Hakata Dontaku Festival

About

Hakata Dontaku is a civic festival in Fukuoka that developed from the traditional Hakata Matsubayashi. Early Matsubayashi processions featured the three deities Fukurokuju, Ebisu and Daikokuten, along with children, bringing New Year greetings to the castle lord and local neighborhoods. Residents followed in inventive costumes and with performances, gradually shaping today's parade format. During the festival, companies, schools, community groups and residents form teams to perform in the streets and on stages across the city. Events include the parade along Meiji-dori, the Matsubayashi's visits to offer blessings, and illuminated parade vehicles. Traditional blessings and civic performances meet in the city's public spaces, expressing a festival culture shared by Fukuoka and Hakata.

Details

Location

Japan・Fukuoka

Frequency

Held every year