Nagasaki Kunchi: A Dedication Festival of Nagasaki Suwa Shrine with Dragon Dances and Snake Dances

Nagasaki Kunchi: Nagasaki's Autumn Festival Where Foreign Cultures Are Fused

"Nagasaki Kunchi" held at Nagasaki City's "Suwa Shrine" annually on October 7–9 is a historic autumn festival continuing since 1634. One of "Kyushu's Three Great Festivals" alongside Hakata Gion Yamakasa and Karatsu Kunchi, also registered as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Characteristics of Performances (Dashimono)

The greatest characteristic of Nagasaki Kunchi is "dashimono (performances)" incorporating foreign culture from China, the Netherlands, and others. Various neighborhoods create and dedicate their own performances including "dragon dance (jya-odori, Chinese culture)," "snake dance," "nanban ship (Portuguese and Spanish ships)," "oranda manzai (Dutch manzai)," and "vermilion seal ships."

Stages of Dedicated Performances

Performances are dedicated at "niwa (garden)" stages at various locations throughout the city including Suwa Shrine, Kankodori, and Kokaido-mae Park. The "Kocco de Sho (Daiba-yama)" where dancers spin intensely and the dynamic movements of dragon dances are particularly popular.

Tips for Viewing

Since Nagasaki Kunchi has many venues, confirming performance schedules in advance and planning a viewing plan is recommended. Inn and hotel reservations within the city need to be made early.

Access

Access to Suwa Shrine from JR "Nagasaki Station" by foot or streetcar. Many tourists gather during the festival period.