I just got back last Wednesday from a super fun 7-day summer vacation in Japan! This time, I visited Northern Kyushu, specifically Fukuoka, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Beppu, and Usuki. I wasn’t sure if I would go through with this trip, but I decided to go for it! My first destination was Fukuoka, a city known for its annual festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a 750-year-old tradition in Hakata, originally held to ward off epidemics from Fukuoka. Over time, it evolved into an annual festival. Thousands of loincloth-clad men from seven districts race through the streets, carrying massive, one-ton decorative floats. It was probably the greatest butt show I’ve ever seen—LOL!
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Flight from Manila to Fukuoka
My flight to Fukuoka departed at around 2:10 PM Philippine time. I had a very nice sleep on the plane and woke up to a stunning view of sunset. Good thing, I checked in online earlier that day and I was assigned to a window seat. The plane landed at Fukuoka Airport at 7:00 PM, Japan being an hour ahead of Philippine time. The whole immigration process was a breeze.
My Accommodation during Hakata Gion Yamakasa
I arrived in &Hotel Hakata at around 8:00 PM. I was actually hesitant at first to stay with them because they are not located around Hakata Station. Fortunately, I did not have a hard time finding their location. Thanks to Fukuoka’s subway system and the taxi. Upon check in, I got my stuff ready for the next day. At 4:59 AM, the final race of Hakata Gion Yamakasa will be held. This festival was the primary reason why I want to go to Fukuoka. FYI, I am a sucker for history and I love learning about the places I am visiting.
Fukuoka’s Hakata Gion Yamakasa
Here are some of the highlights of Hakata Gion Yamakasa that I witnessed during the final race.
The festival wrapped up around 5:30 AM, so I headed back to the hotel for some much-needed rest. I woke up at 10:00 AM, picked up a bento box from a nearby bento factory, and withdrew cash from the Family Mart ATM. By 11:00 AM, I began my photo walk towards the train station.
Hakata Gion Yamakasa Overall Experience
I was truly amazed by the enormous effort put in by the people of Fukuoka, especially the participants, to bring the festival to life. According to several online sources, numerous meetings are held throughout the year to select the theme, construct the race floats, and gather donations. The teamwork involved is equally commendable, as the festival operates on such a large scale that it requires the participation of the entire community to ensure its success. It’s incredible to see that this kind of tradition is still actively practiced in a modern, first-world country like Japan.
For those planning to attend the festival next year but can’t make it for the final race, don’t worry! You can still catch one of the parades or pre-race events, typically held in the late afternoon from July 10-14. The entire festival runs from July 1st to 15th.
After witnessing Hakata Gion Yamakasa, I went to Dazaifu Tenmangu, a Shinto shrine in Fukuoka. Click the link to learn more about this trip.
Where to stay in Hakata
If you’re visiting during the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, I highly recommend booking a hotel near JR Hakata Station (the bullet train stop), as the race primarily takes place in this area. To fully immerse yourself in the Japanese festival spirit, consider staying in an izakaya room overnight. This way, you can attend a pre-festival party at the izakaya (Japanese pub) and, around 4 AM, watch the festival unfold from above.
Hotel Trad Hakata is only 7-minute away by bus from JR Hakata Station, and they also offer a free shuttle bus service to and from the station (go to Chikushi Exit). The hotel offers a traditional Japanese atmosphere with modern amenities, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international tourists.
Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin is situated in Tenjin, which is a convenient travel hub. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Tenjin Station and 15 minutes by subway from Fukuoka Airport. Its prime location offered easy access to shopping, and great food, making it an ideal choice for tourists.
Nine Hours Hakata Station is conveniently situated only a 3-minute walk away from Hakata Station, the main transportation hub of Kyushu. On the top floor, you can find a spacious lounge adorned with plenty of indoor plants, including a stunning large tree that has become quite a well-known symbol of the hotel.
Staying connected in Japan
I used to rely on pocket WiFi during my trips to Japan, but after discovering the convenience of travel eSIMs, I’ve made the switch. Japan Klook eSIM has been my go-to for its unlimited data and reliable connection. While there are various eSIM and pocket WiFi options, I highly recommend it for its exceptional coverage and high-speed internet in major cities. At under $5 per day with unlimited data, it’s far more convenient than carrying around a pocket WiFi. Use my code PROJECTGORAKLOOK to get 5% off.
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That’s how my first morning in Fukuoka unfolded! I feel incredibly lucky to have experienced the vibrant Hakata Gion Yamakasa this year. Even though I traveled solo, I had an amazing time soaking in the energy of the festival. Don’t miss my Northern Kyushu travel guide to explore the destinations I visited after Fukuoka!
