More than 500 festival stalls line the roughly 1 km approach stretching straight from Hakozaki Shrine toward the sea during Hojoya, one of Fukuoka’s best-known autumn traditions. From candy apples and grilled squid to goldfish scooping, shooting games and even a haunted house, the festival retains the lively atmosphere of an old-fashioned Japanese fair.
Held every year from Sep 12 to 18 over seven days and nights, Hojoya originated as a ritual expressing respect for all living things and gratitude for the lives that sustain everyday existence. The tradition has continued at Hakozaki Shrine for more than 1,000 years, and the festival is also associated with giving thanks for the autumn harvest and praying for business prosperity and safety at home.
There is no Goshinko procession in 2026, but ceremonies and performances continue throughout the week. Highlights include the Hojoya Grand Festival on Sep 15, followed by the Hojo Ritual and Children’s Procession on the final day, Sep 18. Kagura, Hakata spinning-top performances and taiko drumming are also presented as ritual offerings during the festival.
Visitors can also look out for Hakozaki specialties traditionally associated with Hojoya, including fresh ginger sold with its leaves still attached, Hojoya chanpon and decorative Hojoya ohajiki. During the day, the shrine grounds and displays can be explored at a leisurely pace; from dusk, the long approach takes on a different atmosphere as the festival stalls light up.
Tip: Hakozaki-Miyamae Station on the Fukuoka City Subway opens directly onto the shrine approach, making Hojoya easy to visit after work or as an early-evening family outing.
- Sep. 12, 2026 (Sat) ~ Sep. 18, 2026 (Fri)
- Free entry
- Hakozaki Shrine
- 1-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
- Website
- Fukuoka Now Guide
