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Introduction to the Yamakasa Festival Timeline
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is one of Japan's most dynamic and exhilarating festivals, held every year from July 1st to July 15th in Fukuoka City's Hakata district. This festival is a spectacle of tradition, community spirit, and raw energy, culminating in a dramatic race, the Oiyama, where teams of men carry elaborately decorated floats, called "Kakiyama," through the streets at breakneck speed. If you're planning to witness this incredible event, understanding the schedule is absolutely crucial. This guide breaks down the key events of the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, providing a detailed timeline to help you plan your visit and ensure you don't miss a single highlight of this ancient festival. Each year, the schedule of the festival follows this structure.Oshioitori Opening Ceremony on July 1st
The festival kicks off with the Oshioitori, a purification ceremony where participants gather sacred sand from Hakozaki Beach. This ritual takes place in the late afternoon around 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM. The teams gather at Kushida Shrine and proceed to Hakozaki Beach, each member praying for safety during the festival. It's a solemn yet fascinating event that sets the tone for the following two weeks. Each team will use their own specific route to get to the beach, but the result is the same.Nagaregaki Event on July 10th to 12th
From July 10th, the Nagaregaki begins, where teams practice carrying their Kakiyama floats within their respective "Nagare" (district) areas. This is a chance to see the floats up close and witness the teams' coordination and strength. The practice runs usually take place in the late afternoon or early evening, between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Each team has its schedule, so check the local listings or ask around to find out where and when your favorite Nagare will be practicing. Different routes and streets are used for the event, but the goal is always to complete a timed lap of the neighborhood, giving the team an idea of their speed and coordination. Each team is allowed one practice session.Ashiarai on July 10th and 12th
Ashiarai literally translates to "leg washing." It is essentially the same as the Nagaregaki, but the course is shorter. As this is a similar event to the Nagaregaki, the specific dates for each team are different, and can also take place between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.Oiyamanarashi Rehearsal on July 12th
On July 12th, the Oiyamanarashi takes place. This is a full-dress rehearsal of the Oiyama race, covering approximately four kilometers, just one kilometer shorter than the actual race route. The rehearsal starts at 3:59 PM from Gofukumachi intersection and is a fantastic opportunity to experience the intensity of the race without the massive crowds of the final day. This is when the teams go all out, and the atmosphere is electric. It is the first time all seven Nagare run together. As the course is shorter than the main event, the teams don't run through Nara-ya-machi, Myotenji Temple, or the east end of Shotenji Temple.Shudan Yamamise Public Display on July 13th
The Shudan Yamamise is a grand parade of the Kakiyama floats from Gofukumachi to the city hall in Tenjin on July 13th. The parade starts at 3:30 PM and is a chance to admire the floats' intricate decorations as they are carried along a 1.3-kilometer route. The mayor of Fukuoka and other local celebrities ride on the floats. It's a festive atmosphere with a lot of pomp and circumstance, showcasing the beauty of the floats and the pride of each Nagare. At this time, the teams go to visit different places in the area, for example, Fukuoka City Hall, to give their respects to the city and important individuals.Oiyama Climax on July 15th
The main event, the Oiyama, takes place in the early hours of July 15th, starting at 4:59 AM. The floats are raced through a five-kilometer course starting from Kushida Shrine. The energy is palpable as thousands of spectators line the streets to cheer on the teams. The atmosphere is electric, filled with shouts of "Oisa! Oisa!" as the teams push themselves to the limit. This is the heart-pounding climax of the festival you won't want to miss.Getting Ready for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa
Knowing the Hakata Gion Yamakasa schedule is only part of the equation. To make the most of your experience, you'll want to equip yourself with a few essentials.Gear Recommendations for Festival-Goers
Comfortable Footwear: You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so a good pair of walking shoes is a must. Consider the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25, known for its exceptional cushioning, or the Brooks Ghost 15, which offers a smooth ride and excellent support. These will set you back around $150-$160, but your feet will thank you. These shoes can be used for either watching the race or if you plan on doing any day trips or hikes in the surrounding area, making them versatile and worth the money.Portable Power Bank: With all the photo and video opportunities, your phone's battery will drain quickly. A reliable power bank like the Anker PowerCore 10000 is compact and can charge your phone multiple times. It's priced around $25-$30 and is a lifesaver for staying connected and capturing every moment. It might also be worth purchasing a Japanese SIM card at the airport when you arrive, as this will allow you to use your phone without incurring any extra charges from your cell phone carrier.
Rain Gear: July in Fukuoka can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. A lightweight, packable rain jacket like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L ($179) or the more budget-friendly Columbia Watertight II ($60-$90) will keep you dry without taking up too much space in your bag. A compact umbrella, easily found at convenience stores in Japan for around 500-1000 yen (about $5-$10), can also be a handy addition.
Hydration Pack: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the warmer hours. A hydration pack like the CamelBak M.U.L.E. ($100-$120) allows you to carry water hands-free and has extra pockets for snacks and essentials. Alternatively, a simple reusable water bottle, which you can refill at your hotel or various spots around the city, is an eco-friendly option.
Useful Apps for Navigating the Festival
HyperDia: This app is a lifesaver for navigating Japan's complex train and subway systems. It provides up-to-the-minute train schedules, platform information, and route options. It's particularly useful for getting to and from the festival events efficiently. The app is free for the first 30 days.GuruNavi: A great app for finding restaurants and local eateries around the festival area. It offers reviews, menus, and sometimes even discounts. It's perfect for discovering local culinary gems and avoiding tourist traps. The app is free and available in English.
Google Translate: While many signs and announcements will be in Japanese, Google Translate can help bridge the language gap. The camera function is particularly useful for translating menus, signs, and written information instantly. This app is free.