{"id":91558,"date":"2025-09-22T11:00:40","date_gmt":"2025-09-22T02:00:40","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/?post_type=feature&p=91558&lang=en"},"modified":"2025-09-30T15:17:27","modified_gmt":"2025-09-30T06:17:27","slug":"hakata-akihaku-guide","status":"publish","type":"guide","link":"https:\/\/www.fukuoka-now.com\/en\/guides\/hakata-akihaku-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Hakata Akihaku Guide 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Akihaku – Autumn Events and Festivals in Hakata<\/strong>
\nDuring autumn in Hakata, a variety of events and festivals take place under the banner of \u201cAkihaku,\u201d celebrating the area\u2019s 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 \u201cHakata Old Town Light-up Walk,\u201d where visitors can explore the illuminated streets, and the one-day \u201cHakata Tomyo Watching,\u201d which lights up the town with thousands of lanterns. There\u2019s so much to see and do, but our staff especially recommends the Nakasu Festival with its all-women participants, a very authentic and exciting Oktoberfest, and horseback archery (yabusame) at Sumiyoshi Shrine.<\/p>\n

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Event schedule<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This guide is constantly being updated with more Akihaku events. Check back for more events! (last update: Sep. 29, 2025)<\/p>\n

September<\/b>
\n\u2022 Regular Performances by Hakata Geisha<\/a><\/span> (9\/11, 9\/27, 10\/9, 10\/18, 11\/13, 11\/29)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Japanese Painter Matsunaga Kanzan and His Cedar Partition Paintings<\/a><\/span> (9\/17~11\/9)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Machiya Furusatokan Museum 30th Anniversary Exhibition: \u201cAutumn Collection Exhibition\u2014Showcasing the Treasures of the Furusatokan\u201d<\/a> (9\/23~11\/24)<\/span><\/p>\n

October<\/b>
\n\u2022 Fukuoka Heritage Week<\/span><\/a> (10\/1~11\/30)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Walk Walk Hakata<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>10\/4\u301c11\/3<\/span>)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Kawabata Night Festival<\/a> <\/span>10\/11<\/span>)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Sweet Potato Marche (10\/11~13)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Autumn Bayside Walking! Let\u2019s Walk in Hakata City<\/span><\/a> (10\/12)<\/span>
\n\u2022 The Oriental Market<\/span><\/a> (10\/12~13)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Sumiyoshi Shrine Reitaisai<\/a><\/span> (10\/12~14)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Fukuoka Oktober Fest<\/a><\/span> (10\/17~10\/26)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Old Town Festival<\/span><\/a> (10\/17~11\/9)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Machiya Furusatokan Museum 30th Anniversary Exibition: \u201cLantern Tales: Bamboo Lanterns Illuminate Memories of Hakata’s Old Town\u201d<\/span> (10\/17~11\/9)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Toumyou Lantern Arts Festival<\/a><\/span> (10\/18)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Canal City Hakata: Travel Across Japan! Jujutsu Journey<\/span><\/a> (10\/24~11\/24)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Okunchi<\/a> (10\/25)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Kurenaijuku Storytelling Session (10\/26)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Nakasu Festival<\/a><\/span> (10\/31~11\/1)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Spirits Hakata Shochu Festival<\/a> (10\/31~11\/1)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Old Town Light-up Walk<\/a><\/span> (<\/span>10\/31~11\/3<\/span>)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Jotenji Temple Night Market & Live at Hakaza Sennen-no-mon Gate<\/a> (10\/31~11\/3)<\/p>\n

November<\/b>
\n\u2022 Hakata Machiya Furusatokan Museum 30th Anniversary Event: \u201cMeiji Hakata Travel Pictures\u201d Reconstruction (11\/1)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum Thanksgiving Festival<\/span><\/a> (11\/1~2)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Fukuoka Grand Sumo Tournament<\/a><\/span> (11\/9~11\/23)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Otojiro Kawakami Memorial (11\/11)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Hakataori Exhibition<\/a><\/span> (11\/14~16)<\/span>
\n\u2022 Special Exhibition at Jotenji Temple’s Enmyokaku Hall by Japanese Guide (11\/19~24)<\/p>\n

