Autumn in Hakata is not complete without a visit to Hakozaki Shrine. As many as a million people are said to visit the shrine during the festival. The Hojoya festival originates from the teachings of the Hachiman deity and has continued for more than 1,000 years to give thanks for the blessings of nature and the souls of living creatures, as well as for praying for successful business and the safety of families.
More than 500 stalls line both sides of the 1-kilometer-long approach from the Otorii gate to the main shrine building. Fukuoka is preparing “Hojoya Guide 2022,” featuring background on the origin of Hojoya and how to enjoy it. Check back here to read it before attending the festival.
Here are some of the events within the festival this year.
• Shrine ceremonies: Shonichi-sai ~ Hojoya Taisai a~ Nousai, Kencha-sai, Kenka-sai, Kenka-sai, Hojo Shinji, etc.
• Celebratory events: Children’s parade, Hojoya sketch exhibition, Hojoya dove lottery, Ikenobo flower arrangement exhibition, Bonbori lantern offering, Hojoya chanpon, and ohajiki exhibition, etc.
Note: While most events will take place, as usual, this year, some events are scaled back or canceled due to the Covid-19 disaster.
• 9/12 (Mon.) ~ 9/18 (Sun.)
• 10:00~22:00
• Hakozaki Shrine
• 1-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• 092-641-7431
• https://www.hakozakigu.or.jp/omatsuri/houjoya/
Hojoya Festival Guide 2022
Hojoya history and festival highlights in English and Japanese
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/hojoya-guide/
