Fukuoka's Three Major Festivals: Hakozaki Shrine Hojoya Festival

This time, during my trip to Fukuoka, I coincidentally arrived on the day of the Hakozaki Shrine Festival. Having watched Japanese anime featuring festivals since I was a child, I finally got the chance to experience one in person! 😍

Hakozaki Shrine is a historic shrine in Fukuoka. Visiting the main hall exudes a sense of ancient charm, but during the festival, the entire area transforms into a lively carnival with a strong Japanese flavor. There are countless stalls offering a variety of experiences, and even half a day isn't enough to explore them all. Here are some of the most captivating experiences at the festival:

1. Food Stalls Extravaganza: Must-try local festival snacks like takoyaki, Japanese beef skewers, and small rice balls. Don't miss the desserts such as grilled rice dumplings and chocolate bananas—you definitely won't leave the shrine hungry!
2. Game Stalls: Enjoy activities like pinball, shooting games, lotteries, and goldfish scooping. It's not just for kids; even adults can't resist joining in for a few rounds.
3. Unique Handicraft Market: Discover interesting small shops selling souvenirs, Japanese-style accessories, and handmade crafts. You might even encounter local artisans offering live demonstrations—it's the perfect opportunity to pick up some memorable keepsakes.
4. Festival-Exclusive Items: Some limited-time items like special omamori (charms), lucky mascots, and Japanese handmade goods are only available during the festival. Make sure to set aside time to find your favorite designs!

Hakozaki Shrine Tips:
- Address: 1 Chome-22-1 Hakozaki, Higashi Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0053 Japan
- Opening Hours: Year-round, 08:30-17:30
- On festival days, it's recommended to arrive early as the venue gets crowded, and some stalls may sell out by the afternoon. If you have your eye on something, go early to secure it!

Post by 雪梨媽媽 Suetleimama | Oct 10, 2025