Karatsu Kunchi: dates, venue and how to get there
Karatsu · 唐津くんち
What to expect
Hikiyama floats shaped like sea bream, lions and other figures move through Karatsu. Daylight reveals their forms and decorations; evening lanterns create a different scene.
Photo: Michil.K · CC BY-SA 4.0
Original date label: 2020-02-25 · Resized for display; the source file and reuse licence are linked below.
Festival dates and programme
Usual season · dates not confirmed
Usually 2–4 November
This is a usual season or past programme; it does not confirm the next edition. Programme times are in JST. Japan is 3 hours 30 minutes ahead of IST. Check the organiser’s latest notices for individual performances, weather changes and tickets.
Where the festival takes place
Karatsu · 唐津
Karatsu Shrine and city float streets
唐津神社・市内曳行コース
The location below marks one representative venue or route section. It is not the whole procession or every entrance; use the organiser’s venue map for your programme.
Getting there by train or bus
From Fukuoka, use the subway airport line and JR Chikuhi Line towards Karatsu. Some services require a change. Walk from Karatsu Station to the shrine or chosen route section.
Find a public transport route from your starting point ↗History and local traditions
Karatsu Kunchi is the shrine’s autumn festival, with roughly four centuries of tradition associated with harvest and prosperity.
Plan your visit
Choose a daytime programme for float details or the evening procession for lanterns. Use the annual route map for the specific float movements.
Editorial suggestion based on the festival’s venues and viewing format; no personal attendance is claimed.
Karatsu Kunchi: questions travellers ask
When is Karatsu Kunchi?
Karatsu Kunchi: Usually 2–4 November. This is the usual season or a reviewed past programme, not confirmation of the next edition.
How do I get to Karatsu Kunchi by public transport?
From Fukuoka, use the subway airport line and JR Chikuhi Line towards Karatsu. Some services require a change. Walk from Karatsu Station to the shrine or chosen route section.
Can I use any Fukuoka subway train to reach Karatsu directly?
No. Services and connections differ. Check whether your train continues onto the JR Chikuhi Line and whether a change is needed for Karatsu.
Official programme and sources
- www.karatsu-kankou.jp: Official festival and visitor guidance ↗
- www.japan.travel: Official location, transport or historical reference ↗
Reviewed . Some official pages are in Japanese. Open the source for this edition’s venue, daily programme and access conditions.