{"id":177947,"date":"2026-06-12T17:38:09","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T08:38:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/?post_type=event&p=177947&lang=en"},"modified":"2026-07-02T16:42:18","modified_gmt":"2026-07-02T07:42:18","slug":"takumi-gallery-07-yamakasa","status":"publish","type":"event","link":"https:\/\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/en\/event\/takumi-gallery-07-yamakasa\/","title":{"rendered":"Traditional Crafts Behind Hakata Gion Yamakasa"},"content":{"rendered":"

For 785 years, Hakata Gion Yamakasa has been one of Fukuoka\u2019s defining summer traditions. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, the festival has been shaped by the faith and pride of local communities, as well as the craftsmanship of generations of artisans. Behind the festival\u2019s vibrant spectacle are some of Fukuoka\u2019s most celebrated traditional crafts, including Hakata Ningyo (doll), Hakata-ori (Hakata Textiles), and Kurume Kasuri weaving.<\/p>\n

This summer, Takumi Gallery at ACROS Fukuoka presents a special exhibition exploring the traditional crafts behind Hakata Gion Yamakasa. Through displays of festival attire and Kakiyama float figures, live demonstrations by artisans, and hands-on workshops, visitors can discover the craftsmanship, techniques, and artistry that help bring one of Japan\u2019s most celebrated festivals to life.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

Special Exhibition<\/h2>\n

Traditional crafts used in Hakata Gion Yamakasa will be showcased throughout the exhibition.<\/p>\n

1. Festival Attire Display<\/h4>\n

See traditional attire worn during Hakata Gion Yamakasa, including Toban happi coats worn by festival officials, mizuhappi coats worn by Yamakasa float (Kakiyama) carriers, and traditional tenugui hand towels. English and Japanese panels explain the festival and the significance of these garments.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

2. Kakiyama Float Figure Display (Hakata Dolls)<\/h4>\n

A selection of decorative figures created for the 2025 Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival will be exhibited following the dismantling of those floats. These impressive works originally adorned the festival\u2019s iconic Kakiyama floats.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

3. Masterpieces of Hakata-ori and Kurume Kasuri<\/h4>\n

This exhibition features exceptional works by highly skilled traditional artisans, including rare one-of-a-kind pieces by master Hakata doll makers and works by members of the Kurume Kasuri Preservation Association, whose weaving techniques are recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. Traditional kimono styling displays and representative works by leading craftspeople will also be showcased.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/p>\n

The exhibition also includes a Hakata-ori loom and a wide variety of traditional crafts that showcase Fukuoka\u2019s rich artisanal heritage.<\/p>\n

Live Craft Demonstrations<\/h2>\n

On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays during the exhibition period, artisans specializing in Hakata dolls, Hakata-ori, and Kurume Kasuri will demonstrate their craft in person. Visitors can watch the creative process up close while learning about traditional techniques and design motifs through talks accompanied by English, Chinese and Korean interpretation. Those who wish may also have the opportunity to try selected stages of the production process themselves.<\/p>\n