【2026】Major July Tourism Events and Festivals in Fukuoka Prefecture

Dynamic! Heroic! Yamakasa Festivals in Various Regions

Hakata Gion Yamakasa (Fukuoka City)

The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a representative festival of Hakata, boasting a history and tradition of over 780 years since its inception in the Kamakura period (approx. 1185–1333). It is a Shinto ritual in which Yamakasa floats are dedicated to Kushida Shrine, the grand tutelary shrine of Hakata, to pray for good health and protection from illness. It has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Furthermore, it was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016.

Event Dates: Wednesday, July 1 – Wednesday, July 15, 2026

July 1 – 15: Public display of Kazari-yamakasa (Decorative floats)
July 12: Oiyama-narashi (Rehearsal for the main race)
July 13: Shudan Yamakasa-mise (Courtesy Parade)
July 15 (From 4:59 am): Oiyama (Main Race)

Iizuka Citizen Yamakasa Festival (Iizuka City)

The Iizuka Citizen Yamakasa Festival, popular as a summer citizens' festival, is said to have started during the Kyoho era (approx. 1716–1736) and has a history of over 40 years since its revival. Furthermore, on the day of the "Oiyama," the grand finale of the Yamakasa, around 3,000 men wrap themselves in Mizu-happi (traditional festival coats). The sight of them sprinting through the city while being drenched from head to toe in Kioi-mizu (spirited splashing water) from the roadsides brings deep emotion and a moment of refreshing coolness to the streets of Iizuka!

Event Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026

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Amagi Gion Yamakasa Festival (Asakura City)

A Gion festival with a history of about 300 years. On the 13th, the children's Taru-mikoshi (barrel shrines) are energetically paraded through the town, followed by the Oiyama (main float race) on the 15th.

Event Dates: Monday, July 13 – Wednesday, July 15, 2026

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Tsuyazaki Gion Yamakasa (Fukutsu City)

The sight of the magnificent three Nagare (district teams) floats sprinting through the streets alongside the passionate chants of men wearing shimekomi (traditional loincloths) is truly spectacular. On the previous day, the Hadaka-mairi (purification pilgrimage performed in loincloths) is held.

Event Dates: Saturday, July 18, 2026: Hadaka-mairi / Sunday, July 19: Oiyama (main race) from 9:00 am

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Yamakasa festivals all over the place

Kokura Gion Daiko (Kitakyushu City)

A Gion festival with a 400-year history held in Kokura, the center of Kitakyushu City. It was designated as Japan's first National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property for a drumming art.
It is a drum festival where people pull a dashi (festival float) carrying a drum and parade through the streets of Kokura while striking the drum on foot. The spirited drum and Jangara (hand cymbals) are courageously beaten in time with the chants, a summer tradition of Kokura. The masterly performance of striking both sides of the drum and striking it while walking, which is rare nationwide, is a must-see.

Event Dates: Friday, July 17 – Sunday, July 19, 2026

Omuta Daijyayama (Large Snake Float) Festival (Omuta City)

The Omuta Daijyayama (Large Snake Float) Festival, Omuta City's largest event, is a festival with a rich history and tradition that began in 1961. It combined the "Daijayama Gion Festival" which traces its origins back to the Edo period (approx. 1603–1867), the Omuta City Chamber of Commerce and Industry's "Tanto (Coal Capital) Matsuri," and the "Minato (Port) Matsuri" held around Miike Port. The origin of the "Daijayama," the main attraction of the festival, dates back over 300 years. It is believed that the Daijayama was born from the intertwining of the Suijin (water god) belief, which regards snakes and dragons as symbols of the water god, and the Gion belief, which worships the enshrined deity as a god of agriculture and protection against disease. On the days of the festival, the sky of Omuta burns bright red.

Event Dates: Saturday, July 18 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
※Minato Matsuri: Saturday, July 18 & Sunday, July 19

Nogata Summer Festival (Nogata City)

This is a summer tradition of Nogata City where you can enjoy the fireworks display and the Oiyama-gasa (main race), the grand finale of the Nogata Yamakasa. The sight of four illuminated Yamakasa floats sprinting down the road in front of Nogata City Hall is packed with impact! The "intense and dynamic running" and "Gaburi" (shaking the floats up and down), which are unique features of the Nogata Yamakasa, are a must-see. Please experience the spectacular Nogata Yamakasa "Oiyama" and about 6,000 fireworks launched right before your eyes.

