The “Fujisaki Hachimangu Grand Autumn Festival,” a major autumn event that the people of Kumamoto eagerly await. This festival, boasting a history of a thousand years, is the largest in Kumamoto Prefecture and is bustling with many worshippers every year.
What is the Fujisaki Hachimangu Grand Autumn Festival?
The “Fujisaki Hachimangu Grand Autumn Festival” is the annual festival of Fujisaki Hachimangu Shrine, located in Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, and is held every September. It was once called “Hojoe” and was held as a Buddhist event, but after the separation of Shinto and Buddhism in the Meiji era, it is now held as a Shinto ritual while retaining some of its vestiges.
Various Shinto rituals and events are held during the festival period, but the highlight is the “Jinkō Gyoretsu (Zuibyo Gyoretsu) (Divine Procession/Retinue Procession)” held on the final day. People called “Zuibyo” wearing brightly colored costumes and brave “Kazariuma (Decorated Horses)” parade through the city, greatly enlivening the festival.
Event Details
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Fujisaki Hachimangu Shrine [Map] |
| Dates | Friday, September 13th to Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 |
| Phone Number | 096-343-1543 (Fujisaki Hachimangu Shrine) |
| Address | 3-1 Igawabuchi-cho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City |
| Access | [Car] Approximately 20 minutes from Kumamoto IC or Mashiki Kumamoto Airport IC<br>[Public Transportation] 15 minutes by tram bound for Kengun-machi from the Kumamoto Ekimae tram stop, a 2-minute walk from JR Kumamoto Station, get off at Suidocho tram stop and walk for 15 minutes |
| Parking | None |
Highlights of the Festival
- Jinkō Gyoretsu (Zuibyo Gyoretsu) (Divine Procession/Retinue Procession): The sight of the Zuibyo in gorgeous costumes and the brave decorated horses parading through the city is a masterpiece. It is a major event that decorates the climax of the festival.
- Kazariuma (Decorated Horses): A seasonal tradition that colors Kumamoto’s autumn festivals. You will be fascinated by the gorgeous decorations on the horses’ backs and the riders’ splendid horsemanship.
- Food Stalls: During the period, many food stalls line the shrine grounds and the surrounding area, further enhancing the festival atmosphere. You can enjoy various products such as local gourmet food and lucky charms.
- Shinto Rituals: Various Shinto rituals are performed at Fujisaki Hachimangu Shrine during the period. The rituals performed in a solemn atmosphere impress visitors.
Points to Enjoy the Fujisaki Hachimangu Grand Autumn Festival
- Go with plenty of time: The final day, when the Divine Procession is held, is expected to be very crowded. Go with plenty of time and secure your viewing spot early.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Comfortable shoes are recommended when strolling around the shrine grounds and the surrounding area.
- Take measures against heatstroke: Even in September, there are still hot days. Don’t forget to take measures against heatstroke, such as frequent hydration and wearing a hat.
The “Fujisaki Hachimangu Grand Autumn Festival” is a special festival for the people of Kumamoto. Please take this opportunity to visit and feel the tradition and enthusiasm.
※ Please check the official website for the latest information.