Karatsu Kunchi Festival — Dragon and Turtle Parade
The Karatsu Kunchi (November 2–4) is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Fourteen enormous lacquered floats (hikiyama) — each one a different creature or mythological figure, built with artistry indistinguishable from fine furniture — are pulled through the historic streets of Karatsu by teams of men in matching happi coats. The floats were built between 1819 and 1845 and have been maintained by the same neighborhoods ever since. The Hikiyama Exhibition Hall displays all 14 floats year-round.
Essential Information
Opening Hours
Hikiyama Exhibition Hall: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM year-round | Festival parade: November 2–4 annually
Closed: Exhibition Hall: open year-round | Festival: November 2–4 only
Entrance Fee
Exhibition Hall: ¥500 | Festival parade: free to watch
Best Season
November 2–4 for live festival | Year-round for float exhibition hall
Visit Duration
1 hour (exhibition hall) | Full day for festival (November 2–4)
Getting There
Access Information
Insider Guide
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