nada Sea, Ashiya Beach extends for approximately 1 kilometer and is known for its remarkably wide sandy shoreline. At the Ashiya Sand Sculpture Exhibition, visitors can admire sculptures crafted from the fine sand of Ashiya Beach. Made solely of sand and water, these delicate and fragile sand sculptures are created by top professional sand artists from Japan and across the globe. These highly artistic masterpieces are truly impressive to behold and look stunning on social media! At night, illuminations and fireworks light up the venue, casting the sand sculptures in a fantastical glow.

Dates: Friday, October 23 – Sunday, November 8, 2026

Miike Port (Miike Port Observation Point) (Omuta City)

撮影：ふるいけ博文

At Miike Port, which was inscribed as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2015, visitors can witness a miraculous, breathtaking view that appears only twice a year—for about one week each in January and November. The setting sun aligns in a straight line from the far end of the long channel through the center of the lock gate, revealing the spectacular "Path of Light." Along with the surrounding industrial scenery, it has become a very popular photography spot. During this period, Pier No. 1 is specially opened to the public.

Dates: Monday, November 16 – Sunday, November 22, 2026 / Wednesday, January 20 – Tuesday, January 26, 2027

Taibaru Gingko Trees (Hirokawa Town)

The ginkgo, the symbol tree of Hirokawa Town, was designated as the town tree through a public call to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the town's municipal organization. In mid- to late November, as autumn deepens, the row of ginkgo trees in the Taibaru district turns beautifully, coloring the entire surrounding area in golden hues. Every year, many people visit to catch a glimpse of this breathtaking scenery. Furthermore, when the colored leaves fall, the ground resembles a spread-out carpet, offering an exceptional beauty.

[Ginkgo Viewing Information]
Viewing Period: Tuesday, November 17 – Monday (National Holiday), November 23, 2026
Viewing Hours: 9:00 – 17:00
* Entry is prohibited outside the viewing period.
* Please check the Hirokawa Town Tourism Association website for parking information.

Ishibashi Cultural Center Autumn Rose Fair & Maple Festival (Kurume City)

Gorgeous autumn roses decorating the Western-style garden, and vivid autumn leaves beautifully coloring the Japanese garden. The autumn roses are at their best from late October to late November, while the red and yellow autumn foliage reaches its peak viewing period from late November to early December. There are also plenty of events to fully enjoy the deepening autumn, including photo contests and workshops.

Dates: Friday, October 23 – Sunday, December 6, 2026

Hakushu Festival and Parade on Water (Yanagawa City)

Held for three days from November 1st to 3rd to commemorate the anniversary of the death of poet Hakushu Kitahara (November 2nd). Approximately 1,500 people, including invited guests from various organizations and general passengers (selected in advance), board around 130 "donko" boats decorated with hozuki (Chinese lantern plant) lanterns and andon paper lamps to parade through Yanagawa at night. Temporary stages are set up at various points along the approximately 4-kilometer canal, featuring performances of taiko drumming, koto music, and choral singing. Lasting about two and a half hours from Yanagawa Bridge to Okinohata, this festival offers a unique experience characteristic of the canal town of Yanagawa, where guests can savor fine sake while taking in the fantastical atmosphere of a nighttime water town.

Dates: Sunday, November 1 – Tuesday (National Holiday), November 3, 2026

Grand Sumo Tournament in Kyushu (Fukuoka City)

Held every November at the Fukuoka International Center over a period of 15 days, this is an official Grand Sumo tournament (honbasho). During the tournament period, you might even spot sumo wrestlers dressed in yukata at various spots throughout the city, such as inside buses or at restaurants! At the Fukuoka Prefecture booth in front of the venue, warm local specialties and alcoholic beverages from five municipalities within the prefecture will be on sale.

Dates: Sunday, November 8 – Sunday, November 22, 2026

Autumn Foliage Spots & Events

Nyoirinji Temple Light and Autumn Leaves Maple Festival (Ogori City)

Held every November, the "Light and Autumn Leaves Maple Festival" consists of three fantastical nights during which the temple grounds are illuminated. Approximately 10,000 frog figurines throughout the grounds welcome visitors.

Dates: Sunday, November 1 – Tuesday (National Holiday), November 3, 2026

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Yanagisaka Wax Tree Festival (Kurume City)

These rows of Japanese wax trees, designated as a Natural Monument of Fukuoka Prefecture, were planted about 250 years ago as a raw material for candle-making wax. The spectacle of approximately 200 wax trees, each with a trunk circumference of around 1 meter and a height of 5 to 6 meters, stretching for over 1 kilometer is truly breathtaking.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 – Sunday, November 29, 2026
* A pedestrian zone will be in place on November 21 (Sat) – 23 (Mon, National Holiday), and November 28 (Sat) – 29 (Sun).

