The “Hakushu Festival Water Parade,” held every November in Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture. To commemorate the anniversary of the death of the poet Hakushu Kitahara (November 2nd), a fantastic water parade is held amidst the emotional scenery of the Yanagawa water town.
Highlights of the Water Parade
- Lights of the Donko Boats: About 130 donko boats, beautifully decorated with Hozuki lanterns and andon lights, slowly proceed along the nighttime river surface. The fantastic scene is as if you have wandered into a dream world.
- Scenery of the Water Town: Yanagawa is a place that once flourished as a castle town, and even now, canals run vertically and horizontally through the city. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery unique to the water town, such as the willows lined up along the river and historical buildings.
- Stage Events: Several temporary stages are set up along the parade route, and local performing arts and musical performances are presented. Various performances, such as the powerful rhythm of taiko drums, the delicate tone of the koto, and the harmony of choral singing, enhance the water parade.
- Fireworks: At the climax of the parade, about 1,000 fireworks are launched. The magnificent fireworks that color the night sky will be an unforgettable memory.
Event Information
| Item | Content |
| Venue | Hakushu Poetry Monument Park (boarding in the Okihata area) to Yanagawa Bridge (disembarkation around Mitsuhashira Shrine), Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture |
| Duration | November 1st (Fri) to 3rd (Sun/Holiday), 2024 |
| Access | About 10 minutes on foot from Nishitetsu “Yanagawa Station” |
| Phone Number | 0944-73-2145 ((General Incorporated Association) Yanagawa City Tourism Association) |
Points to Enjoy the Hakushu Festival Water Parade
- Boat Reservation: Boat rides for the parade require prior reservation. Reservations are accepted via the Internet, FAX, email, or by visiting the Yanagawa City Tourism Association directly.
- Viewing Spots: The parade can be viewed from anywhere along the river. In particular, bridges and the promenades along the canals are excellent spots where you can see the parade up close.
- Warm Clothing: Autumn nights can be cold. Be sure to dress warmly.
Conclusion
The Yanagawa “Hakushu Festival Water Parade” is a fantastic event that weaves together the beautiful scenery of the Yanagawa water town and the poetic sentiment of Hakushu Kitahara. Why not take this opportunity to visit Yanagawa and enjoy an autumn night?
Tourist Spots to Visit Together
- Hakushu Kitahara’s Birthplace and Memorial Museum: The birthplace of Hakushu Kitahara and a memorial museum introducing his works and life.
- Yanagawa River Descent: A boat ride on a donko boat to tour the canals of Yanagawa.
- Ohana: Ohana, the residence of the Yanagawa domain lord Tachibana, is a garden designated as a national scenic spot.