First launched in 1988 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Kitakyushu City, Wasshoi Hyakuman Summer Festival has grown into the city’s largest citizen-participation summer event. It also offers a rare chance to experience several of Kitakyushu’s traditional festivals together, including Kokura Gion Daiko, Tobata Gion Oyamagasa, and Kurosaki Gion Yamagasa.
Centered around Kokura Station, Katsuyama Park, and the Kokura Castle area, the festival features large parades, stage performances, the famous Hyakuman Dance, food stalls, and fireworks. During the festival weekend, the entire downtown area takes on a lively summer atmosphere.
Evening is the best time to visit. Walking along the Murasaki River while exploring food stalls and watching parades or fireworks offers a classic Kitakyushu summer experience. The event is easy for first-time visitors to join and enjoy.
- Sep. 19, 2026 (Sat) ~ Sep. 20, 2026 (Sun)
- Katsuyama Park, Kokura Castle area, and surrounding venues
- Jonai, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
- https://wasshoi.info/