Brave “Fighting Yamakasa” and Gorgeous Floats Run Through the Town!
The “Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa,” held every year in July in the Kurosaki area of Yahatanishi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. This traditional festival, boasting a history of over 400 years, sweeps the town into a whirlwind of enthusiasm with its brave “Fighting Yamakasa” and gorgeous illuminated floats. This time, we will introduce the highlights, schedule, and access information of the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa.
What is the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa?
The Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa is a festival dedicated to Okadagu Shrine, the tutelary shrine of the Kurosaki area. The biggest highlight is, without a doubt, the competition of kaki yamakasa (floats carried on shoulders) called “Fighting Yamakasa.” The men from each town carry yamakasa weighing 1 ton and rush through the narrow alleys. The power and enthusiasm are sure to overwhelm viewers!
At night, the “Mawashi Neri,” in which the floats, beautifully decorated with illuminations, parade through the town, is held. The fantastic light and the sound of the Gion Festival music color the summer night beautifully.
Highlights of the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa
- Fighting Yamakasa: The sight of the men from each town carrying yamakasa and rushing through narrow alleys is overwhelming.
- Mawashi Neri: An illuminated float parades through the town, creating a fantastic scene.
- Doll Decorated Yamakasa: The elaborate doll-decorated yamakasa, set up in each town, are also worth seeing.
- Gion Festival Music: The sound of drums and conch shells enhances the festive atmosphere.
Schedule of the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa
- July 19 (Fri): Eve Festival, Yamakasa Carrying Start
- July 20 (Sat): Children’s Yamakasa, Yamakasa Parade
- July 21 (Sun): Yamakasa Grand Competition, Mawashi Neri
- July 22 (Mon): Post-Festival, Yamakasa Storing
Basic Information
| Item | Content |
| Duration | Friday, July 19 to Monday, July 22, 2024 |
| Venue | Kurosaki Ekimae Fureai Street and other locations in 2-chome, Kurosaki, Yahatanishi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture |
| Access | Right by JR Kurosaki Station |
| Phone Number | 093-642-5151 (Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa Preservation Society) |
| Parking | None |
Why not experience the heat and excitement of summer at the Kurosaki Gion Yamakasa?