The Manazuru Autumn Festival is a vivid encounter with tradition and nature in the coastal town of Manazuru, Kanagawa. From late October through early November, the town shakes off its quiet demeanor, inviting visitors to experience a blend of ritual, community, and landscape that demands attention. The festival is more than an event; it’s a journey into the heart of Manazuru, where the rhythms of the ocean meet the patterns of the land.

Visitors begin their experience by stepping into streets flanked by old wooden houses, where paper lanterns sway with the breeze. The scent of roasted chestnuts and the sound of taiko drums cutting through sharp autumn air set the pace. But the heart of the festival lies at the foot of Manazuru’s hills, where age-old processions carry mikoshi (portable shrines) from the town into the forested slopes, gradually ascending toward the summit.

The route climbs roughly 150 meters in elevation over a distance of around 3 kilometers, following paths that twist beneath beech and oak trees, their leaves blazing in shades of amber and russet. The terrain balances between gentle inclines and stretches of uneven earth, requiring steady footing but accessible to most hikers with moderate fitness. Along the way, the forest feels alive—a breath held in anticipation, as if the trees themselves applaud the passage.

Reaching the mountain’s peak, the festival attendees gather for ritual offerings and music performances, framed by expansive views of Sagami Bay. The ocean breezes here are insistent, pushing and pulling like a living presence that tests resolve yet refreshes spirits. This moment captures the essence of the Manazuru Autumn Festival: an engagement with natural forces intertwined with cultural heritage.

Participants and visitors are encouraged to prepare practically. Solid hiking shoes with reliable grip are essential; rain gear may be necessary depending on weather, and carrying at least 1.5 liters of water is wise given the physical exertion and the crisp air that can mask dehydration. Early to mid-morning arrival is recommended to experience both the quiet before the crowds and the progression of festivities.

Local vendors offer seasonal treats like sweet potatoes and freshly brewed sake, grounding the event in the tastes of autumn. The festival’s energy peaks but never overwhelms, allowing visitors moments of quiet reflection punctuated by communal excitement.

Whether you’re a day hiker or a cultural adventurer, the Manazuru Autumn Festival offers a mix of sensory immersion and approachable challenge, rewarding those who engage with its pulse—not by conquering but by walking alongside a tradition fiercely itself.