When autumn arrives in Kobe, the streets of Nankinmachi Chinatown come alive with lanterns, music, and the sound of drums. The traditional Mid-Autumn Festival, one of the most cherished celebrations in Chinese culture, returns in 2025 from October 4th to 6th. Visitors can expect thrilling lion dance performances, the spectacular “Cai Qing” ritual where the lion leaps for greens symbolizing prosperity, and festive promotions at local restaurants. It is a time when the full moon, tradition, and Kobe’s vibrant Chinatown blend together, creating a unique cultural experience.
What is the Mid-Autumn Festival?
The Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, traditionally a time to admire the full moon and give thanks for the autumn harvest. In Kobe’s Nankinmachi, this cultural tradition has been celebrated every year with colorful events, transforming the area into a festive stage of lights, sounds, and flavors. In 2025, the festival runs for three days from October 4th (Sat) to October 6th (Mon).
A Mid-Autumn Festival tapestry displayed in Motomachi Shopping Street.
Spectacular Lion Dances and Cai Qing
The lion dance performance at Nankinmachi Square draws huge crowds.
Being playfully “bitten” on the head by the lion is believed to bring good luck.
The highlight of the festival is the lion dance at Nankinmachi Square. With pounding drums and clashing cymbals, the lions leap, spin, and bow, filling the square with energy. One of the most anticipated scenes is the Cai Qing ritual, where the lion stretches and jumps to grab leafy greens or red envelopes hung above storefronts. This act symbolizes “plucking prosperity” and draws cheers and applause from the crowd. Visitors also look forward to the tradition of having their heads gently “bitten” by the lion, believed to bring good fortune.
A lion dance “Cai Qing” scene, leaping up to snatch greens for prosperity.
Festive Food Specials
The Mid-Autumn Festival offers a variety of vibrant events in Nankinmachi.
Alongside the performances, the “Special Thanksgiving Fair” takes place across Nankinmachi. Restaurants offer exclusive festival menus and limited-time dishes at special prices. From steaming dumplings to sweet mooncakes, this is a perfect opportunity to enjoy Kobe Chinatown’s culinary delights while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Access and Tips
Nankinmachi is just a 5-minute walk from JR Motomachi Station and Hanshin Motomachi Station and easily accessible from Kobe Sannomiya. Daytime offers lively street performances and food stalls, while the evening brings a magical atmosphere with lanterns glowing across the square. Whether you come for the lion dance, the food, or the festive night lights, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a must-see autumn tradition in Kobe.
【Event Details】
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Event: Nankinmachi Mid-Autumn Festival
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Dates: October 4 (Sat) – October 6 (Mon), 2025
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Location: Nankinmachi Square & surrounding streets, Kobe
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Highlights: Lion dance, Cai Qing ritual, special menus at local restaurants
