Akihaku – Autumn Events and Festivals in Hakata
During autumn in Hakata, a variety of events and festivals take place under the banner of “Akihaku,” celebrating the area’s unique charm. The Hakata Old Town, within walking distance from Hakata Station, is home to historical temples, shrines, and traditional shopping streets, offering a rich cultural experience. Highlights include the “Hakata Old Town Light-up Walk,” where visitors can explore the illuminated streets, and the one-day “Hakata Tomyo Watching,” which lights up the town with thousands of lanterns. Experience the vibrant traditions of Hakata this autumn with a leisurely stroll through the area.
Hakata Akihaku Official Website: http://hakata-akihaku.com/
Event schedule
This guide is constantly being updated with more Akihaku events. Check back for more events! (last updated: Sep. 24, 2024)
August
• Oohama Nagarekanjo (8/24~26)
September
• Sumiyoshi Festival (9/1)
• Canal Illumination (9/1~2/28)
• Regular Performances by Hakata Geisha (9/12, 28, 10/10, 26, 11/14, 30)
• Exhibition of Large Lantern Paintings (9/13~11/4)
• Nakasu Jazz 2024 (9/14, 15)
• Fan Week (9/14~29)
• Hakata Paradise Revival: One-Night-Only Lounge (9/20)
• Bayside Festival 2024 (9/21, 22)
• Hakata Doll Exhibition – The Joy of Hakata Dolls (9/25~11/24)
• Walk Walk Hakata (9/29~11/4)
October
• Hakata Akihaku Stamp Rally 2024 (10/1~11/30)
• Hakata Old Town Festival (10/3~11/24)
• Autumn Bayside Walking! Let’s Walk in Hakata City (10/12)
• The Oriental Market (10/12, 13)
• Sumiyoshi Shrine Reitaisai (10/13)
• Fukuoka Oktober Fest 2024 (10/18~10/27)
• Hakata Toumyou Lantern Arts Festival 2024 (10/19)
• Festa do Brasil Fukuoka (10/20)
• Hakata Okunchi (10/23, 24)
• Nakasu Festival (10/25, 26)
• Create Light Art
November
• Hakata Old Town Light-up Walk 2024 (11/1~11/4)
• Live@Museum (11/1, 15, 29)
• Fukuoka History and Culture Week (11/1~12/1)
• Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum Thanksgiving Festival 2024 (11/2, 3)
• Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament (11/10~11/24)
• Otojiro Kawakami Memorial (11/11)
• Hakataori Exhibition (11/15~11/17)
• Kawabata Night Festival (11/30)
August
Oohama Nagarekanjo
The Oohama Nagarekanjo is a traditional event held annually from August 24th for three days in the former Oohama district of Hakata Ward (Taihaku-machi and part of Kamiya-machi). It began in the mid-Edo period to honor the victims of a violent storm and plague in Hakata Bay and continues to this day. During the event, large lanterns adorned with warrior paintings are displayed, historical warrior paintings are exhibited, and numerous food stalls line the streets, attracting many visitors, especially locals. Known as the “Nagarekanjo of the coast” in contrast to the “Yamakasa of the hills,” it is considered a festival marking the end of summer in Hakata.
福岡市
• 8/24 (Sat.) ~ 8/26 (Mon.)
• 18:00~22:00
• Free viewing
• Around Taihaku-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://hakatanomiryoku.com/event/5822.html
September
Sumiyoshi Festival
The “Sumiyoshi Festival” was started by local volunteers as a way to bring together the diverse residents of Sumiyoshi, from those living in old houses and apartments to modern condos. The event takes place at Sumiyoshi Shrine, a historic gathering place and landmark in the area. The festival features ten food stalls offering dishes like curry, Vietnamese cuisine, and sweets, along with entertainment from artists and performers connected to Sumiyoshi. It’s a laid-back event where visitors can enjoy delicious food and relax in the community atmosphere.
• 9/1 (Sun.) *slight rain or shine, canceled in case of inclement weather
• 12:00~20:00
• Free entry
• Sumiyoshi Shrine (south side of the precincts)
• 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://sumiyoshimatsuri.com/2024-09
Canal Illumination
The popular winter illumination at Canal City, a seasonal tradition, will start earlier this year, beginning in September. The lights will gradually illuminate, starting with the street trees outside the building, the Earth Walk wall, and the Tree of Knowledge on the south side of the Sun Plaza Stage in the center of the complex.
