Chirping Insects and the Historic Merchant Town

About this event

'Chirping Insects and the Historic Merchant Town' is a 10-day event that brings the Edo-period commoners' custom of 'listening to singing insects' (mushikiki) into modern times, celebrating autumn and insect songs in the town of Itami. Held across the entire Itami Gocho area, including the Itami City Museum of Art, History and Culture and the Former Okada Residence, approximately 3,000 bell-ring crickets (suzumushi) and pine crickets (matsumushi) are placed in bamboo cages under shop eaves, around street trees, and inside facilities. Strolling through the atmospheric sake brewery townscape while listening closely to evocative insect songs offers a unique outing experience found nowhere else. Songs of chirping insects like bell-ring crickets and katydids (kirigirisu) resonate across shops, public facilities, squares, and tree-lined streets, complemented by numerous related events such as live music performances and hands-on craft activities. From casual drop-in spots to niche events, everyone can discover autumn delights. Ideal for families with small children, experiencing the sounds of autumn insects not commonly seen up close serves as an excellent nature and food-education experience that sparks children's curiosity. Throughout the period, many workshops including stamp rallies, bamboo cage making, and insect observation sessions are organized for children. A highly popular route involves joining workshops around the museum during the daytime and taking an evening walk while listening to insect sounds. With many flat stone-paved paths accessible for strollers, families with small children can enjoy exploring with peace of mind.

Venue

Itami City Museum of Art, History and Culture

2-5-20 Miyanomae, Itami, Hyogo 664-0895