“Hakata Matsubayashi” is a traditional event that marks the opening of the Hakata Dontaku festival. The Three Gods of Good Fortune—Fukujin, Ebisu, and Daikoku—ride on horseback through the city together with a procession of children, delivering blessings as they visit more than 150 businesses and organizations over two days. Their rounds are a familiar early-summer sight in Fukuoka.
The custom dates back to folk practices in which people dressed in festive attire and visited shrines, temples, and notable households to perform music and dance in celebration of the New Year. This tradition of sharing blessings through congratulatory visits has been passed down for approximately 850 years.
For details, see Fukuoka Now’s special feature, “Hakata Dontaku Guide.”
画像提供：福岡市民の祭り振興会
• May 3, 2026 (Sun., Hol); May 4, 2026 (Mon., Hol)
• 9:00~17:00
• Fukuoka City (route, live location map)
https://www.dontaku.fukunet.or.jp/view/matsubayashi/
Kyushu Live! – Hakata Dontaku – Matsubayashi Parade