Japan's Oktoberfest obsession

I feel like Japan hasn't ever needed much encouragement to embrace a good food and drink festival, so perhaps it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that Oktoberfest has become a pretty big deal here.

I got to experience a little of it myself over the weekend at the Niigata Oktoberfest (held a little early in September!), and while I can't say I was expecting Germany in the middle of Niigata City, there was certainly plenty of beer, food, music, and a fun atmosphere.

This event has been running for 10 years now, and it doesn't just incorporate German beers. There was a good chance to try a wide range of local craft beers and get a taste of Niigata's beer culture, and as someone who really appreciates all things regionally sourced I thought it was super fun!

Does your city or prefecture host Oktoberfest events?