Hakata Gion Yamakasa
MatsuriKyushu(Fukuoka)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowdedKyushu(Fukuoka)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
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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.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa takes place from 2026-07-01 to 2026-07-15.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is held at Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka in Fukuoka, Japan.
Yes, Hakata Gion Yamakasa is free to attend.
The admission fee for Hakata Gion Yamakasa is ¥0.
The crowd level at Hakata Gion Yamakasa is typically extreme.
Yes, Hakata Gion Yamakasa is held annually.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a matsuri festival in Japan.
Highlights of Hakata Gion Yamakasa include: 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.
Tips for Hakata Gion Yamakasa: 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)..
Hakata Gion Yamakasa welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Hakata Gion Yamakasa: 5-minute walk from Hakata Station or Nakasu-Kawabata Station (Fukuoka City Subway). Kushida Shrine is the main venue for the Oiyama race..
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: 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)..
Photography is generally welcome at Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Check specific rules at the venue.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Hakata Gion Yamakasa typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 5-minute walk from Hakata Station or Nakasu-Kawabata Station (Fukuoka City Subway). Kushida Shrine is the main venue for the Oiyama race..
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
5-minute walk from Hakata Station or Nakasu-Kawabata Station (Fukuoka City Subway). Kushida Shrine is the main venue for the Oiyama race.
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).
📍 Kushida Shrine and Hakata district, Fukuoka