One of Omuta’s signature summer festivals, this event traces its origins to a Gion festival that has been passed down since the city’s days as a thriving coal-mining town. With a history spanning more than 300 years, the festival is best known for its giant Daijayama floats, elaborately crafted in the form of enormous serpents. Accompanied by the sound of drums and bells, the floats parade through the city in a powerful display.
Among them, the six floats known collectively as the Gion Rokuzan are particularly impressive, measuring approximately 10 meters in length, 5 meters in height, and weighing up to three tons. After dark, the giant serpent heads breathe fire, creating a dramatic spectacle. Local tradition holds that placing a child inside a serpent’s mouth brings good health, and the louder the child cries, the better the fortune.
Festival highlights include the So-odori mass dance, in which around 10,000 participants fill the streets, and the grand Daijayama Parade that brings the celebrations to a close. The sight of giant serpent floats gathered from across Omuta and the surrounding area is a spectacular finale, reflecting the pride and energy of the local community.
おおむた「大蛇山」まつり振興会
- Jul. 25, 2026 (Sat) 17:20~21:50, Jul. 26, 2026 (Sun) 17:20~21:45
- Free viewing
- Taisho-machi Festival Plaza
- Taisho-machi, Omuta City, Fukuoka
- Website