Three autumn events in Fukushima worth a detour (Oct-Nov 2026)

Fukushima rarely gets a mention in autumn travel lists, but this October and November it has three events I'd happily build a weekend around.

Cosquin en Japon, Kawamata (Oct 10-12). Since 1975, this small town has hosted Japan's biggest festival of Andean and Argentine folklore music. 2026 is the 49th edition. Hundreds of amateur groups play short sets on two stages: the town's Central Community Hall and a "pena" stage upstairs in a local restaurant, where you can eat while you listen. Entry is free. Day one runs 13:00-21:00, day two 10:00-21:00 and day three 10:00-15:00. Buses go from Fukushima Station to Kawamata Town Hall.

SUSURU Ramen Fes, Koriyama (Oct 30 - Nov 3). Ten shops chosen by the ramen YouTuber SUSURU, in Kaiseizan Park's Frontier Plaza. Entry is free and you buy ramen tickets.

Taimatsu Akashi, Sukagawa (Sat Nov 14). This is one of the most dramatic fire festivals in Japan. During the day, teams carry huge torches through town like portable shrines. At about 18:30, around twenty of them, plus one giant torch, are lit on top of Goroyama in Midorigaoka Park, with taiko drumming before and after. Viewing is one way along a set route, tripods aren't allowed, and the summit can be closed when it gets crowded, so arrive early.

I found most of these on Eventory, a free events site a friend of mine built. The Fukushima festival page is here: https://eventory.one/top-events/jp/fukushima/festivals (and Cosquin: https://eventory.one/event/cosquin-in-japan-f62ab0fe). Check the official sites before you travel, because times can change.

• Stan