The Secret of Hakata Gion Yamakasa🎉⛩️

(The most exciting summer festival in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture)

As a passionate fan of traditional Japanese festivals, I'd like to take you on a deeper dive into Kyushu's most iconic summer event— Hakata Gion Yamakasa ! With over 700 years of history, this festival is not only a source of pride for the people of Fukuoka but also a designated Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. Come experience this summer extravaganza filled with sweat and passion from my perspective! 🔥

The origin and history of the festival📜

• Origin legend : According to legend, it originated in the Kamakura period (about 770 years ago). In order to drive away the plague, the monk Shoichi Kokushi rode on a portable shrine and sprinkled water to purify the streets. This gradually evolved into today's Yamakasa Festival.
• Evolution : The original Yamakasa was just a simple wooden portable shrine, but it gradually developed into the towering and gorgeous "Decorated Yamakasa" and the running "Hiroyamakasa".
• Cultural Status : In 2016, Hakata Gion Yamakasa was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, becoming a globally recognized traditional event.

My thoughts: This passionate festival isn't just about entertainment, it carries the power of our ancestors' faith in praying for peace! 🙏

Two major types of Yamakasa 🏮

1. Kazariyamakasa

   • They can reach a height of over 10 meters and are richly decorated, presenting historical stories or legends.
   • They are permanently displayed in various places in the city for people to admire and pray for.
   • I think this is like a large-scale work of art. Each one is breathtakingly beautiful. It’s basically an outdoor museum! ✨

2. Kakiyamakasa

   • It is about 5 meters tall and weighs more than one ton.
   • Dozens of men carried it together and ran and raced on the streets.
   • I've watched the video and it's truly astonishing! The sense of speed and teamwork is truly thrilling. 💪

The highlight of the festival: Chasing Yamakasa🏃💨

• Time : Starts at 4:59 am on July 15th every year.
• Content Features : 7 regional (stream) teams take turns carrying the mountain hat and running at top speed along a designated route of approximately 5 kilometers.
• Atmosphere : The streets are packed with spectators, and everyone shouts "Oi-sa! Oi-sa!" (oi-sa), and the whole city is ignited by enthusiasm.
• I personally feel that this moment truly showcased the soul of Fukuoka. It’s hard to imagine how awe-inspiring it was without actually being there! 🔥

The atmosphere during the festival 🎆

• Time range : July 1st to 15th, a full two-week event.
• Activities : From the Yamakasa decoration display, running practice, to "Chasing the Mountain" (preview), etc., the climaxes come one after another.
• Citizen participation : Not only the participants, but also the spectators, merchants and residents are fully involved, and the streets are full of festive atmosphere.
• The editor feels that this atmosphere of universal participation makes people feel the cohesion of a city! 💖

Tips from the editor ✨

• Best time to watch : If you want to see the most stunning "Oui Yamakasa", remember to reserve a seat in advance and arrive at the scene in the early morning.
• Traffic reminder : The city center will be very crowded during the festival. It is recommended to take the subway or bus instead of driving.
• Photo Tip : The most clear and spectacular view of the Yamaga is during the day, while the lights at night add to the mysterious feeling. 📸

Summary 🏮❤️

The Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival is more than just a festival; it's a culmination of history, faith, and culture. Its passionate, solemn, and artistic beauty are truly captivating. If you ever visit Fukuoka, you absolutely must put this festival on your must-see list!