CANAL CITY HAKATA 2024 Ⓒ FJ. Entertainment Works
• 9/1 (Sun.) ~ 2/28 (Fri.)
• 17:00~24:00
• Free viewing
• Canal City Hakata
• 1-2 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://canalcity.co.jp/news/event/4108
Regular Performances by Hakata Geisha
Experience the rich tradition of Hakata culture at the Hakata Traditional Performing Arts Center, conveniently located near the Kushida Shrine. Serving as both an office for Hakata Kenban and a practice venue, this center hosts bi-monthly performances by Hakata Geisha. Attendees have the opportunity to sit and appreciate the graceful dances performed by the Hakata Geisha. Following the performance, the event offers a variety of interactive experiences. Guests can partake in traditional parlor games, engage in a Q&A session with the Geisha, and even capture the moment with a commemorative photo. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in Hakata’s traditional culture, all while enjoying the artistry and elegance of the local Geisha.
• 9/12 (Thu.), 9/28 (Sat.), 10/10 (Thu.), 10/26 (Sat.), 11/14 (Thu.), 11/30 (Sat.)
• Thu., 16:00~16:50 / Sat., 13:00~13:50
• ¥3,000 (20 people, first-come-first-served basis) *registration required via the official website or phone
• Hakata Traditional Peforming Arts Center
• 2-20 Reisen-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• 092-441-1118
• https://hakata-geinou.jp
Exhibition of Large Lantern Paintings
In the coastal regions along Hakata Bay, there is a custom of creating large lanterns using Japanese paper, measuring approximately 2 meters by 4 meters, adorned with warrior paintings and other designs. These lanterns are displayed along the streets during local shrines’ and temples’ summer festivals. This tradition, which began in the mid-Edo period to honor the victims of storms and epidemics, serves both as offerings to deities and as displays that evoke a sense of the extraordinary for visitors.
This year, after the lanterns have been displayed in various locations, around 60 large lantern paintings from across Fukuoka will be exhibited together at the Fukuoka City Museum. This exhibition provides a deep insight into the local charm and culture of the region.
大灯籠絵「大江山鬼神退治之図」／福岡市漁業協同組合箱崎支所蔵
• 9/13 (Fri.) ~ 11/4 (Mon., hol.)
• 9:30~17:30 (last entry 17:00)
• Closed: Mon. (open if Mon. is a hol. and closed next day)
• ¥1,200, college & HS ¥800, free for under JHS
• Fukuoka City Museum 2F Special Exhibition Room
• 3-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• https://museum.city.fukuoka.jp/exhibition/special/2024/otouroue/
Nakasu Jazz 2024
The sounds of jazz will envelop Nakasu, the largest entertainment district in western Japan, during the annual urban music festival, Nakasu Jazz. This event features a wide range of live performances by artists active both in Japan and abroad, taking place at various locations throughout Nakasu.
• 9/14 (Sat.), 9/15 (Sun.)
• 17:00~22:00 (approx.)
• Free entry
• Nakasu area, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• http://nakasujazz.net
Hakata Paradise Revival: One-Night-Only Lounge
Once a popular entertainment destination featuring a roller coaster, accommodations, and hot springs, “Hakata Paradise” was Kyushu’s premier amusement facility. The only remnant from that era is the Hakata Port Tower, whose observation deck will be exclusively reserved for a DJ event as part of the BAYSIDE FESTIVAL’s pre-party. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Hakata Port Tower, this one-night-only luxury lounge will feature special DJ performances by Yasuharu Konishi, Hibiki Tokiwa, and Sohki Takeuchi. This year, alcohol will also be available.
• 9/20 (Fri.)
• 19:00~22:00
• Free entry
• Hakata Port Tower
• 14-1 Chikkohon-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://www.instagram.com/p/C-eTnJCCOpg/?img_index=1
Bayside Festival 2024
Bayside Place’s largest music festival returns with this year’s theme, “CREATE THE BAY CULTURE.” The event features four stages, including a main stage by the sea and a special DJ zone with top-notch sound systems, hosting live performances from 11 different artists. On the first day, attendees can enjoy a live performance on a cruise ship touring Hakata Bay, offering a uniquely open and coastal vibe. The night before the festival (Sep 20), there will be a special pre-event called “Hakata Paradise,” where the observation deck of Hakata Port Tower will be transformed into an exclusive lounge with a DJ, drinks, and stunning views.
