As the summer evening curtain falls, Yamaga City in Kumamoto Prefecture is enveloped in the golden glow of lanterns, transforming into a fantastical world. Held annually on August 15th and 16th, the “Yamaga Lantern Festival” is truly one of Kyushu’s premier summer traditions, weaving together evocative scenery and graceful dances.
Highlights of the Yamaga Lantern Festival
The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the “Thousand Lantern Dance.” Women in yukata, with golden lanterns lit upon their heads, gracefully dance to the melody of the “Yoheho-bushi,” drawing viewers into an ethereal world. The spectacle is so beautiful, it is as if it has emerged from a Heian-era picture scroll, captivating all who visit.
The sight of the soft light of the lanterns illuminating the historic and atmospheric townscape of the Toyosaki-kaido Road is also exceptional. Objects such as Japanese umbrellas and bamboo crafts are displayed, creating a dreamlike space as if time has stood still.
Origin and History of the Festival
The origin of the Yamaga Lantern Festival is said to be approximately 1300 years ago when Emperor Keiko visited Yamaga during his expedition to Kyushu and became lost in a dense fog. At that time, the local people guided the Emperor by lighting torches, which is considered the beginning of this festival.
Subsequently, people began to offer lights annually to enshrine the Emperor, and over time, these lights evolved into paper golden lanterns. Then, the “Yamaga Lantern Dance,” where women dance with golden lanterns on their heads, was born, developing into the present-day “Yamaga Lantern Festival.”
Access Information
Location: Yamaga, Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture, 861-0501, Japan
URL: https://yamaga-tanbou.jp/about/toromatsuri/
Contact: Yamaga Lantern Festival Executive Committee (Secretariat: Yamaga City Commerce and Tourism Division) TEL: 0968-43-1579
Access:
Approximately 60 minutes by car from JR Tamana Station
Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kikusi IC on the Kyushu Expressway, then walk from Yamaga Bus Center
Summary
The Yamaga Lantern Festival is a beautiful festival where history and tradition live on. The scenery created by the fantastical lantern light and the graceful dances provides visitors with inspiration and healing. This summer, why not visit Yamaga City and experience a moment that will remain in your heart?