Would you like to experience Japanese traditional culture while discovering the spirit of teamwork and determination that lies at the heart of local communities?

The Yamakasa festival in Iizuka City is a long-standing tradition passed down through generations. The sight of participants carrying the floats through the streets while shouting powerful chants creates an atmosphere filled with energy, excitement, and anticipation.

Even for local residents, opportunities to participate directly are limited. This tour offers a rare chance to experience the culture and traditions of Yamakasa from within the festival itself.

As part of this experience, you will join the event as a member ("Ato-oshi"), helping to push the Yamakasa float during the Oiyama run. Through this hands-on participation, you will feel the sense of unity among participants as well as the pride and spirit that the local community invests in the festival.

The experience consists of two sessions. The first session on July 17 is a practice day in preparation for the festival. July 18 is a rest day. The second session on July 19 is the actual festival participation day.

Although the start times differ, the overall flow of both days is similar. However, after the festival on the second day, a group dinner will be held to allow all participants to interact and celebrate together. Therefore, the second day will end later than the first.

On both days, participants should arrive at Shin-Iizuka Station, where the guide will meet the group. After everyone has gathered, the group will walk approximately 20 minutes to the venue.

Upon arrival, participants will then change into traditional Yamakasa attire with assistance from staff. After the dressing process, the guide will introduce the various elements of the outfit, including the Mizuhappi coat and traditional festival footwear. Then, explain the day's schedule and safety procedures.

Following the preparation, participants will train under the guidance of an instructor, learning the movements, running techniques, chants, and teamwork required to perform the role of rear support in the Yamakasa procession.

After the experience concludes, participants will change back into their own clothes, return the rental attire, and walk back to Shin-Iizuka Station with the guide before dismissal.

Meals

• Day 1 Bento lunch box

  participants only

• Day 2 Group dinner（BBQ）

  The participant's dinner is included in the tour price. Companions who wish to join the dinner may do so for an additional fee.

Yamakasa Attire and Equipment

• Full Mizuhappi outfit&Traditional shoes

  Rental items must be returned after use

Guide

• English-speaking/Chinese-speaking

Instructor

• Yamakasa instructor

• Transportation expenses

• Drinks

• Any expenses incurred by companions

• Any items not specifically listed under "What's Included"

• Sunscreen

• Drinking water

• Protective gear for knees, elbows, etc. (recommended)

• Up to 24 hours before the tour start date: Free

• If the organizer cancels the tour due to force majeure such as a typhoon, a full refund will be provided.

• The Oiyama run involves vigorous physical activity and carries risks similar to sports activities.

• First-time participants will be assigned to comparatively safer positions; however, injuries may still occur.

• Individuals with difficulty walking, limited physical fitness, or discomfort with strenuous exercise should not participate.

• Individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other underlying medical conditions should refrain from joining for safety reasons.

• Knee supports and other protective equipment are strongly recommended.

• Participants must follow all instructions given by guides and instructors during practice and the festival.

• Due to religious and traditional customs, women may not physically participate in or touch the Yamakasa float.

• Companions are welcome to observe but may not participate in practices or the festival.

• The event will operate in rainy weather; however, it may be canceled if severe weather such as a typhoon makes safe operation impossible.