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Treasure Mountain Mt. Kora Autumn Foliage Viewing Festival (Kurume City)

Midway up the approach to Mount Kora lies "Momijidani" (Maple Valley), a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves that has been celebrated since the Edo period. Known as "The Autumn Leaves of Nakatani"—one of the Ten Scenic Views of Mount Kora—the spectacle of ancient maple trees turning into vibrant colors is truly breathtaking.

Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026
Aso Oura-so: Special Autumn Foliage Viewing (Iizuka City)

Built as a residence for the Aso family—counted as one of the "Three Great Families of Chikuho"—both the mansion and its garden are usually closed to the public. However, during this limited period only, visitors can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage in the garden.

Dates: Monday (National Holiday), November 23 – Monday, November 30, 2026

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Kawachi Wisteria Garden (Kitakyushu City)

Known as a famous spot for wisteria, Kawachi Wisteria Garden also features approximately 700 maple trees that reach their peak viewing period from mid-November to early December. Because the maple tunnel ascends a steep slope, please visit in comfortable walking shoes, such as sneakers. Please check the official website and social media in advance for the opening period.

Dates: Saturday, November 22 – Sunday, November 30, 2025

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Homangu Kamado Shrine Autumn Foliage Illumination (Dazaifu City)

Known as a famous spot for autumn foliage, the shrine hosts various events celebrating the radiant beauty of autumn leaves, such as maples and ginkgoes. The peak viewing period for the foliage is typically from late November to early December. Nighttime illuminations are also held.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 – Sunday, December 6, 2026
Shiranoe Botanical Garden Autumn Foliage Festival (Kitakyushu City)

To coincide with the peak viewing period of the autumn foliage, guided park tours, a botanical market, concerts, and tea ceremony gatherings are scheduled to be held.

Dates: Saturday, November 28 and Sunday, November 29, 2026

Your Guide to Fukuoka Prefecture's Best Fall Foliage Destinations

Festivals & Traditional Events

Kama City – Ichiyajō Festival (Kama City)

The magnificent "Ichiyajō" (overnight castle), illuminated every day, is brought back to life at the Masutomi Castle Ruins. Fireworks displays and other festivities are also scheduled.

Dates: Sunday, October 25 – Sunday, November 8, 2026

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Don To Kagashi（Scarecrow） Festival (Chikuzen Town)

A festival to give thanks for the blessings of nature in Chikuzen Town and share the joy of the harvest. In addition to the exhibition of the customary giant straw scarecrow that serves as the symbol of the festival, there are plenty of fun events such as stage performances, a market, food and drink stalls, and a fire pump water-spraying experience!

Dates: Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, 2026

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Chikuzen Koyanose Post Town Festival (Kitakyushu City)

Koyanose-shuku was once one of the six post towns of Chikuzen. Set against the backdrop of townhouses preserving the atmosphere of a traditional post town, events take place throughout the entire town, including a flea market and the "Chikuzen Koyanose Shukuba Odori" (Bon dance), a designated Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Kigyosai Festival Yahata2026 (Kitakyushu City)

Beginning as a commemoration of the opening ceremony of the state-run Yawata Steel Works, this festival is a quintessential autumn celebration representing Kitakyushu. Approximately 300 street stalls line the venue, enlivened by lively performances including singing, dancing, music, and street entertainment.

Dates: Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8, 2026

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Buzen Karasu Tengu Minato Festival (Buzen City)

Buzen City's two major events, the "Buzen City Port Festival Fireworks Display" and the "Buzen City Karasu Tengu Festival," have merged to be held together for the very first time! At night, fireworks will be launched from Unoshima Fishing Port, vividly lighting up the Buzen Sea and the night sky.

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026

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Light-ups & Illuminations

Illuminations that color winter in Fukuoka. The art of light—such as colorful and vivid lights, LED lighting, and projection mapping—fantastically envelops the streets and sightseeing spots.

Wakamatsu Illumination 2026 (Kitakyushu City)

A collaborative project with the illustrated lanterns of the Kukinoumi Fireworks Festival. Through the harmonious blend of the warm glow of lanterns and brilliant illuminations, the night of Wakamatsu is fantastically colored.

Dates: Friday, October 9, 2026 – Monday, January 11, 2027

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teamLab: Fukuoka Castle Ruins Light Festival 2026–2027 (Fukuoka City)

Boasting the largest scale in Kyushu and also known by the alias "Ishijo" (Stone Castle) for its beautiful all-stone walls, the Fukuoka Castle Ruins are transformed into a dynamic art space through this teamLab project.

