Shinjuku in October 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals

October in Tokyo marks the transition from the lingering warmth of summer to the cooler days of autumn. This time of year sees an increase in events as the city starts to gear up for the end-of-year celebrations.

Shinjuku, one of the most bustling and vibrant areas in Japan, is famous for its vast entertainment districts, business centers, large department stores, and towering skyscrapers. It's also a major transportation hub, with Shinjuku Station being the busiest in the world.

In October, Shinjuku hosts numerous events that offer unique experiences. In this guide, we will introduce you to the highlights, essential information, event schedules, and access to each venue. Many events span several days, so feel free to join in at your leisure!

 Table of Contents
- Traditional Events in Shinjuku in October 2024
- Special Event You can Enjoy only in October
- Pop Culture Events in Shinjuku in October
- Art Events in Shinjuku in October
- Gourmet Events in Shinjuku in October 2024

Traditional Events in Shinjuku in October 2024

Shinjuku hosts several traditional events that are not to be missed. Here's a detailed look at two of the most exciting ones:

Ana-Hachimangu Shrine Yabusame Ritual (Takadanobaba)

Source: Official Website

Yabusame is a traditional Japanese martial art where archers shoot arrows at three targets while riding a galloping horse. Yabusame is believed to have a history of nearly 1,000 years and was practiced by warriors as part of their training. Despite facing several periods of decline, Yabusame has been revived and continues to captivate audiences with its intense and dynamic displays of skill.

Watching the horses race at full speed while the riders maintain their form and shoot arrows is breathtaking. It is also a chance to feel the spirit of "Bushido" (the way of the samurai) in action.

Please note that seating is not available, and spectators will need to stand during the event.

 <Information>  
- Date: Monday, October 14, 2024 (Health and Sports Day)  
- Access:  
  - Tokyo Metro Tozai Line: 8 minutes on foot from Waseda Station  
  - Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line: 10 minutes on foot from Nishi-Waseda Station 
  - Toei Bus (Route Gaku 02): 5 minutes on foot from "Babashita-cho" bus stop  
  - Note : Public transportation is recommended. Bicycles are not allowed.  
- Admission: Free  
- Website: https://www.anahachimanguu.jp/yabusame/#:~:text=%E7%A9%B4%E5%85%AB%E5%B9%A1%E5%AE%AE%E3%81%AE%E3%80%8C%E7%A5%9E%E4%BA%8B%E9%AB%98%E7%94%B0

Location of Ana-Hachimangu↓

Inarikio Shrine Ebisu Festival

Source: Shinjuku Convention & Visitor's

The Inarikio Shrine Ebisu Festival is famous for a type of pickled vegetable called "Bettara-zuke." Bettara-zuke is a pickled daikon, one of Tokyo's specialties. It started being sold at the Ebisu Festival following the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. Since then, it has been said that buying Bettara-zuke at the Ebisu Festival brings good fortune, drawing many people to the festival every year just for this pickled treat. The festival runs until 8 PM, but Bettara-zuke sales end as soon as they are sold out, so it’s recommended to visit early.

Additionally, the Ebisu Festival features the “Showa Era Exhibition,” which is another highlight. The Showa Era spanned from 1926 to 1989. At the 2023 exhibition, over 100 photos of the Shinjuku Station area from the latter half of the Showa period were displayed. The images reflect a warmer, more nostalgic atmosphere, quite different from the sleek modern-day Shinjuku, and offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

<Information>  
Dates: October 19 and 20 every year  
Access:  
- Oedo Line, Fukutoshin Line: Get off at Higashi-Shinjuku Station (A1 Exit), 3-minute walk  
- Seibu Shinjuku Line: Get off at Seibu Shinjuku Station (North Exit), 10-minute walk  
- Various Lines: Get off at Shinjuku Station (East Exit), 15-minute walk  
- Near the intersection of Kuyakusho-dori and Shokuan-dori (Oni-O Shrine Intersection)  
Entrance Fee: Free  

Special Event You can Enjoy only in October

Shinjuku Ward Festival

Source: Shinjuku City

The Great Shinjuku Festival, held from October 1 to October 31, is a series of events spread throughout Shinjuku. As one of the most exciting times to explore Shinjuku, you’ll come across a variety of activities and celebrations while walking around the city.

Among the many events, the one I recommend the most is the "Fureai Festa," one of the main attractions. In this event, eight different areas within the park host a variety of performances, including dance stages and international food fairs featuring cuisine from around the world and across Japan. It’s a chance to experience different cultures, making it a uniquely Shinjuku experience. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities, so it's a great event for those visiting with children.

