The Akimatsuri in Mogi das Cruzes, one of the largest Japanese events in Brazil, is coming to an end. But don’t be discouraged, because there’s still time to immerse yourself in Japanese culture! With just one more weekend of programming, the 2026 Autumn Festival promises to bring its 39th edition to a spectacular close, bringing together cuisine, spirituality, and traditional performances.
The event will take place at the Bunkyo Sports Center, a venue accessible by public transportation. Find out now why you can’t miss the closing ceremony of Akimatsuri 2026!
Akimatsuri Autumn Festival: From Agricultural Celebration to Intangible Heritage
The origins of the Akimatsuri in Mogi das Cruzes date back to 1986. What is now a mega-event began humbly: a group of farmers from the Japanese community gathered voluntarily to give thanks for the harvest and celebrate the arrival of autumn.
Over four decades, the festival has grown and become part of the local identity. So much so that, this year, the City Government officially designated Akimatsuri as an Intangible Cultural Asset of Mogi das Cruzes! The title recognizes the festival as a guardian of the memory of the immigrants who contributed to the city’s development.
What to expect from Akimatsuri 2026?
In 2025, the event broke attendance records by welcoming 142,000 visitors, and this year, the celebration returns even bigger. One of the new features is the “Japanese Cultural Village, “ a unique space with traditional architecture and crafts that transports visitors directly to Japan.
The food court features everything from classics like yakisoba and sushi to regional dishes that highlight the abundance typical of harvest celebrations. In addition, the public can enjoy performances by:
- Taikô ( Japanese drums);
- Traditional dances with fans and umbrellas;
- Martial arts, such as karate and taekwondo;
- Tooro Nagashi (a ceremony with floating lanterns in honor of ancestors).
Don’t wait until the last minute! The 2026 Autumn Festival ends this Sunday and is the perfect getaway to experience authentic Japan right here in Greater São Paulo.
📍 Bunkyo Sports Center: Avenida Japão, 5919 – Porteira Preta, Mogi das Cruzes/SP | Click here for directions
📅 April 18 and 19 | Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
🎟️ Starting at R$ 15 (half-price)
🇯🇵 More information at akimatsuri.com.br and @akimatsuri_mogi