• 9/21 (Sat.), 9/22 (Sun.)
• 13:00~20:00
• Free entry
• Bayside Place Hakata
• 13-6 Chikkohon-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://www.baysideplace.jp/bayfes2024
Musicians
1. Billyrrom @billyrrom
2. Summer Eye @s_e_ntm
3. Junpei Shiina @junpei417
4. Yohlu @yohlu_official
5. SetagayaGenico @setagayagenico
6. Hidefumi Ino & Hiroshi Fujiwara @ino_hidefumi
7. Yasuyuki Horigome @yasuyuki_horigome
8. Hitomitoi @hitomitoijoy
9. Lil Summer feat. Romderful @_lilsummer_ / romderful
10. Aldo Van Eyck @aldo_van_eyck
11. Momoko Iwasaki @momoko_mokomoko_
October
The Oriental Market
Sumiyoshi Shrine, long known as a protector of maritime safety, will host an open-air market with an international exchange theme. Around 50 unique stalls will line the shrine’s approach, offering goods and cuisine from over 20 countries, including South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Many of the vendors are local shops or foreign residents, making this market a popular spot for those looking to connect with the community.
• 10/12 (Sat.), 10/13 (Sun.) *in case of inclement weather, it will be postponed to 10/19 and 10/20
• 10:00~17:00
• Free entry
• Sumiyoshi Shrine
• 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• http://sweetrocketplus.com/dai/dai.html
Sumiyoshi Shrine Reitaisai
The Sumiyoshi Shrine, the oldest of over 2,000 Sumiyoshi Shrines across Japan, has long been revered for ensuring maritime safety and protecting ships. The annual grand festival originated as a tribute of sumo wrestling and horseback archery (yabusame) to give thanks for the safe return of Empress Jingu from Korea.
The festival begins with a night celebration on the 12th at 4:00 p.m. On the 13th, the main shrine will host rituals starting at 10:00 a.m., including a sumo tournament with 40 local elementary and junior high school students, followed by a yabusame performance around 11:00 a.m. The closing ritual (Nohsai) will be held on the 14th at 10:00 a.m.
• 10/12 (Sat.) ~ 10/14 (Mon., hol.)
• Horseback archery event: 10/13 (Sun.) 11:00~
• Sumiyoshi Shrine
• 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://www.nihondaiichisumiyoshigu.jp/rituals/
Hakata Toumyou Lantern Arts Festival 2024
For one magical night, the central area of Hakata comes alive in a radiant glow, thanks to approximately 40,000 handmade lanterns crafted by local residents. This enchanting event illuminates the city’s landmarks, historical sites, temples, shrines, and narrow alleys. Drawing over 30,000 visitors annually, attendees can leisurely stroll through the streets, enjoying the intricate ground paintings visible from above and the elegant lanterns that light up the corners of the city.
• 10/19 (Sat.) *slight rain or shine
• 18:00~21:00
• Free entry
• Naraya area (Hakata elementary school), Reisen area (Kushida Shrine), Gokusho area, Ohama area, Hakata Riverain, JR Hakata Station, Jotenji-dori Ave., Hakata Sennen-no-Mon Gate
• http://hakata-toumyou.com
Hakata Okunchi
This traditional festival, with 1,200 years of history, gives thanks to the gods for the autumn harvest. On Oct. 24, from 14:00~, watch as an ox-drawn carriage pulls an ornate mikoshi (portable shrine), as well as the parade of children wearing traditional kimono and tate-eboshi (brimless headgear worn by court nobles), starting at Kushida Shrine and weaving around the Hakata area. On Oct. 22 and 23, look forward to events including Gokokuhojo Market selling seasonal fish (10:00~17:00), free amazake (Hakata Chikko Hamanomiya: Oct. 22, 10:00~15:00, Kushida Shrine: Oct. 23 10:00~15:00), Sentomyo (sunset~21:00, Oct. 23).
• 10/23 (Wed.), 10/24 (Thu.)
• Kushida Shrine
• 1-41 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Nakasu Festival
This vibrant festival takes place in Nakasu, Kyushu’s largest entertainment district. Nakasu’s main street will be transformed into a pedestrian paradise, lined with around 60 food and drink stalls. Highlights include the “Nakasu Kunihiro Onnamikoshi,” where 500 women carry a portable shrine through the streets, starting from Kunihiro Shrine (Sep 25 at 19:30, Sep 26 at 19:00), and the “Oiran Dochu,” featuring four women dressed in elaborate Oiran costumes parading slowly through the town.