<Information>  
Dates: October 1 to October 31  
Access & Entrance Fee: Varies by event, please check the website for details.  
Website: https://www.city.shinjuku.lg.jp/kanko/shinjuku_festival2023.html

Isetan Shinjuku Salon de Parfum

Source: Fashion Press

The "Salon de Parfum," held annually at the Isetan Shinjuku department store, is a "fragrance festival." The main venue on the 6th floor hosts many perfume brands, offering over 100 limited and exclusive items, as well as early-release products.

This event brings together such a wide variety of scents that anyone is sure to find a fragrance they love. It’s a must-attend event for perfume enthusiasts, as it provides a unique opportunity to discover unfamiliar brands that you might not come across in typical stores. For those new to perfumes or who don’t have a favorite brand, this event is an excellent introduction to the world of fragrances. 

In addition, there will be fragrance-themed talk events and seminars, making it a great opportunity to learn more about the world of scents and perfumes.

<Information>  
Dates: October 16 to October 29  
Access:  
- Shinjuku Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line), Isetan Exit (1-minute walk)  
- Shinjuku Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line), Shinjuku Sanchome Intersection Exit (2-minute walk)  
- Shinjuku Sanchome Station (Toei Shinjuku Line), Shinjuku Sanchome Exit (3-minute walk)  
Entrance Fee: Free  
Website: https://meeco.mistore.jp/contents/magazine/salondeparfum/index.html#:~:text=%E6%9C%AC%E9%A4%A86%E9%9A%8E%20%E5%82%AC%E4%BA%8B%E5%A0%B4%E3%81%A7%E5%B9%B4

Pop Culture Events in Shinjuku in October

“Disney Twisted Wonderland” OH MY CAFE

Source: Official website

OH MY CAFE is a special themed cafe where visitors can immerse themselves in the worlds of Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars. From September 6 to November 4, the cafe is collaborating with *Disney Twisted Wonderland*, offering exclusive menus and original merchandise. 

This cafe offers not only food but an atmosphere that lets you dive deep into your favorite stories. My personal recommendation is the *Stage in Playful Land Plate*, featuring a selection of street food from the Playful Land in the story. Imagining yourself eating in the story's world makes the experience even more delightful!

Another highlight is the limited-edition merchandise available only here. Bringing these items home will remind you of your visit, bringing back happy memories whenever you look at them.

 <Information>  
Date: September 6 to November 4  
Access: 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (Odakyu Line/JR), South Exit  
Admission: Free  
(Note: Food and drinks are charged separately.)  

Art Events in Shinjuku in October

The Glow of Canaletto and Venice

Source: Official website

Canaletto, a master of 18th-century landscape painting, is famous for his breathtaking depictions of Venice. *The Glow of Canaletto and Venice* exhibition showcases approximately 60 pieces, including works by Canaletto and other artists who painted Venice after his death. This collection spans from the 18th to the 20th century, allowing visitors to witness the evolution of painting techniques and Venice's changing cityscape. For art lovers, this exhibition is a must-see, with many iconic works displayed.

Additionally, the exhibition offers special merchandise, including unique collaborations between Canaletto, Monet, and Japan's beloved character *Hangyodon*. Be sure to visit the gift shop to explore these exclusive items.

<Information>  
Date: October 12 to December 28  
Admission: ¥1,700 (with advance reservation)  
Website: https://www.sompo-museum.org/exhibitions/2023/canaletto/

“Exploring Japan’s Landscapes Through Hida’s Woodcraft Culture” Exhibition

Source: PR TIMES

Hida, renowned for its woodworking techniques for nearly 1,300 years, has been instrumental in building many of the historical structures in places like Nara and Kyoto. The *Exploring Japan’s Landscapes Through Hida’s Woodcraft Culture* exhibition highlights the craftsmanship of Hida’s artisans (*Hidanotakumi*), as well as the cultural environment that nurtured these skills.

What makes this exhibition fascinating is how it offers various perspectives on Hida. You can admire photos of Hida’s scenery, taste dishes made from local ingredients, and purchase Hida’s specialties at the exhibition’s store. My top recommendation is the *Kumihimo Experience*, a traditional craft that also appeared in the hit film *Your Name*.

Spend a day immersed in the beauty of Hida’s culture at this exhibition!