Event Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026
*Cancelled in case of stormy weather

Fireworks Illuminating the Summer Night Sky

Sasaguri Gion Summer Festival & Noryo Fireworks Display (Sasaguri Town)

Various events are scheduled, including the "Kodomo-mikoshi" (children's portable shrines), "Otona-yamakasa" (adult festival floats), and a "brass band parade" by junior high school students. Food stalls will also line the streets, and about 1,000 fireworks will be launched in the evening.

Event Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
*Cancelled in case of stormy weather
Miyawaka Fireworks Festival (Miyawaka City)

A summer tradition where about 3,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky of Miyawaka. It is a fireworks display with a long history of over 50 editions.

Event Date: Monday (Holiday), July 20, 2026
*Postponed to Thursday, July 23 in case of stormy weather

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Asiya Fireworks Festival (Ashiya Town)

A traditional fireworks display that has continued since the Taisho period (approx. 1912–1926). Large fireworks will be launched near the mouth of the Onga River. The spectacular 250-meter-long "Niagara Falls" set-piece fireworks spanning both banks of the Onga River are a must-see.

Event Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
*Will proceed in light rain; no postponement in case of rain

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Other Fireworks Displays and Summer Festivals

July 7 is Tanabata (the Star Festival)!

July 7 is Tanabata (the Star Festival). The romantic story of Orihime (the Weaver Star) and Hikoboshi (the Cowherd Star), who can cross the Milky Way to meet only once a year, is still loved by many people today. In Fukuoka Prefecture, various events are held in different regions, including activities where people write their wishes on tanzaku (colorful paper strips) and hang them on bamboo grass, as well as other Tanabata-related events. (Some events may be held in August in accordance with the lunar calendar, so please check the schedule.)

Tanabata Spot 1: Tanabata Shrine (Himekoso Shrine) (Ogori City)

Ogori City is known as the "Home of Tanabata" because its geography—with Himekoso Shrine (commonly known as Tanabata Shrine) and Oimatsu Shrine (commonly known as Kengyu Shrine) facing each other across the Homan River—resembles the terrain around the Hanshui River in China, which is said to be the birthplace of the Tanabata legend. The history of Tanabata Shrine is ancient, even appearing in the "Hizen no Kuni Fudoki" (an ancient chronicle of the region's culture and geography) compiled around the 8th century. For 1,300 years since then, it has been worshiped as the local ujigami (tutelary deity) and is affectionately called "Tanabata-san" by the locals.

Location: 1 Osaki, Ogori City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Tanabata Spot 2: Oshima Orihime Shrine and Kengyu Shrine of the Amanogawa Legend (Munakata City, Oshima)

These are two shrines built across the Amanogawa (Milky Way) River within the precincts of Munakata Taisha Nakatsumiya Shrine (Oshima). On the hill to the left facing Nakatsumiya is Shokujo Shrine, which enshrines Orihime (the Weaver Star). On the hill to the right is Kengyu Shrine, which enshrines Kengyu (the Cowherd Star). Together, the two are called "Hoshi no Miya" (Shrine of the Stars), and a romantic legend related to the Amanogawa has been passed down.

Location: 1811 Oshima, Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture

Tanabata Spot 3: Hokutogu Shrine (Kama City)

The Goshuin-cho (shrine seal book) of Hokutogu Shrine located in Kama City features a beautiful design that looks as if the real Big Dipper appears in the night sky when the front and back covers are opened wide. Special Goshuin (commemorative shrine seals) adorned with the Big Dipper are also granted in limited quantities.

Tanabata (Star Festival) Related Events

Miyajidake Shrine Tanabata Festival (Fukutsu City)

Tanabata is a romantic day when Orihime (the Weaver Star) and Hikoboshi (the Cowherd Star) can meet once a year. During the festival period, the shrine precincts are fully decorated in Tanabata themes. The Chozuya (purification fountain) adorned with seasonal flowers, along with Tanabata bamboo grass and tanzaku (colorful paper strips for wishes), create a colorful and lively atmosphere. Cute tanzaku paper strips are also available, and you can write your wishes and tie them to Miyajidake's bamboo stalks to make a wish.

Event Dates: Tuesday, July 7 – Friday, August 7, 2026
Dazaifu Tenmangu Tanabata Festival (Dazaifu City)

We will hold the "Tanabata Festival" ritual. At the festival, there will be a dedication performance of the "Yamaga Toro Odori" (Lantern Dance) from Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture. Please enjoy a fantastical and elegant time.
*You can enjoy the beautiful Tanabata decorations from July 1 to 7. (Nighttime illumination will be conducted from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm during this period.)

