Hakata Gion Yamakasa 2026: Festival Guide & Float Race
Kyushu · FukuokaFestival
Fukuoka’s Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a 780-year-old festival that climaxes with teams of men racing one-tonne floats through the streets at dawn.
Overview
A festival of Kushida Shrine, Yamakasa features towering decorative floats (kazariyama) displayed around the city and the racing floats (kakiyama) hauled at speed by teams in loincloths and happi coats.
When and Where
The festival runs July 1–15 every year in the Hakata district of Fukuoka. The climax, Oiyama, is at dawn on July 15 (from about 4:59 a.m.), starting at Kushida Shrine.
Getting There
Kushida Shrine is near Gion or Nakasu-Kawabata subway stations, a short walk in central Hakata (about 10 minutes from Hakata Station).
What to Expect
From July 1, ornate display floats appear across the city; the final Oiyama sees teams sprint a five-kilometre course carrying the heavy kakiyama, drenched in “power water,” cheered by huge dawn crowds.
Tips for Visitors
For the famous Oiyama you must arrive in the very early morning of July 15 (before 5 a.m.) to get near Kushida Shrine. Earlier in the run you can see the display floats around town at any time, for free.
Access and Map
| Dates (2026) | July 1–15 (climax Oiyama, dawn Jul 15) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Hakata district & Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka |
| Access | Gion / Nakasu-Kawabata subway, near Hakata Station |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Hakata Gion Yamakasa |
Source: Hakata Gion Yamakasa (official)
Image: Photo: Pontafon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
