"Hakata Gion Yamakasa" is a traditional festive event which has been carried out for more than 770 years, and is held from 1st to 15th July every year in Fukuoka, Japan. However, this year, it was announced that the event will be postponed due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. Although it had been suspended for few years in the past due to wars, this is the first time after the war. Usually, during the festival, many gorgeous Kazariyamakasa (decorative floats) will be decorated around many places in Fukuoka City, and there will be 7 types of Kakiyamakasa carried through the streets by strong Kakite (people who carry the floats) who can be seen wearing happi coats. Unfortunately, it seems like we need to keep the long wait until next year. While there are various theories about its origin, it is said that "Hakata Gion Yamakasa" started as a prayer for health by warding off plagues. Hence, what we can do now is to pray for an end for the pandemic, and hope for the day when we can say "Yamakasa ga aruken Hakata tai (lit.: Yamakasa makes Hakata!)!" to come!

Also, you may review the amazing photos posted by asianbeat in the previous years in the "Hakata Gion Yamakasa Kazariyama / Kakiyama Photo Report"! (Editorial Dept: Non)