Hakata Gion Yamakasa
MatsuriKyushu(Fukuoka)
Annual eventDates
2026-07-01 — 2026-07-15
Venue
Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowdedFukuoka's high-energy festival where teams race through the streets carrying massive floats.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a 770-year-old festival where teams of men in traditional loincloths race through the streets of Hakata carrying massive one-ton floats (kakiyama). The climactic Oiyama race on July 15 starts at 4:59 AM, with seven teams sprinting a 5 km course through the city. The festival also features spectacular stationary display floats (kazariyama) throughout the Hakata district.
Highlights
Oiyama dawn race on July 15 starting at 4:59 AM; One-ton kakiyama floats carried at full sprint through the streets; Elaborate stationary kazariyama display floats throughout Hakata
Access
5-minute walk from Hakata Station or Nakasu-Kawabata Station (Fukuoka City Subway). Kushida Shrine is the main venue for the Oiyama race.
Tips for Visitors
For the Oiyama on July 15, arrive by 3 AM to secure a viewing spot near Kushida Shrine. The race starts at 4:59 AM sharp. Kazariyama display floats can be viewed for free throughout the festival period. The city is very lively during evening practice runs (July 10-14).