What’s On in Hiroshima, September 2025

September is here, and the summer heat is finally beginning to soften, and the evenings grow cooler. From fireworks and beer festivals to sake celebrations, world-class art exhibitions, live concerts, and exciting sports fixtures, there’s no shortage of things to do in and around Hiroshima this September.

The month kicks off with fireworks over the Seto Inland Sea, celebrates craftsmanship at the Kumano Brush Festival, and toasts the harvest at the Autumn Sake Festival. Samurai fire rituals blaze on Innoshima, while Oktoberfest, art exhibitions, and stadium showdowns keep the city buzzing.

Featured Event

Get Into Gotsu – September 21

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GetHiroshima brings the charm of Gōtsu in Shimane Prefecture to Hiroshima. From local culture to scenic beauty, this gathering invites one and all to dive into regional traditions, craft, and community life. A perfect escape just outside Hiroshima for those interested in off-the-beaten-path experiences.

September Festivals

Setoda Summer Festival and Fireworks – September 6

Bid farewell to summer on Ikuchijima Island with one of the last big fireworks shows of the season. The Setoda Summer Festival combines food stalls, lively performances, and dazzling fireworks over the Seto Inland Sea—a must-see if you’re traveling the Shimanami Kaido.

 

Tanomo Ritual on Miyajima – September 22

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Tanomo-san miyajima

 

Kumano Brush Festival – September 23

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The town of Kumano, known as Japan’s “brush capital,” celebrates its centuries-old craft with the Kumano Brush Festival. Watch artisans at work, join workshops, and admire beautifully handcrafted brushes used for calligraphy and makeup alike. A unique cultural experience rooted in Hiroshima’s traditional craftsmanship.

 

Murakami Suigun Fire Festival – September 28

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Back on the Shimanami Kaido take a step back into samurai history at the Murakami Suigun Fire Festival on Innoshima. This spectacular event re-creates naval battles of the Murakami pirates, complete with blazing torches, dynamic performances, and a dramatic atmosphere along the Seto Inland Sea.

 

Big Events in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Oktoberfest – September 12–23

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Hiroshima Oktoberfest poster

Celebrate German beer culture at Hiroshima Oktoberfest 2025. Expect imported brews, Bavarian sausages, live music, and a festive open-air beer garden atmosphere in the city center.

 

Autumn Sake Festival – September 23

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One of the most anticipated Hiroshima sake events of the year, this festival brings together breweries from across the region. Sip, savor, and learn from master brewers while enjoying local cuisine and lively entertainment.

Live Music and Entertainment in Hiroshima

DJ Emma 40th Anniversary Party – September 13

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House music pioneer DJ Emma celebrates 40 years behind the decks with a special one-night-only anniversary event in Hiroshima.

 

Sunday Sessions – September 14, 16:00–23:00, Bar Friendz

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A cozy community gathering with Hiroshima Station DJs Paul and Ante, drinks, and laid-back vibes.

 

Sting Live in Hiroshima – September 19

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Sting brings his global tour to Hiroshima, performing timeless hits and new tracks in a must-see concert event.

 

The Smashing Pumpkins – September 25

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Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins are back in Hiroshima with original members after a very long absence.

 

Wednesday Night Kagura – September 3, 10, 17, 24

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Experience Hiroshima’s traditional Kagura dance—a dramatic Shinto performance combining music, myth, and theatrical storytelling. A cultural highlight for both locals and visitors.

Hiroshima Art Exhibitions

Rey CamoySeptember 13 – November 3

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Dice - Rey Camoy (1969)

The Hiroshima Museum of Art presents the evocative works of Rey Camoy, celebrated for his haunting portraits and raw depictions of human emotion.

 

Unraveling the Mysteries of Ancient EgyptSeptember 20 – November 30

Exhibition info

Cartonnage and Mummy of the Priest Hor (Horus)" (detail), c. 760-558 BC, Brooklyn Museum Collection.

The Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum hosts treasures from the Brooklyn Museum, showcasing artifacts, mummies, and ancient Egyptian history brought to life.

Sport in Hiroshima This September

Hiroshima Toyo Carp Baseball at Mazda Stadium

Catch the Carp in action at Mazda Stadium for end of season games this month:

  • Sept 12–13 vs Chunichi Dragons
  • Sept 14–15 vs Yakult Swallows
  • Sept 17–18 vs Hanshin Tigers
  • Sept 23 vs Yomiuri Giants
  • Sept 28–29 vs Chunichi Dragons

Sanfrecce Hiroshima Soccer at Edion Peace Wing Stadium

J-League excitement continues with these fixtures:

  • Sept 7 vs Shonan Belmare, 18:30 kickoff
  • Sept 12 vs Kyoto Sanga, 19:00 kickoff
  • Sept 30 vs Avispa Fukuoka, 19:00 kickoff

Cinema in Hiroshima: September 2025

Love Song From Hiroshima

–– September 21
Event deEvent details.

Love Song From Hiroshima

A quirky film, by a local filmmaker gets a rare screening with English subtitles

Both Salon Cinema and Hacchoza screen classic films in Hiroshima throughout the month, giving movie fans the chance to enjoy timeless stories on the big screen for just ¥1,600.

Salon CinemaGood Will Hunting (1997)
From September 12

HacchozaLe Grand Bleu (1988)
From September 19

Salon CinemaCoffee and Cigarettes (2003)
From September 26


Find more local events here and have a great September!