Event Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Hokutogu Shrine Tanabata Festival (Kama City)

The "Hokutogu Shrine Tanabata Festival" will be held at Hokutogu Shrine, enshrined in Kama City. Hokutogu is a historic shrine that worships the enshrined deity, Ame-no-Minakanushi, a creator god in Japanese mythology. Since ancient times, it has been deeply worshiped as a god who binds all kinds of en (bonds of fate). It is said to be especially beneficial for Ryoen Kigan (prayers for good matches and relationships) that fulfill people's wishes, such as fulfillment in love, human relationships, and career connections.

Event Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Oshima Tanabata Month (Munakata City)

Various places throughout the island of Oshima will be brightly decorated with Tanabata fukinagashi (streamers) and ornaments, and you can write your wishes on tanzaku (colorful paper strips) placed at restaurants and accommodation facilities. The tanzaku strips with wishes written on them will be dedicated at the Tanabata Festival on August 7. At Munakata Taisha Nakatsumiya Shrine, limited-time special Goshuin (commemorative shrine seals) for Kengyu Shrine and Shokujo Shrine will be distributed.

Event Dates: Tuesday, July 7 – Friday, August 7, 2026
Summer Festival at Tanabata Shrine (Ogori City)

A summer festival held every year on August 6 and 7 in accordance with the Tanabata of the lunar calendar. In the morning of the 7th, a dedication ritual and the traditional event "Shishioi" (lion chase), where a festival lion visits each house, are held. In addition, food stalls open around noon on both days. On the evening of the 7th, the annual event "Tanabata Fureai Gekijo" (Tanabata Friendship Theater) is held within the shrine precincts, with dance, Hyottoko dance (a comic mask dance), Taiko drums, and a lottery scheduled.

Event Dates: Thursday, August 6 & Friday, August 7, 2026

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Oshima Tanabata Festival (Munakata City)

A festival held in conjunction with the "Tanabata Festival" ritual performed at Munakata Taisha Nakatsumiya Shrine. In addition to the precincts of Nakatsumiya Shrine being enveloped in the beautiful light of take-toro (bamboo lanterns), various projects such as stage events and food stalls are also scheduled.

Event Date: Friday, August 7, 2026

Let's Go Blueberry Picking!

Blueberries, which reach their peak from early summer through summer, are a popular fruit known for their sweet and sour flavor and rich nutrition. From around June to September, blueberry picking spots will be opening one after another throughout Fukuoka Prefecture.

A guide to enjoying fruit picking in Fukuoka

Other Featured Events

Lavender Flower Picking Experience (Soeda Town)

You can pick from about 1,500 plants of Lavandin-type lavender blooming in the Hikosan Hanazono (Hikosan Flower Garden). Let's make dried flowers or lavender sticks with the lavender you picked and enjoy the fragrance!

Event Dates: Saturday, July 4 & Sunday, July 5, 2026
Munakata Local Fish Chazuke Festival: Only Now! Only Here! Anago (Conger Eel) Chazuke (Munakata City)

The "Munakata Local Fish Chazuke Festival" allows you to enjoy seasonal fish through the local dish chazuke (rice with tea or broth poured over it). This summer, anago (conger eel) makes its appearance! Please enjoy comparing the different flavors of anago chazuke that each restaurant prides itself on, featuring carefully crafted broths, sauces, and cooking methods.

Event Dates: Sunday, July 5 – Monday, August 31, 2026
Direct from the Farm! Summer Kei Truck Market (Koga City)

Farmers in Koga City sell their proud agricultural products directly to you! From freshly harvested rice and freshly picked summer vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and eggplants, to fruits such as plums, and processed goods like jams, it is well-received every time. There are also events that children can enjoy and food trucks on-site.

Event Date: Sunday, July 12, 2026
Honkaku Shochu, Awamori & Food Festival 2026 (Fukuoka City)

An event where you can enjoy Japan's world-proud honkaku shochu (traditional single-distilled spirits), awamori (Okinawan distilled spirits), and gourmet food. You can taste and purchase honkaku shochu and awamori that distilleries take pride in, and new encounters await you! Also, look forward to food trucks and snacks featuring "umaimon" (delicious food) gathered from all over Kyushu.

Event Dates: Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26, 2026

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Water Play & Cool Spots

Uminonakamichi Sunshine Pools (Fukuoka City)

The "lazy river" (running water pool), which is 300 meters per lap and one of the largest in western Japan, and the "Water Jungle" filled with fun water gimmicks are highly popular. The "Sunshine Terrace," a paid rest space introduced three years ago, has also been expanded, making the facility even more convenient and comfortable to use.

