As the days grow shorter and the evenings turn cooler, we often feel nostalgic for the lazy days of summer. In Japan, however, autumn is more than just a season — it’s a celebration of food, beauty, and activity. At the Fall Japan Market, we embrace all the delicious and beautiful traditions this season has to offer.
Here are some of the symbols of autumn in Japan that we can enjoy right here in Vancouver!
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Shokuyoku no Aki (食欲の秋): “The Season of Appetite”.
In Japan, autumn has been associated with abundant harvests and a return of healthy appetite after the hot summer. As the weather cools down, people naturally feel more energetic and eager to eat.
Autumn in Japan is also known for its rich variety of seasonal harvests, such as sweet potatoes, chestnuts, pumpkins, matsutake mushrooms, persimmons, grapes, and more.
At the Fall Japan Market we have a lineup of amazing food vendors who will stoke your appetite. Check out My Fun Little Cafe, and MATCHACHA JAPANESE DESSERTS.
Here are some ways you can enjoy Shokuyoku no Aki right here in BC!
- The UBC Apple Festival (mid-October) celebrates BC’s apple harvest.
- The Okanagan Wine Festival (October 3–12) is a toast to the region’s world-class wines.
- The Fall Food Festival (October 3 – November 9) offers a self-guided tasting tour through Vancouver’s best food spots.
Nitobe Memorial Garden
Koyo (紅葉): “The Colors of Autumn”.
The custom of enjoying autumn leaves — called momiji-gari (紅葉狩り) — has a history of over 1,000 years, beginning with the aristocrats of the Heian period who admired the leaves while composing poetry. By the 1600s (Edo period, about 400 years ago), the practice had spread to common people, becoming a popular leisure activity much like cherry blossom viewing in spring.
Today, koyo remains one of Japan’s most beloved seasonal traditions, drawing millions of people every year to famous spots across the country. It represents not only natural beauty, but also the Japanese appreciation for life’s fleeting moments.
Here are some stunning local spots to enjoy koyo in Vancouver:
- Stanley Park is breathtaking year-round, but its autumn colors are truly spectacular.
- Nitobe Memorial Garden at UBC offers a tranquil showcase of Japanese garden design in fall.
Supōtsu no Aki (スポーツの秋): “The Season of Sports”.
Autumn in Japan is also called Supōtsu no Aki, “the Season of Sports.” This tradition became popular after the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, which opened on October 10 — a date that later became a national holiday known as “Sports Day.” With its cool and comfortable weather, autumn is considered the perfect season for physical activity.
One unique Japanese tradition in autumn is the undokai (運動会), or school sports festival. Held in elementary, junior high, and even high schools. Children take part in races, relays, and group exercises, while families cheer them on. Sharing a homemade lunch with family during the festival is also a cherished part of the experience.
The undokai is not only about sports, but also about teamwork, community spirit, and celebrating the season together — making it a truly Japanese cultural event.
Here are some ways to get active in Vancouver this fall:
- The Terry Fox Run — a Canadian tradition held in early September by schools and communities nationwide.
- Cheer on the Vancouver Canucks as the NHL season kicks off in October at Rogers Arena.
- The Rubber Ducky 7-Mile or Half Marathon — a fun way to combine fitness with fall scenery.
Celebrate the Season
Whether through food, beauty, or activity, autumn in Japan is a season to be celebrated — and Vancouver offers plenty of ways to experience these traditions. We hope you’ll get out this fall to enjoy the spirit of Shokuyoku no Aki, Koyo, and Supōtsu no Aki.