September<\/strong><\/h2>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Regular Performances by Hakata Geigi<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Experience the rich tradition of Hakata culture at the Hakata Traditional Performing Arts Center, conveniently located near Kushida Shrine. Serving as both an office for Hakata Kenban and a practice venue, this center hosts bi-monthly performances by Hakata Geigi (female entertainers known as Geisha in other parts of Japan). Attendees can sit and appreciate their graceful dances, then take part in interactive experiences such as traditional parlor games, a Q&A session, and commemorative photos. Same-day admission is also possible if seats are available. Don\u2019t miss this chance to immerse yourself in Hakata\u2019s traditional culture while enjoying the artistry and elegance of the local Geigi.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 9\/27 (Sat.), 10\/9 (Thu.), 10\/18 (Sat.), 11\/13 (Thu.), 11\/29 (Sat.)
\n\u2022 Thu., 16:00~16:50 \/ Sat., 13:00~13:50
\n\u2022 \u00a53,000 (20 people, first-come-first-served basis) *registration required via the official website<\/a>
\n\u2022 Hakata Traditional Peforming Arts Center
\n\u2022 2-20 Reisen-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/hakata-geinou.jp<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Japanese Painter Matsunaga Kanzan and His Cedar Partition Paintings<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This exhibition commemorates the 60th anniversary of the death of Japanese painter Matsunaga Kanzan (1902\u20131965), who was born and raised in Itoshima. Known for his talent from an early age, he later studied under Kikuchi Keigetsu in Kyoto before returning to his hometown, where he pursued his art while supporting the growth of the Fukuoka art community. On display are 30 panels of Shiki Kacho-zu Sugito-e (Four Seasons of Flowers and Birds cedar partition paintings) from the Fukuoka City Museum collection. These works, painted on both sides of cedar partitions that once decorated the Yusentei villa of the Kuroda clan, depict seasonal flowers and birds with a refined touch. The exhibition is presented in two rotations: until Oct 13, and from Oct 15.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 9\/17 (Wed.) ~ 11\/9 (Sun)
\n\u2022 9:30~17:30 (last entry 17:00)
\n\u2022 Closed: Mon. (open if Mon. is a hol. and closed next day)
\n\u2022 \u00a5200, college & HS \u00a5150, free for under JHS
\n\u2022 Fukuoka City Museum
\n\u2022 3-1-1 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/museum.city.fukuoka.jp\/exhibition\/625\/<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Hakata Machiya Furusatokan 30th Anniversary: Autumn Collection\u2014Treasures of the Furusatokan<\/strong><\/h3>\n

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the Hakata Machiya Furusatokan Museum presents a special exhibition featuring items collected since its opening. Tools and clothing from the Meiji and Taisho eras, once commonplace in households, are displayed together. Through these nostalgic artifacts, visitors can rediscover the resourcefulness and charm of daily life in the past.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 9\/23 (Tue., hol.) ~ 11\/24 (Mon., hol.)
\n\u2022 9:30~17:30 (Oct. & Nov. 10:00~18:00)
\n\u2022 Closed: 10\/27 (Mon.)
\n\u2022 Admission fee: \u00a5200 (Free for JHS and younger)
\n\u2022 Hakata Machiya Furusato-kan 2F
\n\u2022 6-10 Reisenmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.hakatamachiya.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n

October<\/strong><\/h2>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Kawabata Night Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Kawabata Shopping Street, the arcade connecting Canal City and Hakata Riverain, will host a lively event featuring a flea market and a march\u00e9 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.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 10\/11 (Sat.) *rain or shine
\n\u2022 17:00~21:00 (part of the flea market begin in the noon)
\n\u2022 Free entry
\n\u2022 Kawabata Shopping Arcade
\n\u2022 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/hakata.or.jp\/news\/70551\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