<Information>  
Date: October 1 (Tue) – October 31 (Thu)  
Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closes at 3:00 PM on the final day)  
Access:  
- 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit (JR, private rail, subway)  
- Directly accessible from Exit B1 of Tochomae Station (Toei Oedo Line)  
Admission: Free  
Website: https://www.keioplaza.co.jp/event/hida2024#:~:text=%E9%A3%9B%E9%A8%A8%E3%81%AE%E6%9C%A8%E5%B7%A5%E6%96%87%E5%8C%96%E3%81%8B%E3%82%89%E8%A6%8B

Gourmet Events in Shinjuku in October 2024

Oktoberfest 2024 in Jingu Gaien

Source: FASHION PRESS

Oktoberfest, with over 200 years of history, is a traditional event originating in Munich, Germany, and is known as the world’s largest beer festival. You can experience a lively Oktoberfest in Jingu Gaien, rivaling the original.

One of the key attractions of this event is the authentic German atmosphere. The beer served is genuine German beer, and you can hear German drinking songs. Additionally, you can enjoy performances from a band that plays at the official Oktoberfest in Germany.

Another appealing aspect is the Halloween-themed food. You’ll find adorable treats inspired by ghosts and jack-o'-lanterns, so cute that you might hesitate to eat them.

<Information>  
Date: October 11 (Fri) – October 31 (Thu)  
- First day: 16:00 – 21:30 (Last order 21:00)  
- Other days: 11:00 – 21:30 (Last order 21:00)  
- Last entry at 20:30  
Access:  
- 10-minute walk from Gaienmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzomon Lines  
- 10-minute walk from Aoyama-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon and Oedo Lines  
- 5-minute walk from Shinanomachi Station on the JR Chuo-Sobu Line  
- 5-minute walk from Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station on the Toei Oedo Line  
Admission: 1,000 yen  
Website:https://www.oktober-fest.jp/

WILDBEACH Shinjuku

Source: Official Website

WILDBEACH Shinjuku is a rooftop bar located on the top of the Lumine Est Shinjuku shopping center. It offers a stylish, resort-like atmosphere where you can enjoy BBQ and meals. The pleasant weather in October, not too hot or cold, makes it perfect for outdoor dining.

The charm of WILDBEACH lies in its various areas, each with a slightly different vibe, so you can dine in a setting that matches your mood. For example, there’s an area themed in white and blue, and another designed with a glamping concept. I dined in the "Anniversary Sofa" section, where the warm tones of wood and soft lantern lights created a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

<Information>  
Access: 1-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station, Central East Exit or East Exit  
Admission: Free (Separate charges for food and drinks)  
Website:https://wildbeach.jp/shinjuku/

Dai Tsukemen Haku: Tsukemen Championship

Source:Official website

The Tsukemen Championship is one of the hottest events for tsukemen fans across Japan. A total of 40 famous tsukemen restaurants battle it out for the title of Japan's best tsukemen.

The restaurants participating in this event have all made it through fierce preliminary rounds, so you’re guaranteed to enjoy delicious tsukemen at every booth. With such a variety of unique flavors, trying out different bowls is highly recommended.

What makes this event even more exciting is that the winner is determined by votes from attendees. Your vote can influence the outcome, so why not cast your ballot and help decide the best tsukemen in Japan? I’ll be there too, cheering for my favorite spot!

<Information>  
Date: October 4 – October 31, 11:00 – 21:00  
Access:  
- 2-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station  
- 6-minute walk from JR Shin-Okubo Station  
- 15-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station  
Admission: Free (Tsukemen: 1,000 yen per bowl)  
Website: https://dai-tsukemen-haku.com/

BEER CAMP SPECIAL EDITION: DISCO JAM17

Source: PR TIMES

BEER CAMP SPECIAL EDITION takes over a floor of DISCO JAM17, offering a one-night-only disco event. With performances from 25 artists, ranging from legendary DJs to cutting-edge talents, you’ll experience a super disco session like no other.

The event's highlight is enjoying Japan's popular beer brand, Asahi Super Dry, while being immersed in the heat of the night.

The event spans three different floors, each offering unique experiences like views, live performances, night breezes, and buffets. To fully enjoy the event, I recommend exploring all three floors. My personal favorite is the stunning night view, overlooking Japan’s largest entertainment district.

<Information>  
Date: October 18, 19:00 – 24:00  
Access:  
- 1-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station  
- 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station on the Toei Oedo Line  
- 7-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station and various other lines  
- 8-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line  
Admission: Advance tickets 5,000 yen  
Website: https://www.hotelgroove.jp/jam17/topics/discojam17/#:~:text=BEER%20C