Karatsu Kunchi: Karatsu's Hikiyama Festival with 400 Years of History

Karatsu Kunchi: One of Kyushu's Three Great Festivals with 400 Years of History

"Karatsu Kunchi (Karatsu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival)" held at "Karatsu Shrine" in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, annually on November 2–4, is one of "Kyushu's Three Great Festivals" alongside Hakata Gion Yamakasa and Nagasaki Kunchi. The current format began in 1819 (Bunsei 2), also registered as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

14 Hikiyama Festival Floats

The stars of Karatsu Kunchi are the 14 gorgeous "hikiyama" (festival floats) owned by each neighborhood. The giant lacquered hikiyama reaching approximately 7 meters in height and 2–3 tons in weight are themed on helmets, sea bream, lions, phoenix, flying dragons, red lions, and treasure ships.

Festival Schedule

At the "Yoi Hikiyama" on November 2, 14 hikiyama parade through the nighttime Karatsu streets illuminated by lanterns. November 3's "Otabisho Shinko" is the biggest highlight, with the portable shrine and hikiyama all together parading from Karatsu Shrine to the otabisho (temporary resting place).

Hikiyama Exhibition Facility

At the "Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Exhibition Hall (Hikiyama Storage)" all 14 hikiyama can be viewed up close even on ordinary days (paid).

Access

Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR "Karatsu Station." During the festival period, traffic restrictions are in place, so public transportation use is recommended.