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An Enchanting Autumn Experience in Kumamoto

Kumamoto is set to transform into a wondrous backdrop this autumn as it hosts its annual event, the ‘Autumn Leaf Illuminations – Higo Akari’ at the Higo Hosokawa Garden. Visitors can delight in a magical display of illuminated foliage and traditional bamboo lights, creating a picturesque setting for all to enjoy. The event will take place from November 22nd to November 30th, 2025, with unique features that celebrate Kumamoto’s history and culture.

Event Overview

• - Dates: November 22 (Saturday) - November 30 (Sunday)
• - Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM (Last Entry at 7:30 PM)
• - Entry Fee: 300 yen (free for preschool children)
• - Location: Higo Hosokawa Garden, 1-1-22 Mejirodai, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo

The garden offers a serene evening experience, beautifully illuminated against the backdrop of vibrant autumn leaves. Guests are urged to use public transportation, as parking is not available on-site.

What to Expect

The Higo Hosokawa Garden features a classic Japanese landscape design that harmonizes with its natural ice pond, allowing for a stunning reflection of the colorful leaves and traditional snow-hanging decorations in the water. Guests will wander through a one-way path, taking in the breathtaking views created by local lighting artist, CHIKAKEN. This installation connects people with nature, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere with warm light amidst the crisp fall air.

Special Events During the Illumination Period

Kumamoto Prefecture Tourist Information Display

Celebrate the 15th anniversary of Kumamon by visiting the tourist information booth that showcases the exciting variations and features of Kumamoto’s culture.

Culture Exhibition: The Time of Hosokawa

Explore the rich cultural heritage of the Hosokawa family with a panel exhibition telling stories linked to Kumamoto’s historical resources. The first 900 visitors will receive a special commemorative pen to take home as a memento.

Yamaga Lantern Dance and Display

Experience a part of Kumamoto’s cultural festivities with the Yamaga Lantern Festival dance, held over two days (November 22-23) featuring traditional performances and local sweet treats.

• - Dance Showtimes: 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM at the West Gate Square.
• - Lantern Exhibition: Located in the Matsusho Hall, showcasing Yamaga’s unique crafts.

Volunteer Guided Tours

Gain insights into the garden’s history from knowledgeable volunteer guides. Tours will take place on November 22nd and November 29th starting at 2:00 PM, lasting approximately 30 minutes. Sign-ups are free but limited to about 10 participants, first-come first-served.

Other Nearby Events

Join events at the Eisei Bunko Museum, where the autumn exhibition 'The Essence of Modern Japanese Painting' runs from October 4 to November 30, 2025. Entry is also available until 4:00 PM during exhibition hours.

Bamboo Light Display at the Soseki Museum

In solidarity with Kumamoto’s recovery efforts and to express gratitude for the support received post-earthquake, a bamboo light display will be featured at the Soseki Memorial Museum in Shinjuku from December 3 to December 26, 2025. This exhibition pays tribute to Natsume Soseki, offering an insight into the cultural connection between Kumamoto and Shinjuku. The display will showcase bamboo light objects themed after Kumamon’s 15th anniversary logo and Soseki motifs.

• - Location: Soseki Memorial Museum Garden, 7 Waseda Minami-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

This autumn, experience the beauty of Kumamoto like never before. The Autumn Leaf Illuminations and related events are more than just a celebration of nature’s colors – they encapsulate the spirit of community, culture, and resilience of Kumamoto.