On September 19 and 20, 2026, Kitakyushu holds Wasshoi Hyakuman Natsu Matsuri, its largest citizen-participation festival, drawing more than 1.5 million visitors. The main venues are around Kokura Castle and Komoji-dori, with traditional performing arts and a large-scale parade.
FIVE CITIES, ONE FESTIVAL
In 1963, five separate industrial cities – Moji, Kokura, Wakamatsu, Yahata and Tobata – merged into one municipality, and the combined population crossed one million. Each town arrived with its own festival traditions. Wasshoi is where those traditions share a stage.
HOW TO ATTEND
Free to watch. The main venues are within walking distance of Kokura Station. With 1.5 million visitors across two days, expect the central area to be busy from the afternoon.
- Dates: September 19-20, 2026
- Venues: Around Kokura Castle and Komoji-dori
- Admission: Free to watch
- Official Info: wasshoi.info
Source: Kitakyushu City | wasshoi.info