Ōkunitama Shrine Autumn Festival/Chestnut Festival

The Ōkunitama Shrine Autumn Festival, also known as the Chestnut Festival (Kuri Matsuri), is a historic autumn celebration held at Ōkunitama Shrine in Fuchu, Tokyo. The festival traces its origins to the establishment of the shrine's traditional Daidai Kagura performances in 1737 and has continued as an important part of the area's cultural heritage.

The festival became known as the Chestnut Festival during the Edo period because the Musashino region was known for producing high-quality chestnuts. Chestnuts were valued as an important preserved food and were also presented to the Tokugawa family. The chestnut harvest season coincided with the period of traditional kagura performances, eventually giving the celebration its distinctive name.

One of the festival's most memorable features is the display of approximately 260 paper lanterns throughout the shrine grounds. As evening approaches, the illuminated lanterns create a peaceful and atmospheric setting around the historic shrine. Visitors can also enjoy traditional kagura and festival music while exploring the seasonal celebration and chestnut stalls.

Held annually on September 27 and 28, with the 27th traditionally serving as the evening festival and the 28th as the main festival, the event offers visitors an opportunity to experience Japanese religious traditions, local history, autumn culture, and the atmosphere of a traditional shrine festival in Fuchu.

• Experience Japanese tradition: Discover a historic festival rooted in centuries-old shrine traditions and autumn customs.

• Enjoy the beautiful lantern display: Around 260 paper lanterns illuminate the shrine grounds, creating a memorable atmosphere after sunset.

• Watch traditional performances: Experience kagura and traditional Japanese music associated with the festival.

• Discover the chestnut connection: Learn why the festival became known as Kuri Matsuri and its connection with the historic chestnut-growing culture of the Musashino region.

• Enjoy an authentic autumn evening: The combination of shrine surroundings, lanterns, performances, and seasonal atmosphere makes it a wonderful cultural experience for visitors and families.