Every summer, the city of Fukuoka in Japan’s Kyushu region is filled with the joyful atmosphere of festivals, and the most famous of them all is the “Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival,” held from July 1 to 15 each year. During the festival, aside from viewing the yamakasa floats, the most thrilling highlight is the oiyama (chase of the floats), where 26 men wearing fundoshi (traditional loincloths) carry yamakasa floats weighing around one ton through the streets of Hakata at full speed. The event is both exhilarating and wild, showcasing the strength and beauty of Fukuoka’s men.
The yamakasa float procession kicks off Fukuoka’s summer
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival originated in 1241 during the Kamakura period when an epidemic swept through the Hakata area, causing widespread devastation. The founding monk of Jotenji Temple set up an altar to pray for the eradication of the plague, and this tradition has continued to this day, evolving into the grand and splendid Yamakasa Festival we see now. The main venue of the festival is Kushida Shrine, which enshrines the guardian deity of the Hakata region and serves as a spiritual hub for locals. At Kushida Shrine, the yamakasa floats are on permanent display throughout the year. Crafted with exquisite artistry such as Hakata doll-making and Hakata-ori weaving, the floats are assembled without using a single nail. They are not only stunningly beautiful but also radiate cultural elegance. Read more: Underground Malls That Are a Shopper’s Delight (Provided by Tripass Attractions)
The yamakasa float procession ushers in Hakata’s summer. On the first day of the Gion Yamakasa Festival, elaborately decorated display floats are set up across the city for visitors to admire. Then, each day features different events including sand purification rituals, prayer ceremonies, mountain worship, the oiyama chase, and sprint practices. The climax of the festival is the oiyama on July 15, when sweating men push and pull the floats as they dash through the streets and execute sharp turns. The synchronized, skillful cornering techniques of the entire community leave spectators absolutely thrilled.
During the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival, to match the festive atmosphere, shops and vendors in Hakata’s neighborhoods offer a variety of local specialties and promotional activities. In the sweltering summer heat, watching the Gion Yamakasa Festival allows you not only to experience the warmth of the people of Hakata but also to appreciate the essence of traditional Hakata crafts and enjoy shopping promotions. Those looking to experience a Japanese summer festival are encouraged to plan ahead.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa
Event Dates: July 1 to 15
Venue: 1-41, Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Access: Approximately a 5-minute walk from Yahuoku! Dome Station on the subway
Website: www.cocoj.jp/~yamakasa/
Hakata Gion Yamakasa
(Video source: Youtube)
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