[2026] Summary of Major Tourism Events and Festivals in Fukuoka Prefecture: May & GW (Golden Week)

Hakata Dontaku harbor festival (Fukuoka City)

写真提供：福岡市

The Hakata Dontaku is said to have originated from an ancient folk event called "Hakata Matsubayashi," which is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. The name "Dontaku" began to be used when "Matsubayashi," which had been temporarily banned during the Meiji period, was revived. Its etymology is believed to be the Dutch word Zondag, meaning Sunday or holiday. In May 1946, following the end of the war, both "Matsubayashi" and "Dontaku" were revived for the first time in eight years. It is said that people gave great courage to the reconstruction efforts by parading through the war-torn ruins, playing the "Hakata Dontaku" music on shamisen and drums gathered from shops and homes that escaped destruction, wearing shoulder-mantle costumes (kataginu) made of paper and papier-mâché horses around their necks.

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Public Holiday) & May 4 (Mon, Public Holiday), 2026
Eve Festival: May 2 (Sat), 17:00–20:30 (Scheduled)

Koishiwara Spring Folk Pottery Village Festival (Toho Village)

The "Folk Pottery Village Festival" (Minto Mura Matsuri) is the largest pottery market in the Koishiwara area, held twice a year in spring and autumn. Around 40 kilns of Koishiwara-yaki and Takatori-yaki pottery open their doors simultaneously, and during the festival period, pottery can be purchased at a 20% discount off the regular price.

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Public Holiday) – May 5 (Tue, Public Holiday), 2026

3 Selected Early-Summer Fireworks!

Moji Strait Festa (Kitakyushu City)

Set against the backdrop of Mojiko Retro, this event features Kanmon Yosakoi dances, band performances across various genres, Mojiko’s famous "Banana no Tatakiuri" (banana auction performance), and even Genpei warriors visiting from Shimonoseki. The grand finale is a spectacular seaside fireworks display!

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Public Holiday) & May 4 (Mon, Public Holiday), 2026
Note: Fireworks will be held on May 4 only.

Kanda Port Festival (Kanda Town)

This festival celebrates its 44th year this year. At the Food Festival, star-studded guests such as comedian Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura and pianist Katsuya Shimada will perform together! Don't miss the surprise fireworks launched simultaneously from three different locations in the town!

Date: May 17 (Sun), 2026

Harazuru Onsen River-Opening Fireworks Display (Asakura City)

This fireworks display is held to celebrate the "Kawabiraki" (opening of the river season) of the Chikugo River. Fireworks at this time of year are rare, allowing you to enjoy them a little earlier than usual. Approximately 2,000 colorful fireworks illuminate not only the night sky over the Chikugo River but also reflect beautifully on the river’s surface!

Date: May 20 (Wed), 2026

Swimming Energetically Against the Blue Sky! Koinobori Spots

Koinobori at the Mitsui Miike Coal Mine Mikawa Pit Ruins (Omuta City)

At the ruins of the Mikawa Pit, which once flourished as the primary pit of the Miike Coal Mine, more than 100 carp streamers (koinobori) swim leisurely in the air. Come wish for the healthy growth of children while learning about history through the facilities and documents of the time!

Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays from April 4 (Sat) to May 31 (Sun), 2026

Juro River Carp Streamer Display (Fukuoka City)

The Juro River, which originates from Mt. Kanotake in Fukuoka City's Nishi Ward, is a 4km-long Class 2 river known for its natural riverbed and pristine water quality. As part of its river conservation activities, the "Jurogawa Club" displays carp streamers (koinobori) near Iki Elementary School every year. The sight of approximately 200 carp streamers swimming above a carpet of yellow canola flowers is truly breathtaking!

Dates: March 1 (Sun) – May 31 (Sun), 2026
Furusato Onga River Koinobori Festival (Nakama City)

A signature spring event in Nakama City. Every year from April to May, the "Nakama Sansedai Fureai no Kai" (Nakama Three-Generation Interaction Association) raises numerous carp streamers (koinobori) at the Onga Riverbed Citizens' Ground (Multi-purpose Plaza). Lie down on the grass of the vast riverbed and enjoy the peaceful sight of about 150 koinobori swimming leisurely!

Dates: April 4 (Sat) – May 8 (Fri), 2026
Aburayama River Koinobori (Fukuoka City)

155 carp streamers (koinobori) will be displayed along the Aburayama River, which flows between Iihara Elementary School and Hara Junior High School. A "Koinobori Sketching Event" will be held on April 26 (Sat) from 9:00 to 12:00. Participation is free, and no prior registration is required. Please bring your preferred art supplies, such as paints, crayons, or colored pencils (drawing boards and drawing paper will be provided). Participation prizes are available for elementary school students.

