If you find yourself in Fukuoka during the hot summer months of July and August, there’s an event that should not be missed – the Fukuoka Tenjin Mitsuri Summer Festival, also known as Matsuri! During my recent trip to Fukuoka, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in this traditional Japanese summer celebration, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience!
Fukuoka Tenjin Matsuri Summer Festival Location
The festival takes place at Fureai Square, a charming venue located within Fukuoka City Hall, conveniently close to Tenjin Station. This area is popular for travelers seeking accommodations, so it’s a great idea to book a place nearby and fully embrace the atmosphere of the festival. However, even if you’re staying elsewhere in Fukuoka, fear not, as the festival site is easily accessible from Hakata Station via the subway.
Festival Period
The Fukuoka Tenjin Matsuri Summer Festival spans over two weeks, commencing from July 21 (Fri) and culminating on August 6 (Sun). As I arrived at the festival entrance, I was warmly greeted by an English sign that read “Tenjin Summer Festival.”
Festival Ambiance
As I wandered from Tenjin Station, crossing the street from the Solaria Plaza shopping mall, the festival atmosphere gradually engulfed me. The lights flashed, the music resonated, and the energy was contagious. I stumbled upon a captivating drumming performance on a high stage, with a large drum commanding attention from afar. I regret not being able to capture a video or photo, but I assure you, the lively spirit was truly captivating.
Culinary Delights
The festival was a feast for the senses, especially the taste buds! Countless food stalls lined the area, offering an array of delectable treats. From the iconic Japanese street food, Takoyaki, to mouthwatering fried chicken and churros, there was something to satisfy every craving. The prices were quite reasonable, with most dishes averaging around 1000 yen.
A delightful surprise awaited me as I explored the food stalls. Amidst the Japanese delicacies, I noticed a stall selling Shin Ramyun stir-fried noodles, representing Korean cuisine. It was an interesting fusion of flavors, and I couldn’t resist trying it!
Quench Your Thirst
To beat the summer heat, the festival offered refreshing alcoholic beverages, including beer and Japanese sake highballs. I opted for the sake-filled highball, priced at a wallet-friendly 300 yen. It was the perfect choice to cool off in the scorching weather. These highballs were readily available at various spots within the festival grounds, making it easy to find and enjoy!
Entertainment and Games
The Fukuoka Tenjin Mitsuri Summer Festival is not just about food and drinks; it’s a hub of entertainment! Aside from the food booths, there were entertaining stalls where visitors could wear masks and participate in games. I had seen these lively activities on YouTube vlogs, and being able to partake in them myself was an absolute blast.
Dining Spaces
The festival provided a central dining area where festival-goers could purchase food and enjoy their meals. Despite the Saturday evening crowd, I was able to find empty seats in certain spots, making it a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.
The Fukuoka Tenjin Mitsuri Summer Festival was an enchanting blend of Japanese traditions, delectable cuisine, and lively entertainment. Having watched the festival in Japanese vlogs before, seeing it in person added a whole new dimension of excitement. So, if you happen to be in Fukuoka during the festival period, I highly recommend setting aside some time to visit. The vibrant ambiance, delicious food, and spirited atmosphere make it a must-see event that you won’t want to miss on your Fukuoka journey.
So pack your bags, mark the festival dates on your calendar, and get ready for an unforgettable summer celebration at the Fukuoka Tenjin Mitsuri Summer Festival!
