The yKamigawa Yamakasa Festival in Hakata, Kyushu: Witness the Strength and Beauty of Fukuoka’s Men

The “Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival” originated in 1241 during the Kamakura period, when an epidemic was raging through the Hakata area, causing widespread disaster. The founding priest of Jotenji Temple set up an altar to pray for the dispelling of the plague, and the tradition has continued to this day, evolving into the grand and splendid Yamakasa Festival we see now. The main events take place at Kushida Shrine, which enshrines the guardian deity of the Hakata region and serves as a spiritual hub for locals. At Kushida Shrine, you can also see the “yamakasa” floats on permanent display throughout the year. These floats showcase exquisite craftsmanship such as Hakata dolls and Hakata-ori textiles, and are entirely constructed without a single nail—magnificent, spectacular, and radiating cultural beauty.

The yamakasa float procession marks the beginning of Hakata’s summer. On the first day of the Gion Yamakasa Festival, elaborately decorated display floats are set up all over the city for visitors to admire. Then, each day features different events, including sand purification rituals, prayer ceremonies, mountain worship, the Oiyama race, and practice runs. The climax of the festival is the Oiyama race on July 15, where sweat-drenched men push and pull the floats, racing down the streets and executing sharp turns. The incredible teamwork and synchronized turning 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 various districts offer a variety of specialties and promotional activities. In the sweltering summer heat, watching the Gion Yamakasa Festival not only allows you to experience the warmth and passion of the people of Hakata, but also lets you appreciate the essence of traditional Hakata crafts and enjoy shopping promotions. Travelers looking to experience a Japanese summer festival are advised to plan ahead.

Hakata yKamigawa Yamakasa
Event Dates: July 1 to 15
Event Location: 1-41, Kamikawabatacho, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Transportation: About a 5-minute walk from yKamigawa Station on the subway
Website: www.cocoj.jp/~yamakasa/


Hakata yKamigawa Yamakasa


(Video Source / YouTube)

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