Every seasonal event in Tokomizu has to do with water. Here is what to see in each season.
Autumn (September–November)
Mornings and evenings grow cooler, and red spider lilies and autumn grasses bloom along the canals. On clear mornings, the autumn sky is reflected on the surface of Tenkyōgen.
- The Draining (October): once a year, the water is let out of the canals section by section so that they can be cleaned. It is the only day when you can walk on the dry bed of a canal.
- The Canal Festival (31 October): a fair of canal food-boats and floating lanterns along the second ring canal in Nakamachi.
- The Dangai walking trail: the trees on the cliff turn colour from October to November.
Winter (December–February)
The canals on the land freeze and can be walked on as ice roads. Household goldfish spend the winter in wintering jars by the window. Tenkyōgen does not freeze; on winter mornings, steam rises from the water (keárashi).
Spring (March–May)
On the day of the Great Welling, when Mount Mizufuji sends its water highest, the goldfish in the wintering jars are returned to the canals (the Release). Rafts of cherry petals drift along the canals.
Summer (June–August)
In June, the flower basin in the bamboo grove on Tenkyōgen and the hydrangeas at Suika Saryō are at their best. Summer brings evening boat trips to enjoy the cool air, floating lanterns and canal fairs. On windless days, towering summer clouds are reflected in the water of Tenkyōgen.