Every July, as long as you com

Every July, as long as you come to Fukuoka, you will definitely feel a unique liveliness - the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. This line not only has a cultural atmosphere, but also allows you to experience the seriousness and enthusiasm of Fukuoka people in preparing for the festival. This article will take you deep into the city of Fukuoka, focusing on Kushida Shrine, and feel the atmosphere of the local event 🎉.

If you don’t really want to get up super early, the most convenient way is to head straight to Kushida Shrine, where all the giant Yamakas will eventually converge to take pictures of the festival highlights from beginning to end. You can also walk into the local crowd at any time and feel the most authentic Fukuoka.

Itinerary Recommendation: Yamakasa Festival x Kushida Shrine

📍 Kushida Shrine
The most famous festival site in Fukuoka, Hakata Gion Yamakasa chooses this place as its terminus every year. Whether it’s crowded during the festival or a quiet atmosphere on weekdays, it’s worth a visit. The interior of the shrine is full of antique architecture and incense, and is surrounded by giant mountain hats that can only be seen during festivals. You can feel the charm of Fukuoka folk customs.

Address: 1-41 Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026 Japan
Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 year-round

A big inventory of festival highlights

1. Hakata Yamagata Parade
The Yamagasa team moves through the main neighborhoods of Fukuoka, where energetic men will sprint carrying floats, and many spectators occupy seats early along the way. Eventually everyone will gather at Kushida Shrine to take pictures of the moment when the atmosphere is at its peak!

2. Check in with the giant mountain hat
Even if you don't follow the lively parade, all the giant Yamakasa will be parked at the shrine after the festival. Even if you are not a local, you can slowly enjoy each of the exquisitely carved Yamakata floats.

3. The human touch of local festivals
Many festival participants will be deployed in the early morning to prepare, and the streets and alleys are full of enthusiasm. To experience the most local part of the festival, be sure to stay more time around the shrine and feel the anticipation and joy invested throughout Fukuoka.

Attractions Practical Tips

- Also, it is particularly crowded in the morning during the festival, if you don't want to be crowded you can go to Kushida Shrine slightly later, but it's easier to see Yamagata up close
- Sunny day photography effect is the most beautiful, cloudy and rainy days do not have to worry, Yamakasa flower car can be close-up inside and outside the shrine
- There are plenty of convenience stores near the shrine where you can always resupply drinks and snacks
- Remember to bring your camera, the color of the scene is very feel, Yamakasa style super Fukuoka characteristic

Transportation guide

Kushida Shrine is about a 15-minute walk from Hakata Station, or you can take the Hakata Subway to "Kukuda Shrine-mae" station on foot, traffic can be busy during the festival, it is recommended to plan your route in advance.

Food recommendations

There are many authentic Fukuoka snacks nearby, including Hakata ramen, mint skewers, and eel rice.

summary

The Yamakasa Festival is a cultural feast limited to Fukuoka in summer! You don't have to follow the parade all the way, just go to Kushida Shrine to grab the most beautiful Yamagasa view and feel the richest local humanity in Fukuoka. It's super valuable whether it's sunny or cloudy. Next time you visit Fukuoka in July, don’t miss this annual event!

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