Dates: April 5 (Sun) – May 9 (Sat), 2026
Takanobori Lottery (Fukuoka City)

BOSS E・ZO FUKUOKA is hosting the "Takanobori Lottery" for visitors who spend 3,000 yen or more within the facility! Prizes include "Takanobori" (hawk streamers, approx. 1.2m) hand-signed by popular players and mini Takanobori flags. Additionally, photo spots will appear at three locations in the Momochi area, where you can take pictures with panels and "Takanobori" featuring your favorite players.

Dates: April 7 (Tue) – 9 (Thu), April 14 (Tue) – 19 (Sun), and May 1 (Fri) – 6 (Wed, Substitute Holiday), 2026
Murasakigawa Koinobori Festival (Kitakyushu City)

This event is held as part of the "Town planning utilizing the Murasaki River" initiative. Colorful carp streamers (koinobori), donated by local residents and others, flutter in the vast sky against the backdrop of the cherry blossoms at Mount Korangi. The sight of approximately 600 carp streamers viewed from Sakurabashi Bridge, which spans the middle reaches of the Murasaki River, is breathtaking! It is a perfect viewing spot.

Dates: April 12 (Sun) – May 9 (Sat), 2026
Roadside Station "Harazuru" Koinobori (Asakura City)

This event has been held annually since 2016. Approximately 130 carp streamers (koinobori), donated by the Basaro User Association and local residents, are raised and seen swimming comfortably in the breeze.

Dates: April 13 (Mon) – May 15 (Fri), 2026 (Scheduled end)
Koi-Koi-Koi (Miyama City)

Held every year on May 5th, "Children's Day," this event celebrates the healthy growth of children with approximately 250 carp streamers (koinobori) flying in the air. The festival is packed with fun activities, including a sketching contest, a cardboard maze, karate performances on stage, boccia experiences, and a bazaar! You can also enjoy feeding adorable ponies.

Event Date: May 5 (Tue, Public Holiday), 2026
Carp Streamer Display: April 25 (Sat) – May 5 (Tue, Public Holiday)
Nijo Akamai Direct Sales Center Koinobori (Itoshima City)

Between 120 and 150 carp streamers (koinobori) swim leisurely above the rice fields around the Nijo Akamai Direct Sales Center located in Nijo Yoshii, Itoshima City. Since the streamers are taken indoors to "rest" on rainy days, please be sure to visit on a sunny day.

Dates: Late April – Late May 2026 (Scheduled)

Early Summer Tradition on the Chikugo River: Etsu Fishing Season Opens! (Okawa City & Kurume City)

Etsu (Japanese grenadier anchovy) is a rare fish found only in the Ariake Sea within Japan. In early summer, it swims upstream to the lower reaches of the Chikugo River for spawning. The fishing season lasts for less than three months a year, and because it is difficult to distribute over long distances, it is a special delicacy that can only be enjoyed locally. The taste is light and refreshing, and it can be enjoyed in various dishes such as sashimi, sushi, tempura, deep-fried (karaage), and simmered.

Dates: May 1 (Fri) – July 20 (Mon, Public Holiday), 2026

Other Gourmet Events

Munakata Local Fish Chazuke Festival: Only Now! Only Here! Sea Bream Chazuke (Munakata City)

The "Munakata Local Fish Chazuke Festival" allows you to enjoy seasonal fish in the form of "chazuke," a traditional local dish. In spring, the main star is the sea bream (tai) caught in Munakata. Enjoy comparing various chazuke bowls that feature specially crafted broths, sauces, and unique preparation methods!

Dates: Currently ongoing – May 15 (Fri), 2026
Ogori Spring Festa 2026 (Ogori City)

Centered around the two major themes of sweets and gourmet, dessert shops and restaurants from within and outside Ogori City will offer confections such as "Lover's Sanctuary PR Sweets" and their signature dishes. Stage performances and hands-on experience events are also scheduled.

Date: May 24 (Sun), 2026
Yahata Gyoza Festival 2026 (Kitakyushu City)

Hearty, stamina-filled dumplings (gyoza) have long been a favorite in the "Steel Town" of Yahata. Popular gyoza shops from Fukuoka, Miyazaki, and beyond will gather, featuring the local signature "Yahata Gyoza"! A wide variety of unique dumplings will be available, including classic pan-fried gyoza, bamboo shoot gyoza, and horumon (offal) gyoza.

Dates: May 29 (Fri) – May 31 (Sun), 2026

Rose Events

Nomiyama Kannonji Rose Festival (Sasaguri Town)

In conjunction with the special viewing of the Yugi Daihoto Great Pagoda, the "Kaentei" rose garden—usually closed to the public—will be open. The garden, which has expanded to approximately 2.5 times its previous size since 2025, features a variety of roses and perennials. The fresh greenery of the Dodan-tsutsuji (Enkianthus perulatus) and green maples is also a vivid sight to behold. During this period, special Goshuin (temple seals) and flower seeds will be granted to visitors.