The Oriental Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n

An open-air international market will be held at Sumiyoshi Shrine (\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e), a historic Hakata site long known as a place to pray for safe travels. About 50 stalls will line the shrine\u2019s tree-shaded approach, offering food and crafts from over 20 countries including Africa, South America, Europe, and Asia. Celebrating its 15th year, the event also features live performances with African djembe and dance, Mongolian morin khuur, and Spanish guitar.<\/p>\n

\"Oriental<\/p>\n

\u2022 10\/11 (Sat.), 11:00~, 10\/12 (Sun.) ~ 10\/13 (Mon., hol.) 10:00~17:00 *in case of inclement weather, it will be postponed to 10\/19 and 10\/20
\n\u2022 Free entry
\n\u2022 Sumiyoshi Shrine
\n\u2022 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/daihakata.yz1\/<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Sumiyoshi Shrine Reitaisai<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 10\/12 (Sun.) ~ 10\/14 (Tue)
\n\u2022 Horseback archery event: 10\/13 (Mon., hol.) 11:00~
\n\u2022 Sumiyoshi Shrine
\n\u2022 3-1-51 Sumiyoshi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.nihondaiichisumiyoshigu.jp\/rituals\/<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Fukuoka Oktober Fest 2025<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Returning once again to Reisen Park, the ever-popular Oktoberfest has become a staple event in Fukuoka. As the only Oktoberfest in Japan officially recognized by the Bavarian Beer Association, this festival offers an authentic experience complete with 16 kinds of draft beer imported from Germany, beer cocktails, wines, and a delectable array of German cuisine including sausages, meat dishes, breads, and pastries. Inside a specially erected, circus-like tent, traditional musical ensembles from M\u00fcnchen will perform, ensuring a lively atmosphere day after day. Come join the festivities and raise a toast\u2014Prost!\u2014for a delightful time for all!<\/p>\n

\"Fukuoka<\/p>\n

\u2022 10\/17 (Fri.) ~ 10\/26 (Sun.)
\n\u2022 16:00~22:00 (Mon. to Fri.), 11:00~22:00 (Sat., Sun.)
\n\u2022 Free entry
\n\u2022 Reisen Park
\n\u2022 109 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/f-oktober.com\/<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Hakata Toumyou Lantern Arts Festival 2025<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 10\/18 (Sat.) *slight rain or shine
\n\u2022 18:00~21:00
\n\u2022 Free entry
\n\u2022 Ohama area<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Reisen area (Kushida Shrine)<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Naraya area (Hakata elementary school)<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Gokusho area<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Hakata Riverain<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Hakata Sennen-no-Mon Gate<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>JR Hakata Station<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>PDF map<\/span><\/a>)<\/span>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/hakata-toumyou.com\/<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Hakata Okunchi<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Held annually on Oct 23 and 24 at Kushida Shrine, this autumn festival dates back some 1,200 years and expresses gratitude for the harvest. Rituals begin at 10:00 on Oct 23, and at dusk the shrine grounds glow with a thousand lanterns. In 2025, a special shikinen sengu (rebuilding of the shrine every 25 years) takes place. On Oct 25 at 10:00, three mikoshi (portable shrines) pulled by ox carts and a children\u2019s procession will depart from Kushida Shrine to parade through Hakata. On Oct 24 at 11:00, a rice cake-throwing ceremony will be held in the shrine precincts.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 10\/23 (Thu.) ~ 10\/25 (Sat.)
\n\u2022 Kushida Shrine
\n\u2022 1-41 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

Nakasu Festival<\/strong><\/h3>\n

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, and the “Oiran Dochu,” featuring four women dressed in elaborate Oiran costumes parading slowly through the town.<\/p>\n

On Oct 30, 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 \u00a54,000 near Deai Bridge, or in advance for \u00a53,000 via Lawson Ticket.<\/p>\n

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\u2022 10\/30 (Thu.) ~ 11\/1 (Sat.)
\n\u2022 17:00~23:00 (10\/30: 19:30~)
\n\u2022 Nakasu Area, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka<\/a>
\n\u2022 https:\/\/www.nakasumatsuri.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n

Kyushu Live – Nakasu Festival 2023)<\/p>\n