Guide
Aichi Kunchi is a traditional autumn festival held at Kumano Shrine in Aichi-cho, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. The most striking feature of this festival is the 'Haguma Procession,' which recreates the grand processions of the Ogaswara-sama, the former lords of the Karatsu Domain. This procession is considered a highly rare and precious traditional art form in Japan. During the festival, the streets of Aichi come alive with energy as local residents perform traditional rituals and grand processions.
Aichi Kunchi preserves the cultural legacy of the Ogasawara clan, the former rulers of the Karatsu Domain. The Hagusa Procession, modeled after the daimyo's grand entourage, plays a vital role in symbolizing the region's history. The sacred Shinto rituals of the main festival are held on October 17th and are reserved for those involved in the shrine. This festival serves as a crucial cultural event to maintain community bonds and pass traditions down to the next generation.
The highlights of the festival are the 'Haguma Procession' and the 'Yamakasa Procession' held on Saturday. During the Haguma Procession, participants perform a dynamic movement where they pass a 'Koyari'—a spear approximately 3.5m long and weighing about 20kg—from one person to another. Following the procession is the massive 'Yamakasa' float, reaching a height of about 7m, which creates an overwhelming and awe-inspiring presence. Other notable events include the Mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, the Yoto (children's) procession, Nakayama Ukitate, and the Ono Daikoku dance, each adding unique layers to the festivities.
Aichi Kunchi takes place over three days in mid-October. The schedule typically includes 'Yoiyama' (evening festivities) on Friday, the main 'Haguma Procession,' 'Mikoshi Procession,' and 'Yamakasa Procession' on Saturday, and the 'Children's Haguma Procession' and 'Yamakase Gyore' on Sunday. Saturday is the most energetic time to visit, as the heavy movement of the Koyari and the appearance of the giant Yamakasa-float provide the most spectacular sights.
Visitors can observe the deeply rooted traditional movements of the processions up close. The sight of participants passing the heavy Koyari spear is a unique spectacle found only here. You can also feel the vibrant energy of the community through the participation of local children in the 'Yoto' and 'Children's Haguma' processions, offering a precious opportunity to touch the living culture of the region.
The festival is centered around the Aichi-shuku street area (near the Aichi Branch Office and Kumano Shrine). This area features a historic atmosphere with traditional streetscapes, making it the best place to feel the heat and excitement of the festival up close.
As you will be moving along with the procession, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Regarding payments, please carry cash, as local food stalls and nearby shops may not accept credit cards. English support is limited, so it is wise to check maps and routes in advance. Since the Shinto rituals are strictly observed, please be respectful and avoid obstructing the path of the procession.