Dates: May 23 (Sun) – June 14 (Sun), 2026

Ishibashi Cultural Center Spring Rose Fair 2026 (Kurume City)

Visitors can enjoy 2,600 rose bushes across 400 varieties. Highlights include the "Rose Garden in Front of the Museum," which features 18 popular varieties in a French-style garden; the "Fragrant Rose Garden," showcasing varieties with intense scents; and the "Celebrity Rose Garden," featuring roses named after famous individuals. Night illuminations will also be held.

Dates: May 2 (Sat) – May 24 (Sun), 2026
Hana-no-oka Park / Kitakyushu Municipal Integrated Agricultural Center: Spring Rose Fair (Kitakyushu City)

Set in a vast 3,200-square-meter rose garden, this event features special treats available only during this season, such as "Rose Soft-serve" with real rose petals mixed in, and "Drinking Rose" made with extract from Damask rose petals. Come and spend an elegant spring moment enveloped in the enchanting fragrance of roses.

Dates: May 9 (Sat) – May 31 (Sun), 2026

New Tea Event in Yame, the Tea Region

Kenchasai Festival at Reiganji Temple

A traditional event held to honor the virtues of Shuzui Zenji, the "tea ancestor" who is said to have brought back tea seeds from Ming China and taught tea production methods about 600 years ago. The ceremony also prays for the future development of the industry. On the day of the festival, Yamecha Yama-uta (tea mountain songs) will be performed as an offering, and a tea offering ceremony will be held.

Date: May 2 (Sat), 2026

View more
Hoshino New Tea Festival (Tea Museum)

In addition to the sale of new tea (shincha), the event is packed with activities to experience the charm of tea, such as traditional "Kama-iri tea making" (pan-fried tea), "Tocha-kai" (tea-guessing competition), hand-rolled tea demonstrations, and workshops on how to brew delicious tea.

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Holiday) – 5 (Tue, Holiday) and May 24 (Sun), 2026
Yame New Tea Festival (Bengara Village)

The "Yame New Tea Festival" is held to coincide with the arrival of the new tea season. It features tastings and sales of Yame shincha (new tea), tea brewing workshops, and many food stalls. On the stage, there will be various performances as well as the "Yame Tea-picking Maiden (Cha-musume) Queen Contest."

Date: May 5 (Tue, Public Holiday), 2026
Note: In case of bad weather, the event will be postponed to May 6 (Wed, Substitute Holiday).

Traditional Festivals / Jinkosai

Okinohata Suitengu Shrine Festival (Yanagawa City)

This festival has continued for over 150 years since the Meiji era, with prayers for protection against water-related disasters and for good health. Visitors can enjoy the hayashi (traditional music) and theatrical performances on the "Sanjin-maru," a floating stage made of six connected boats, as well as the magical atmosphere created by the lantern lights reflecting on the water's surface.

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Holiday) – 5 (Tue, Holiday), 2026

Itoda Gion Yamakasa (Itoda Town)

A traditional event with a history of over 300 years. This heroic festival features "decorated yamakasa" (floats) that reach up to 9 meters in height and weigh over 2 tons, carried through the town by residents from each district. To the rhythm of gongs (kane) and drums, the unique chant "Enyayassa, Korayassa" echoes through the streets. The floats are a sight to behold, featuring magnificent decorations such as warrior dolls reenacting battle scenes and models of castle walls crafted from cypress leaves and young bamboo.

Dates: May 9 (Sat) & 10 (Sun), 2026

Ohtomi Shrine Jinkosai (Buzen City)

One of the representative spring festivals of Buzen City, held annually from April 29 to May 1 as the spring ritual of Ohtomi Shrine. It is said to recreate the triumphal return of Ki no Umaro, a local official of Kamige District, who was recognized for his distinguished service in suppressing the "Rebellion of Fujiwara no Hirotsugu" in the year 740.

Dates: April 29 (Wed, Holiday) – May 1 (Fri), 2026
Unoshima Shrine Spring Jinkosai Festival (Buzen City)

A spring festival held following the Hachiya Gion. This event is a brilliant and lively celebration unique to the port town of Unoshima, which served as the foundation for Buzen City's prosperity.

Dates: May 3 (Sun, Holiday) – 5 (Tue, Holiday), 2026
Fuji Hachimangu Shrine River Crossing Festival (Tagawa City)

A grand and magnificent spectacle that has colored the early summer of Tagawa since the 16th century. Two of Japan's largest portable shrines (mikoshi) and 11 yamakasa floats march vigorously through the town, and the "River Crossing Ritual" across the Hikosan River is truly powerful and impressive.