Dates: Friday, October 30, 2026 – Monday (National Holiday), January 11, 2027
Christmas Advent (Fukuoka City, etc.)

Celebrating its 14th edition this year, this is a quintessential Fukuoka winter tradition. The expanse from Hakata through Nakasu to Tenjin turns into a dazzling "ribbon of light," featuring a variety of illuminations and Christmas markets.

Dates: Monday, November 2 – Friday, December 25, 2026
* Start dates vary depending on the venue.
* Some venues will continue through January 2027.

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Kobito Encyclopedia × ACROS Fukuoka Illumination “Forest of Kobitos” (Fukuoka City)

Following up on last year, the world of "Kobitos" arrives right in the heart of Tenjin, Fukuoka City! During the event period, the nighttime Step Garden and rooftop observation deck will be specially open to the public. Enjoy dazzling light art as you climb "Mount ACROS" and take in a sweeping panoramic view of Tenjin's night skyline from 60 meters above the ground.

Dates: Friday, November 6, 2026 – Sunday, January 31, 2027

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Kanmon Straits Candle Night (Kitakyushu City)

This unique candle event takes place simultaneously across two adjacent cities separated by the Kanmon Straits: Kitakyushu City and Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The nostalgic townscape of Mojiko Retro is illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight, enveloping the area in a romantic atmosphere.

Dates: Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, 2026

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Mojiko Retro Roman Tosai Illumination 2026 (Kitakyushu City)

The entire Mojiko Retro area is enveloped in the fantastical glow of approximately 300,000 softly shining lights. A lighting ceremony is scheduled to be held on the first day. Another highlight is that this magical spectacle can be enjoyed over an extended period.

Dates: Saturday, November 14, 2026 – Sunday, May 23, 2027

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KOKURA Christmas Market & Castle (Kitakyushu City)

Experience the excitement of "Christmas Advent"—held mainly in Fukuoka City—in Kokura, Kitakyushu City as well. In 2025, it attracted 1.35 million visitors. With a newly renewed venue layout, the event creates a magical Christmas atmosphere taking full advantage of Kitakyushu's distinctive scenery, including Kokura Castle and the Murasaki River.

Dates: Friday, November 20 – Friday, December 25, 2026
Kokura Illumination (Kitakyushu City)

"Kokura Illumination" brings vibrant color to the streets of Kokura in winter. Large retail stores, shopping streets, and local businesses unite as downtown Kokura—including the area around Kokura Station and the banks of the Murasaki River—is wrapped in colorful, fantastical light. There are also diverse photo spots to discover, including the popular KOKURA monument!

Dates: Friday, November 20, 2026 – Monday, January 11, 2027

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Illumination and Light-up Spots in Fukuoka

Walking & Trekking Events

Fukutsu ♡ Sweets Walking (Fukutsu City)

So popular that there is a waiting list every time, Fukutsu Sweets Walking is an event where participants receive a map at the reception and enjoy walking along a route through Fukutsu City while exchanging tickets for local sweets.

Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Nakama Heritage Festival 2026 (Nakama City)

An event where visitors can discover the charm of industrial modernization heritage sites and other local landmarks through special experiences. A variety of programs are offered, including special tours of facilities normally closed to the public and guided walking tours (advance reservation required).

Dates: Sunday, November 8 – Sunday, November 29, 2026
Historical Site Tour & Relaxing Hammock Experience (Buzen City)

Stroll along woodchip paths, visit the "bo" (residences) where yamabushi (mountain ascetics) once lived, and experience tree hammocks that promote restful sleep. Soothe both mind and body through forest therapy surrounded by lush trees.

Date: Saturday, November 15, 2026
Kyushu OLLE "Chikuho Kawara Course" – Olle with a Detour to the Agricultural Festival! (Kawara Town)

Take a detour to the Agricultural Festival again this year! Hosted by JA Tagawa, the Agricultural Festival features sales of fresh vegetables and a wide variety of other fun activities. Why not take a walk together with members of the Kawara Olle Association while fully enjoying autumn in Kawara?

Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026
Kyushu OLLE "Kurume Korasan Course" – Mt. Kora Momiji-gari Olle (Kurume City)

The "Mt. Kora Momiji-gari Olle" stops by the venue of the "Takara-no-yama Mt. Kora Momiji-gari (Autumn Leaves) Festival" held on the same day. There is hospitality such as sweets and tokoroten (jelly noodles) at various places along the course.

Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026

Alcohol-Related Events

HAKATA SPIRITS: Hakata Shochu Festival (Fukuoka City)

In celebration of "Honkaku Shochu & Awamori Day" on November 1, this special event is packed with the appeal of Hakata shochu. Around 40 brands from 11 breweries will gather in one place. You can search for your favorite glass while conversing directly with the brewers.

Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Yukuhashi Bar-Hopping Rally (Yukuhashi City)

An event to enjoy lively times with friends while hopping between bars in Yukuhashi at night! Receive a rally card and map at reception, find and visit the three establishments listed on your card in order within the time limit, and savor the specially prepared menus.

Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026
Kurume Furusato Mizuma Festival (Special Edition: Jojima Sake Brewery Opening in Mizuma) (Kurume City)

The "Jojima Sake Brewery Opening" makes a special guest appearance to be held concurrently with the "Kurume City Furusato Mizuma Festival." This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy sake from breweries participating in the Jojima Sake Brewery Opening at an affordable price of 300 to 400 yen per cup. Seasonally limited Japanese sake, shochu, liqueurs, and more will also be available.

Dates: Saturday, November 7 and Sunday, November 8, 2026

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Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine: Autumn Dedicated Fine Sake Exhibition (Dazaifu City)

Twice a year, in March and November, sake from breweries across Fukuoka Prefecture is dedicated to the deity Tenjin-sama at Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. During this period, an exhibition, tasting, and spot sale by each sake brewery will be held at the Emado (votive tablet hall).

Dates: Saturday, November 14 – Monday (National Holiday), November 23, 2026
Jojima Sake-Kaido ( breweries along the street ) Festival (Kurume City)

This is a two-day event where you can tour breweries via a free shuttle bus and fully enjoy the charming streets of Jojima Town along with "Jojima Sake." By purchasing the "Tasting Comparison Card & Tickets" (a booklet of 12 tickets for 2,000 yen) at the first brewery you visit, you can enjoy up to 10 ochoko cups of local sake.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 and Saturday, November 28, 2026

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Wakatakeya Sake Brewery Autumn Brewery Festival (Kurume City)

Boasting a 300-year history since its founding, Wakatakeya will host its Autumn Brewery Festival. At the festival, visitors can purchase "nama-amazake" (fresh unpasteurized sweet fermented rice drink), which is not normally sold, as well as exclusive festival-limited sake, and enjoy a variety of flavors at the free tasting corner.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 2026
Kyoho Winery: Kyoho Nouveau Festival (Kurume City)

The 2026 vintage Kyoho Wine Nouveau makes its debut! In addition to sales, you can enjoy a "no-lose" wine lottery for 500 yen per draw. Restaurant "Heurige" will also offer a special menu exclusive to the event.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 2026
Beniotome Shuzo Autumn Festival (Kurume City)

At this autumn brewery event, visitors can enjoy special limited-edition liquors and foods that pair perfectly with drinks, alongside a rich variety of activities including brewery tours, workshops, and raffle lotteries. You can also enjoy live violin and piano performances by professional musicians.

Dates: Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 2026

Food & Gourmet Events

Mojiko Banana Fair 2026

A wide variety of banana delicacies and related products arrive at the Sakaemachi Gintengai shopping arcade in Mojiko, the birthplace of street banana auctioning (banana no tatakiuri)! Visitors can enjoy tasting and comparing different treats while exploring the history and culture of bananas.

Dates: Sunday, November 1 – Sunday, November 15, 2026
Oyster Hut in Bayside (Fukuoka City)

The oyster season has finally arrived! At the "Oyster Hut," a classic winter tradition at Bayside, you can savor plump, succulent oysters while taking in the pleasant sea breeze. It is also an ideal spot for year-end parties as well as welcome and farewell gatherings.

Dates: Saturday, November 7, 2026 – Monday (National Holiday), March 22, 2027
Fukuchi Find Festival: Fukuchi Sweets Grand Tea Gathering (Fukuchi Town)

Over 40 famous confectionery shops from both inside and outside the prefecture gather together, bringing their prized signature creations! There are also hands-on workshops to enjoy, including tea ceremony experiences using local Agano ware ceramics and pottery making on a potter's wheel.

Dates: Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, 2026
Itoshima Sawara Fair 2026 (Itoshima City)

To allow visitors to enjoy fresh sawara (Japanese Spanish mackerel) from Itoshima, a total of 20 establishments, mainly in Itoshima City, are serving a wide variety of sawara dishes. During the fair, you can also purchase premium fresh sawara (Tokusen Hon-sawara) at the local direct sales market "JF Itoshima Shima no Shiki" in Itoshima City.

Dates: Saturday, November 14 – Sunday, December 13, 2026
2026 Stationmasters' Local Curry Grand Election (Kitakyushu City)

From among the top-recommended curries submitted by JR Kyushu stationmasters, 13 selections that passed the preliminaries have advanced to the finals! General visitors will taste the entries, and the winner will be determined by their votes. Be sure to find your favorite curry and cast your vote!

Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026