Hakata Gion Yamakasa

(Source : )

It is one of the festivals that takes place at Kushida shrine, situated in Hakata, Fukuoka. It takes place from July 1 to 15 each year. Having more than 700 years of history, over 1.5 millions people visit here from inside and outside of the country. During this period, the city is divided in blocks called "Nagare". The gorgeous "Yamakasa", carrying god, goes through the streets of the city. The highlight of this event is "Oiyama" that takes place on the last day. In Oiyama, each Yamakasa race against each other on the 5 km long street. Only men can carry yamakasa in this event. Therefore, it is also called "Men's festival" since women can't participate.

Highlight that is "Oiyama"

Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival begins with an event "Shimeoroshi" on July 1, in which everyone prays for the safety of the festival. Then the festival ends with "Oiyama" which is the highlight of this festival. Starting at 4:59 in the morning from Kushida shrine, men carry gorgeous Yamakasa decorated with dolls while running and racing against each other on a 5 km long street.

"Oiyama Narashi" is also interesting!

Since Oiyama starts from 4:59 early morning, it is hard to wake up so early to see it. If that's the case, we recommend you to come and see Oiyama Narashi. It is equivalent of a practice run of Oiyama. You can see the same thing, except that the course is shorter. Because it starts from 15:59, it is perfect for people who can't get up early.

Great "Shudan Yamamise"

Two days prior to Oiyama, there is another event that you shouldn't miss, which is "Shudan Yamamise" on July 13. In this event, all yamakasa are gathered and each of them starts parading one after another in 5 min interval. When the first yamakasa leaves, there are taiko drums and fireworks that signal its start. Because you can see all the great yamakasa, many visitors gather on this day.