Hakata Gion Yamakasa
MatsuriKyushu(Fukuoka)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowded
Photos
Fukuoka'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.
At a Glance
- Type
- Matsuri
- Dates
- 2026-07-01 – 2026-07-15
- Venue
- Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
- Status
- Ended
- Crowd Level
- Extremely crowded
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I confirm the official status of Hakata Gion Yamakasa?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.hakatayamakasa.com/.
What is the current status of Hakata Gion Yamakasa?
The current listing status is ended. Last checked: 2026-03-10.
How crowded is Hakata Gion Yamakasa?
The typical crowd level is extreme.
What are the highlights of Hakata Gion Yamakasa?
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
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).
Location
📍 Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
