Karatsu Kunchi Festival Guide 2024

The Karatsu Kunchi Festival (唐津くんち) is one of Japan's most vibrant and exciting festivals, held annually in the city of Karatsu in Saga Prefecture. This three-day festival, designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property by the Japanese government, is a spectacular display of traditional Japanese culture, featuring colorful floats, lively music, and enthusiastic crowds.

What is the Karatsu Kunchi Festival?

• Roots & Purpose: The Karatsu Kunchi Festival dates back to the early 17th century, when it was held to pray for a bountiful harvest and to ward off evil spirits. Today, the festival serves as a celebration of the city's rich history and culture.

• A Three-Day Celebration: The Karatsu Kunchi Festival takes place over three days, from November 2nd to 4th. Each day features a variety of events, including parades, performances, and ceremonies.

What to Expect: Karatsu Kunchi Festival Highlights

• Hikiyama Floats: The highlight of the Karatsu Kunchi Festival are the 14 elaborately decorated hikiyama floats. These massive floats, each representing a different district of Karatsu, are pulled through the streets by teams of men.

• Otabisho Shinko: On the second day of the festival, the hikiyama floats are paraded to the Otabisho, a temporary shrine located on the beach.

• Yoiyama: The evening before the main parade, the hikiyama floats are illuminated and paraded through the streets, creating a magical and festive atmosphere.

• Karatsu Kunchi Festival Atmosphere: The Karatsu Kunchi Festival is a lively and exciting event, with crowds of people lining the streets to watch the parades and enjoy the festivities.

Main events

• Yoiyama (November 2nd): This vibrant evening event marks the official start of the festival. Each of the 14 massive and ornate hikiyama floats is decorated with hundreds of lanterns. They are then paraded through the streets of Karatsu.  The illuminated floats create a breathtaking spectacle and the energy in the city is electric.

• Otabisho Shinko (November 3rd): The highlight of the entire festival!  This is when the hikiyama floats are pulled to Nishinohama Beach for a special ceremony at the Otabisho, a temporary shrine constructed on the sand. The sight of these huge, meticulously decorated floats being pulled across the beach is truly unforgettable.

• Hamamachi Parade (November 4th): The festival's final day features another parade where the hikiyama make their way back through the streets of Karatsu. This parade is a fantastic opportunity to see the floats and experience the excitement of the closing festivities.

Tips for the Best Karatsu Kunchi Festival Experience

• Book Early: Karatsu is a small city and accommodation fills up quickly during the festival. Book your accommodation well in advance.

• Plan Your Route: The parades can be crowded, so plan your route in advance and arrive early to get a good spot.

• Embrace the Chaos: The Karatsu Kunchi Festival is a chaotic and exciting event. Embrace the energy and enjoy the festivities.