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UPCOMINGFREE ENTRYMatsuri· Annual
Hakata Gion Yamakasa
博多祇園山笠
Fukuoka · Kyushu
A major festival in Fukuoka city spanning two intense weeks, held for over 750 years to pray for protection against epidemics and illness. Similar in spirit to Kyoto's Gion Matsuri.
- Dates
- July 1–15, 2027
- Start time
- 4:59
- Location
- Fukuoka · Kyushu
- Nearest station
- Gion Station (Kūkō line) · 6 min walk (Kushida-Jinja-mae Stn · 2 min)
- Crowd level
- National attendance
- Entry
- Free entry
- Official site
- hakatayamakasa.com
Happens every year
What to expect
Feel the adrenaline as teams of men in traditional happi coats race through the streets of Hakata, carrying massive, ornately decorated floats called kazariyama. The air is filled with shouts and the rhythmic beat of taiko drums.
Best viewing tips
For the best view, position yourself along the Kushida Shrine route during the early morning Oiyama race on July 15. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant floats and the spirited crowd.
How to get there
From Hakata Station · ~12 min by train
Your turn
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