A comprehensive introduction to Nagasaki Kunchi (Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture) 🎏⛩️

(A century-old festival that blends exotic customs with Japanese traditions)

Today, I'm taking you on a journey through Japan's most exotic festival— Nagasaki Kunchi ! This festival is not only a representative event for the city of Nagasaki, but also, because Nagasaki has long been an international trading port and boasts a unique multicultural background, the performances and atmosphere of this festival are completely different from other Japanese festivals. It combines the solemnity of native Japan with elements from foreign cultures like China and the Netherlands, making it a truly world-class cultural carnival! 🌏🎶

The origin and history of the festival📜

• Origin : The history of Nagasaki Kunchi dates back to 1634 (the beginning of the Edo period), when Nagasaki residents began holding this festival to express their gratitude and dedication to the guardian Suwa Shrine.
• Origin of the name : "Kunchi" means "nine days", because the festival was originally held on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month, and later changed to October 7th to 9th in the Gregorian calendar.
• Religious significance : The original ceremony mainly involved offering dances and performances to the gods to pray for a good harvest and prosperity of the city.
• Cultural Status : Listed as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan in 1979, it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

Editor's Thoughts: Nagasaki Kunchi is more than just a festival; it's like a "living history book," showcasing Nagasaki's history of international exchange right on the streets! 📖✨

The biggest feature of the festival🎭

1. Offering Dance

• Each year, different towns (districts) take turns to perform the festival. There are 59 towns in total, with approximately 7 to 8 participating each year.
• There is a wide variety of performances, including dance, music, traditional drama and performances using large boat-shaped props.
• I think this is the "Nagasaki Limited Stage", which always brings surprises! 🎶

2. Dragon Dance

• The dragon dance is a performance influenced by Chinese culture, in which a 20-meter-long colorful dragon dances flexibly to the sound of drums and gongs.
• It symbolizes exorcising evil and praying for blessings. The scene is shocking and lively.
• The editor thinks this is simply an "Oriental myth" being performed on the streets, so cool!

3. Hokobo (flower umbrella)

• One of the symbols of Nagasaki Kunchi, the hoko is a giant flower umbrella decorated with colorful strips of cloth and ornaments.
• During the performance, it is lifted up by men and rotated and swayed to symbolize a good harvest.
• When I first saw it, I thought it was like a "walking firework", gorgeous and gorgeous! ✨

4. Hull performance (boat return)🚢

• Some towns prepare giant "boat-shaped floats" that imitate Dutch or Chinese sailing ships and pull and spin them through the streets.
• The performance is accompanied by shouts and music, showcasing the characteristics of a port city.
• I think this is the most unique thing about Nagasaki - the complete integration of marine culture into the festival!

Festival process and date🗓️

• Date : Fixed from October 7th to 9th every year, for a total of three days.
• Main process :
  1. October 7 (first day) : The dedication dance is held at Suwa Shrine, officially kicking off.
  2. October 8 (Central and Southern) : The performance team paraded through the city for citizens and tourists to enjoy.
  3. October 9th (the day after) : The offering will be made again at the shrine and the closing performance will be held in the city.

Editor's note: If you want to see the highlights, it is recommended to lock in the shrine dedication on the 7th, as it is the most solemn and grand opening! ⛩️

Local atmosphere and citizen participation🏘️

• Everyone in the town will participate : From children to elders, everyone in the town will give their all.
• International flavor : Due to Nagasaki's historical background, the festival combines elements of Japan, China, and the Netherlands, making it like a "mini World Expo."
• Audience interaction : The audience along the way will applaud and cheer enthusiastically, and the atmosphere will be joyful and lively.
• I think this atmosphere is really like an "ancient carnival," and it's even more exotic than a typical festival! 🎉

Tips from the editor ✨

• Best viewing spot : Suwa Shrine is the most representative stage, but it is crowded, so it is recommended to reserve a seat early.
• Transportation : Nagasaki city has convenient transportation, and the main venues can be easily reached by tram.
• Ticket Information : Tickets are required for some votive performances (especially at shrines), so advance reservations are recommended.
• Enjoy delicious food : During the festival, the streets are filled with food stalls. Nagasaki cakes, Kakuni manju, and Chinese-style cuisine are all must-try! 🍜🍰

Summary❤️

Nagasaki Kunchi is a miraculous festival that blends religion, art, history, and international culture. Unlike other festivals, which are simply bustling, it exudes the unique charm of an international city. From the majestic momentum of the dragon dance to the magnificent twirl of the umbrella hoko to the awe-inspiring power of the boat, it is a sight to behold.

I feel like Nagasaki Kunchi is like a "symphony of world culture," fully showcasing the soul of Nagasaki over the course of three days. If you ever have the chance to visit Kyushu, definitely put it on your must-see list! 🔥