Today is the first day of the Hojoya Festival in Hakata, Fukuoka!
This centuries-old celebration brings in more than a million people each year – the festival is all about giving thanks for nature, honoring all living beings, and wishing for things like good business and family health. The festival runs every year from September 12 to 18 at Hakozaki Shrine.
Since it’s an odd-numbered year, visitors get to witness something special – the Gojinkō (御神幸) mikoshi procession. On September 12 and 14, around 500 local parishioners (called ujiko) carry a portable shrine through the streets, accompanied by the sounds of drums and bells.
With around 500 stalls lining the shrine approach, you’ll find all the classics street foods – takoyaki, candied apples, yakitori, fried squid – plus fun and quirky game booths like goldfish scooping, vintage-style pinball, and haunted houses. On the final day, there’s a symbolic ceremony where birds and fish are released back into nature.
If anyone happens to be in Fukuoka for the next 7 days, be sure to check it out.
by missinginactionnn