The Tobata Gion Oyamagasa, affectionately known as “Chochinyama,” is a shrine festival with a history spanning over 200 years. The festival, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site, unfolds over three days, typically around the fourth Saturday in July every year.
The festival’s distinctive feature is the transformation of the floats, or Yamakasa, from banner-adorned structures during the day, to lantern floats at night. During the daytime, eight Yamakasa floats parade through the streets, showcasing a vibrant spectacle. As night falls, each Yamakasa undergoes a stunning transformation, becoming a towering pyramid of light composed of 12 tiers, with 309 candle-lit lanterns stacked atop each other.
The festival’s excitement peaks on the evening of the second day, with a competition involving approximately 100 participants carrying the luminous floats. This traditional event showcases a unique blend of cultural heritage and community spirit, making it a must-see event.
• 7/21 (Fri.) ~ 7/23 (Sun.)
• Main procession on 7/22 (Sat.): 18:30~21:00
• Free viewing
• In front of Tobata Ward Office and surrounding areas
• 1-1-1 Senbo, Tobata-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka
• http://tobatagion.jp/