On Sep 24, as a pre-festival event, the “Hashigozake Taikai” pub crawl will be held. Participants can visit three participating establishments, including well-known clubs and long-standing venues in Nakasu. Tickets are available on the day for ¥3,500 near Deai Bridge, or in advance for ¥3,000 via Lawson Ticket from October.
• 10/24 (Thu.) ~ 10/26 (Sat.)
• 18:00~22:30 (10/24: 20:00~21:30)
• Nakasu Area, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• http://nakasumatsuri.com/
Kyushu Live – Nakasu Matsuri: Where Women Take the Stage! (Otcober 27, 2023)
November
Hakata Old Town Light-up Walk 2024
Hakata’s annual nighttime event features the beautiful illumination of its historic temples, shrines, and gardens. Over four days, 14 venues—both free and paid—will open their doors, including areas usually closed to the public. This year’s lighting theme is “Dragons,” transforming the historical landscapes into artistic displays and offering a different, more enchanting side of Hakata after dark. For the first time, Eijuin Temple will be illuminated, and Fukuoka Daibutsu at Tochoji Temple will have a special nighttime opening for the first time in two years. Popular spots can get crowded, so plan to arrive early.
• 11/1 (Fri..) ~ 11/4 (Mon., hol.) *rain or shine
• 17:30~21:00 (last entry 20:45)
• Door ticket: Paper tickets ¥2,500, e-tickets ¥2,450 (¥200 discount for adv. tickets), free for JHS and under
• Fee required: Kushida Shrine, Ryuguji Temple, Jotenji Temple (Hojo, Kaizando), Tochoji Temple, Myorakuji Temple, Eijuin Temple, Engakuji Temple, Hongakuji Temple, Zendoji Temple, Myotenji Temple, Kaigenji Temple
• Free entrance: Jotenji Temple (Buddhist Hall), Ichigyoji Temple (only Sanmon Gate), Hakata Sennen-no-Mon Gate, Katsuragi Jizo-son
• https://www.hakata-light.jp/
Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament
When locals start seeing sumo wrestlers around the streets of Fukuoka, they know winter is near. The November Tournament, commonly known as the Kyushu Tournament, is an important event that wraps up the sumo year. The sound of bodies colliding resonates through the venue, allowing spectators to experience the excitement and intensity of Japan’s national sport. Tickets go on sale from September 14.
• 11/10 (Sun.) ~ 11/24 (Sun.)
• Fukuoka Kokusai Center
• 2-2 Chikkohon-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• http://www.sumo.or.jp/En/
Hakataori Exhibition
With a history spanning over 780 years, Hakataori is a renowned woven fabric that originated from techniques learned by Hakata merchants in China and was even presented as a tribute to the Edo Shogunate. Recognized as a traditional craft of Japan, the annual Hakataori New Works Appraisal event takes place every autumn at Jotenji Temple, a location deeply connected to Hakataori. This year marks the 122nd iteration of the event, offering a rare opportunity for the public to visit the usually private Jotenji Temple. Visitors can leisurely explore the temple’s stunning Japanese rock garden alongside the showcased Hakataori pieces.
• 11/15 (Fri.) 14:00~17:00, 11/16 (Sat.) 10:00~17:00, 11/17 (Sun.) 10:00~15:00
• Free entry
• Jotenji Temple
• 1-29-9 Hakata-ekimae, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• https://hakataori.or.jp/
Kawabata Night Festival
Kawabata Shopping Street, the arcade connecting Canal City and Hakata Riverain, will host a lively event featuring a flea market and a marché selling Fukuoka-grown vegetables and fruits along its 400-meter stretch. In the evening, a special dining area and stage will be set up, where visitors can enjoy live music. It’s an event where both adults and children can relax and have a good time.
• 11/30 (Sat.) *rain or shine
• 17:00~21:00 (part of the marche begin in the morning)
• Free entry
• Kawabata Shopping Arcade
• Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
• http://www.hakata.or.jp/
The “Hakata Sennen-no-Mon Gate” (Hakata Millennium Gate) stands as a symbol of Hakata Old Town, a historic area rich with temples and shrines. Located just a 10-minute walk from Hakata Station, this area offers more than just events and festivals—it’s also a charming place to explore on foot.
Explore Hakata on Foot – Gokusho Area Course
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/hakata-walking-tours1/
