Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Float Event
Japanese name: 唐津くんちの曳山行事（からつくんちのひきやまぎょうじ）
Karatsu, Saga
2026
Mon, Nov 2 – Wed, Nov 4
2027
Tue, Nov 2
Yoiyama (evening float procession)
Wed, Nov 3
Procession to the otabisho
Thu, Nov 4
Day-after festival (town tour)
About the festival
This event is held at the autumn festival of Karatsu Shrine. Hikiyama floats made by ikkanbari, layering washi paper and coating it with lacquer, are pulled through the town. The oldest, the Red Lion of Katanamachi, is said to have been offered in 1819; floats in the shapes of helmets, sea bream, and other forms were added later, and there are now 14.
Fourteen floats shaped as lions, helmets, sea bream, and more
Hauling the floats into the sand at the Nishinohama otabisho
Yoiyama, the evening procession of lantern-lit floats through town
Key facts
- Category
- UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: Yama, Hoko, Yatai float festivals
- Location
- Karatsu, Saga
- Main venue
- Karatsu Shrine and the old castle town of Karatsu
- Getting there
- About a 10-minute walk from JR Karatsu Station to Karatsu Shrine.
This description was written by Matsuri Biyori based on public information. Dates and details may change. Please check the organizers' latest information before you go. Translated from the Japanese original.
Nearby and similar festivals
FAQ
- When is Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Float Event held in 2027?
- In 2027, it is scheduled for Tue, Nov 2 – Thu, Nov 4 (Calculated from the usual rule).
- Where is Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Float Event held?
- It is held in Karatsu, Saga. The main venue is Karatsu Shrine and the old castle town of Karatsu.
- How are the dates of Karatsu Kunchi Hikiyama Float Event set?
- November 2 (yoiyama evening procession), 3 (procession to the otabisho), and 4 (day-after festival and town tour) every year