Period: Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays from Saturday, July 4 to Wednesday (National Holiday), September 23, 2026 *Open daily from Wednesday, July 22 to Thursday, August 27.

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Ashiya Beach, Leisure Pool Aquasian (Ashiya Town)

An approximately 1 km section of the vast sandy beach facing the Hibikinada Sea will open as a swimming beach. With its prime location overlooking the white shoreline, clear blue skies, and Sanri Matsubara (a scenic pine grove selected as one of Japan's 100 finest white sand beaches and pine groves), it is one of northern Kyushu's leading beach resorts.

Period: Beach Swimming = Saturday, July 4 – Sunday, August 16, 2026 / Pool Business Days = Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, August 30, 2026

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Tagawa City Civic Pool (Tagawa City)

Located adjacent to the Tagawa Civic Baseball Stadium, this is the largest outdoor pool in the city. It is packed with exciting activities, such as a lazy river (running water pool) winding around a colorful water jungle gym, a water slide that three people can slide down together, and water guns!

Period: Saturday, July 12 – Sunday, August 31, 2025

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Tanada Shinsui Park (Toho Village, Asakura District)

The "Koinobori Pool" (carp streamer pool) that utilizes the flow of the Hojusan River is highly popular with children. Because it features an Experience Exchange Center where you can try woodworking, playground equipment in the plaza, shops, and restaurants, the park is bustling with families and groups on holidays.

Period: Tuesday, July 1 – Sunday, August 31, 2025 (Pool open days)

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Yabe River Headwaters Park (Yame City)

Located upstream of the Hyugami Dam, the "Fureai River Pool," which utilizes the natural river as it is, can be used free of charge. There are many spots to enjoy, such as a water-friendly (shinsui) plaza and a huge sundial!

Period: From Tuesday, July 1, 2025

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Senbutsu Limestone Cave (Kitakyushu City)

Senbutsu Limestone Cave, one of the largest of its kind in Japan, stretching across the Hiraodai karst plateau, is designated as a National Natural Monument. The temperature inside is maintained at approximately 16°C throughout the year, making it popular as a "natural air conditioner." Many tourists visit seeking a cool respite.

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Cho-on Falls Park (Ukiha City)

The waterfall was named "Cho-on no Taki" (Sound-Tuning Falls) because the sound of the water flowing from a height of 27 meters sounds as if it is playing a natural melody. During the summer season (July and August), the running water pool is open to the public free of charge, and shops selling local specialties also open. Somen nagashi (flowing somen noodles), enjoyed while listening to the sound of the waterfall, is also popular.

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Shiraito Falls Fureai-no-sato (Itoshima City)

The water current, falling like silk threads down a 24-meter-drop rock face while kicking up pure white spray, is both delicate and breathtaking. It is a popular spot where you can also experience yamame (river trout) fishing and somen nagashi (flowing somen noodles). From mid-June to early July, the hydrangeas also reach their peak viewing season.

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Hints for Your Summer Plans! Recommended Special Features

Beer Gardens & Beer Events in Fukuoka

Drinking midsummer beer in the middle of the city while feeling a cool breeze is truly exceptional! It blows away the fatigue of the day. We introduce a wide variety of beer-related events, including indoor BBQs (barbecues) that can be enjoyed even on rainy days, and short trips by boat or train while savoring beer.

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A selection of 10 stargazing spots in Fukuoka! From full-scale observatories to hidden gems

From spots where you can enjoy both the night view and the starry sky, to a sky full of stars seen in the midst of majestic nature, rare celestial shows, and full-scale observatories, we have carefully selected spots where you can fully enjoy the starry sky of Fukuoka! Why not forget the heat and spend a romantic time?

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Drive with Exhilaration! Recommended Driving Spots in Fukuoka

Head out for a drive while gazing up at the high, clear summer blue sky! From places where you can fully enjoy spectacular natural views to spots where you can touch upon history and culture, and even popular Michi-no-Eki (roadside rest areas), we carefully select and introduce the spots you will want to visit by car.

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Factory tour and social studies field trips fun for both children and adults!

Aside from mentaiko (spiced cod roe) and ramen unique to Fukuoka, there are many factories and facilities that you can tour around. Factory tours, where you can have precious experiences that are usually difficult to come by, are highly recommended not only for children but for adults as well.

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