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Tobata Gion Oyamagasa Festival
A pyramid of lanterns atop the Nobori Yamagasa in an unforgettable spectacular.
This traditional event, affectionately known as "Lantern Mountain" and one of the three major summer festivals in Fukuoka Prefecture, boasts a history of over 220 years. In 2016, it was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage as part of the "Yama, Hoko, Yatai, float festivals in Japan."
The undeniable highlight at this event is the parade of eight "Nobori Yamagasa” floats as they make their glorious procession. The "Go-dan Age" transformation as the floats are raised up into Lantern Mountains is particularly breathtaking. During this transformation, decorations such as banners and drapes are removed, a square tower is built on top of the Yamagasa base, and five levels of quadrangular pyramid-shaped lanterns are raised simultaneously. Then, lanterns attached to a wooden frame are assembled in succession. You may be particularly enthralled at the sight of how fast but precisely the lanterns come together.
The Lantern Mountains stand about 10 meters tall and weigh 2.5 tons, carried by approximately 80 bearers. Watch in sheer awe as they march to the boom of the gongs and drums, chanting "Yoitosa, Yoitosa." The flickering candle flames within the lanterns sway with the movement of the Yamagasa, creating a fantastic whimsy that can’t be reproduced anywhere else. The Kagura music performed from the Yamagasa enhances the festival's extraordinary ambiance.
Highlights
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A vibrantly moving festival where Nobori Yamagasa floats parade through Tobata District.
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The performance ensemble of all eight Nobori Yamagasa together is the main attraction.
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Go-dan Age, where the Yamagasa are adorned with lanterns and transform into their nocturnal form, is a must-see.
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 戸畑祇園大山笠
- Location
- Various parts of Tobata District, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka (The performance is around Tobata Ward Office)
- Telephone
- 093-871-2316 (Tobata Gion Oyamagasa Promotion Association Office)
- Schedule
- Annually on the weekend spanning the 4th Saturday of July (The performance is on the 4th Saturday from 6:30pm to 9:00pm)
- Access
- A 10-minute walk from JR Kagoshima Main Line Tobata Station to the performance venue.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)