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While the vibrant spectacle of the Gion Yamakasa Festival draws crowds to Fukuoka in July each year, nestled in the foothills of northern Kyushu lies another Yamakasa event brimming with its unique charm: the Tagawa Yamakasa. Often overshadowed by its larger cousin, Tagawa’s Yamakasa offers a more intimate experience, immersing you in the heart of local tradition.

A Legacy Carved in Time

Dating back over 450 years, the Tagawa Yamakasa celebrates the deity of the Fuji Hachimangu Shrine. Legend tells of the deity embarking on a two-day, one-night journey across the Hikosan River. The festival serves as a vibrant escort, featuring two ornately decorated mikoshi (portable shrines) and eleven Yamakasa floats, each a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry.

Unleashing the River Dragon

The highlight of the festival is the breathtaking “Kawa Watari Shinkosai,” the river crossing procession. Held on the third Saturday and Sunday of May, witness the electrifying moment when the mikoshi and Yamakasa, adorned with vibrant colours and intricate carvings, are carried across the river by determined teams of men. The air crackles with energy as rhythmic chants and powerful drumming fill the atmosphere, creating a scene both awe-inspiring and deeply moving.

The Mikoshi and Yamakasa don’t simply cross the river, there is a lot of pomp, pageantry and playing involved as well! Water is said to be cleansing, so a lot of it gets everywhere!

How to get to the Tagawa Yamakasa festival

Reaching Tagawa is a simple from both Fukuoka and Kitakyushu. You can pay/transfer with an IC card like Suica or Pasamo at all stations.

From Hakata Station in Fukuoka, you have a couple of options:

• The fastest one involves three trains: take the Fukuohkuyataka Line from Hakata Station to Shin-Iizuka Station, switch to Gotoji Line to get to Tagawa-gotoji Station and then the last hop is the Hitahikosan Line to Tagawa-ita Station. This will take approximately 1.5 hours and costs ¥1,130 (as of February 2024).
• Alternatively, you can travel by bus. From Hakata Station, take the BRT bus on the Hakata Port INT’L Terminal line to the “Kuramoto (Hakata Elementary School)” stop, which is 2 stops. Then take the Limited Express Fukuokakenritsudaiga bus until you get to the Ita Station bus stop, which is in front of Tagawa-Ita Station. This will take about 2 hours.

From Tenjin Station in Fukuoka:

• The fastest way from Tenjin Station is to get on the Limited Express Fukuokakenritsudaiga bus at the Nishitetsu Tenjin Expressway Bus Terminal until you get to Ita Station bus stop, which is in front of Tagawa-Ita Station. This journey will take approximately 2 hours.
• Unfortunately, no train links exist between Tagawa and Nishitetsu Tenjin station, so another option is to take the underground lines to Hakata and then follow the instructions above for train links.

If Kitakyushu’s Kokura Station is your starting point:

• Catch the JR Hitahikosan and alight at Tagawa Station after a 50-minute ride.

More Than Just a Festival

While the festival is the main attraction, Tagawa offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore the serene Fuji Hachimangu Shrine, delve into the history of coal mining at the Tagawa Coal Mine Museum, or wander through the charming streets lined with traditional wooden houses.

Embrace the Local Spirit

The Tagawa Yamakasa is more than just a spectacle; it’s a window into the community’s spirit and dedication. Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere, engage with the locals, and discover the genuine warmth that lies beneath the festival’s vibrant exterior.

So, ditch the big-city crowds and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Tagawa. Experience the authentic spirit of a Yamakasa festival, where tradition thrives and community takes centre stage.

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