About the festival
Karatsu Kunchi brings spectacular hikiyama floats through the former castle town. On 3 November, pulling the floats into the sandy Otabisho is a major highlight.
Who is it for?
Travelers interested in large sculptural floats and a coastal castle town.
Photo: Michil.K · CC BY-SA 4.0
Original date: 2020-02-25. Original image or Commons thumbnail; no additional edits.
Dates and times
Usually 2–4 November
Usual season; next dates not confirmed. Times use JST. See the official programme for session times and changes.
Venue and parade route
Karatsu · 唐津
On 3 November the procession travels from Karatsu Shrine to the Nishinohama Otabisho. The 2nd's night route and the 4th's town route differ.
唐津神社・市内曳行コース
The map pin marks a reference venue, rather than every entrance or the full parade route.
Getting there by train or bus
- From Fukuoka, use the Airport subway and JR Chikuhi Line toward Karatsu, changing trains when required. Walk from Karatsu Station to the shrine or viewing streets.
What to see
- Sculptural hikiyama floats
- Otabisho pulling
- Evening procession
History and origins
The autumn shrine festival is described as having around four centuries of tradition, with prayers for harvests and prosperity.
Planning your visit
Our editorial suggestions for planning your trip.
Choose the evening floats or the main Otabisho event, and use the route map for that date.
Places to visit nearby
Karatsu Castle
唐津城
A castle with exhibits and views over the sea and town.
Visit by day, leaving time for the climb and the walk back to your chosen float street.
These stops and the suggested order are editorial recommendations. Check each venue's opening hours and festival-day road closures before travelling.
Karatsu Kunchi: common questions
When is Karatsu Kunchi?
Usually 2–4 November This is the usual season, rather than a confirmed timetable for the next edition. Times are Japan Standard Time (JST).
Where does Karatsu Kunchi take place?
On 3 November the procession travels from Karatsu Shrine to the Nishinohama Otabisho. The 2nd's night route and the 4th's town route differ.
How do I get to Karatsu Kunchi by public transport?
From Fukuoka, use the Airport subway and JR Chikuhi Line toward Karatsu, changing trains when required. Walk from Karatsu Station to the shrine or viewing streets.
Does the evening procession use the 3 November route?
The dates have different routes. Use the official map for the evening of the 2nd or the Otabisho event on the 3rd.
Official sources
- Festival and visitor guide 1 (www.karatsu-kankou.jp) ↗
- Festival and visitor guide 2 (www.japan.travel) ↗
Sources reviewed: .