Karatsu Kunchi
MatsuriKyushu(Saga)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Karatsu Shrine and Karatsu City center streets
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Crowded
Photos
Saga's grand autumn festival featuring 14 massive lacquered floats.
Karatsu Kunchi is a grand autumn festival at Karatsu Shrine, featuring 14 magnificent hikiyama floats shaped like samurai helmets, sea bream, dragons, lions, and other motifs. The floats, made of lacquered paper and wood, are designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties. The highlight is November 3 when all 14 floats are pulled along the sandy beach at Nishi-no-Hama, creating a dramatic scene.
At a Glance
- Type
- Matsuri
- Dates
- 2026-11-02 – 2026-11-04
- Venue
- Karatsu Shrine and Karatsu City center streets
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Crowded
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Karatsu Kunchi take place?
Karatsu Kunchi takes place from 2026-11-02 to 2026-11-04.
Where is Karatsu Kunchi held?
Karatsu Kunchi is held at Karatsu Shrine and Karatsu City center streets in Saga, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Karatsu Kunchi?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.karatsu-kankou.jp/feature/karatsukunchi/.
What is the current status of Karatsu Kunchi?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
Is Karatsu Kunchi free to attend?
Yes, Karatsu Kunchi is free to attend.
What is the admission fee for Karatsu Kunchi?
The admission fee for Karatsu Kunchi is ¥0.
How crowded is Karatsu Kunchi?
The typical crowd level is high.
What are the highlights of Karatsu Kunchi?
Fourteen magnificent lacquered hikiyama floats in unique shapes; November 3 beach procession at Nishi-no-Hama; Evening float parade with torchlight on November 2
How do I get to Karatsu Kunchi?
JR Karatsu Station is a 10-minute walk from Karatsu Shrine. From Fukuoka, take the JR Chikuhi Line (about 75 minutes from Hakata via subway connection).
What should I know before attending Karatsu Kunchi?
November 3 (Culture Day) is the main day - the beach procession at Nishi-no-Hama starts around 10:30 AM. Visit the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall next to Karatsu Shrine to see the floats year-round. The city is known for Karatsu-yaki pottery, which makes a great souvenir.
Highlights
Fourteen magnificent lacquered hikiyama floats in unique shapes; November 3 beach procession at Nishi-no-Hama; Evening float parade with torchlight on November 2
Access
JR Karatsu Station is a 10-minute walk from Karatsu Shrine. From Fukuoka, take the JR Chikuhi Line (about 75 minutes from Hakata via subway connection).
Tips for Visitors
November 3 (Culture Day) is the main day - the beach procession at Nishi-no-Hama starts around 10:30 AM. Visit the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall next to Karatsu Shrine to see the floats year-round. The city is known for Karatsu-yaki pottery, which makes a great souvenir.
Location
📍 Karatsu Shrine and Karatsu City center streets