Dates: May 16 (Sat) & 17 (Sun), 2026

View more

Sports & Activities

Sanix World Rugby Youth Tournament 2026 (Munakata City)

An international rugby tournament for the high school generation (under 18), often referred to as the "U18 World Cup." You can watch top-level schools play for free. A paid "Premium Seat" including all-you-can-eat, all-you-can-drink, and souvenirs is also available.

Dates: April 28 (Tue) – May 5 (Tue, Holiday), 2026
Itoshima Seining & BBQ Lunch (Itoshima City)

A plan to enjoy a seining (dragnet fishing) experience at Fukae Beach in West Itoshima. It includes a BBQ lunch, and if there is a large catch, you can take home the fish caught in the net. Please join us with your family or as a group!

Date: May 5 (Tue, Holiday), 2026
Mt. Sarakura Health Walk (Kitakyushu City)

Enjoy a refreshing walk while taking in the natural beauty of Mt. Sarakura—a famous landmark in Kitakyushu City—and discovering the local charm of the surrounding shopping districts!

Date: May 17 (Sun), 2026
Application Deadline: April 24 (Fri), 2026
Miyajidake Nature Trail Trekking (Fukutsu City)

After praying at Miyajidake Shrine, embark on a tour of the Okunomiya Eight Shrines. This trekking experience includes a purification ritual at Fudo Shrine before heading onto the Miyajidake Nature Trail. From the Aratsu-yama Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tsuyazaki and Miyaji Beaches—and on clear days, you might even see as far as Okinoshima Island.

Date: May 17 (Sun), 2026
Note: Registration required at least 3 days in advance.
15th Sakura Pharmacy Mizuho PayPay Dome Relay Marathon 2026 (Fukuoka City)

Your chance to run in "Mizuho PayPay Dome," the home of the SoftBank Hawks! The 15th Sakura Pharmacy Mizuho PayPay Dome Relay Marathon will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026. In addition to the 42.195km relay marathon for teams of up to 15 people, there will be the "Tyrannosaurus Race"—which was a huge hit last year—and a "Family Run" that everyone can enjoy together!

Date: May 16 (Sat), 2026
Forest Therapy Experience Buzen (Buzen City)

Why not refresh your mind and body while fully feeling the blessings of nature in Buzen City, wrapped in the pleasant spring weather? The "Buzen City Forest Therapy" program for Spring 2026 offers a variety of ways to heal your daily fatigue in beautiful natural surroundings.

Dates: April 12 (Sun) – June 21 (Wed), 2026

Clam Digging

Clam digging and beachcombing are popular activities to enjoy from spring through summer! It is a type of leisure where anyone, regardless of age, can lose track of time and get fully absorbed. Here, we introduce various spots within the prefecture where you can harvest Manila clams (asari) and razor clams (mate-gai).

Firefly Watching Spots

Fireflies can only be enjoyed for a brief window from late May to mid-June. Their delicate light dancing in the dark of night creates a magical atmosphere. Fireflies are very fragile creatures, so please enjoy observing them quietly without catching them or shining bright lights on them!

Wind Bell Spots

Mitsui Temple Wind Bell Tunnel (Tagawa City)

Locally known as the "Wind Bell Temple," Mitsuidera is the common name for Byōdō-ji, a temple of the Shingon Omuro sect. From late April to around September, a summer tradition appears in the garden next to the main hall: a tunnel of wind bells. This tunnel, approximately 2.5m wide and 50m long, features around 10,000 wind bells tinkling in the breeze, delighting the eyes and ears of visitors. During the "Soap Bubble Time" occurring twice an hour, countless bubbles dance through the temple grounds. The collaboration between the colorful paper strips swaying in the wind and the sparkling wind bells is magical. You can also purchase a wind bell, write a wish on the strip, and hang it yourself.

Dates: April 25 (Sat) – August 31 (Mon), 2026

View more
Sannoji Wind Bell Festival (Sasaguri Town)

Sannoji is well-known as one of the 88 temples on the Sasaguri Shikoku Pilgrimage. It is often called the "Tanuki Temple" because of the cute raccoon dog (tanuki) statues decorated throughout the grounds. The "Wind Bell Festival" is held annually from May to early October. Many visitors are drawn to the magnificent sight and beautiful sounds of approximately 4,000 colorful wind bells hand-decorated by the monks.

Dates: May 1 (Fri) – October 4 (Sun), 2026

View more
Nyoirinji Temple(Frog Temple) Wind Bell Festival (Ogori City)

Also known by the nickname "Frog Temple," Nyoirinji welcomes visitors with approximately 10,000 frog statues. Wind bells are believed to ward off evil, and thousands of them are displayed throughout the temple grounds, each carrying a wish for a safe summer. The sight of colorful paper strips swaying in the breeze is mystical and highly photogenic, while their cool chimes help you forget the summer heat.

Dates: Early April – Late August 2026 (Scheduled)

View more