Karatsu Kunchi’s Hikiyama Float Ritual
2-4 November, Karatsu (Saga prefecture)
Karatsu Kunchi’s Hikiyama float ritual is held in the autumn festival of Karatsu shrine. Festival floats called “Karatsu Hikiyama” carrying gorgeous and large statues parade around the city.
The oldest “Aka-shishi” statue owned by Katana town is considered to be made by the person who came back from Ise Shrine and watched the famous Kyoto Gion Festival. After that, other towns also made a variety of statues such as “Shishi” (a Chinese-style lion), “Kabuto” (Japanese head armor), and “Hiryu” (Flying dragon). The total number of Karatsu Hikiama floats is now 14.
Even though the origin of Karatsu Hikiyama floats was under the influence of Kyoto Gion festival, it has distinctive large wooden statue floats which are different from any other festival floats. In this aspect, Karatsu Kunchi float ritual is one of the most important float rituals in Japan.
- Organizer:
- Karatsu Hikiyama Torishimari-kai
- Contact Details
- 〒847-0816
- Saga Karatsu Shinkou-cho 2935-1
- Karatsu Tourism Association
- TEL：0955-74-3355
9:00〜18:00 - Website
- TABI KARATSU
- https://www.karatsu-kankou.jp/feature/karatsukunchi/
