The Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival has concluded, but next year, you should definitely see it up close.
投稿日：2026.07.23
Welcome to Hakata Maiko Chaya “Wanoka-no-Omote,” located in the historic Kawabata Shopping Arcade in Hakata’s Old Town.
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival is a grand summer tradition with over 700 years of history. While Kushida Shrine serves as the main stage for the festivities, the covered shopping arcade directly in front of our lounge transforms into a dynamic and breathtaking route where massive, beautifully decorated festival floats pass by up close. The impressive craftsmanship of the floats combined with the vibrant energy of the participants creates an unforgettable, adrenaline-filled spectacle.
Although this year’s festival has officially concluded, many travelers are already looking ahead and planning their trips to experience the passion of Hakata’s famous summer festival next year.
If you are thinking about visiting Hakata next summer, we highly recommend scheduling your trip around the Yamakasa festival season! After immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere of the streets, step inside “Wanoka-no-Omote” to relax and enjoy authentic Japanese cultural experiences in an elegant, air-conditioned venue.
Our lounge offers unique cultural programs tailored to different times of the day:
Morning Session (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM) Recharge your energy with our traditional “Asanabe” (morning hot pot featuring Hakata specialties such as Motsunabe or Mizutaki).
Afternoon Session (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) Experience a hands-on Nambo-ryu style tea ceremony or relax with our tea menu. Whisk your own matcha paired with “Hakata Uirou” (traditional steamed rice cake), or enjoy our popular Matcha Latte menu in a tranquil Japanese setting.
Evening Session (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM) In the evening, our space transforms into a sophisticated Sake Bar. Savor authentic local Hakata cuisine paired with a fine selection of Japanese sake while watching graceful Maiko dance performances and live Shamisen music right before your eyes, complete with Q&A and photo opportunities.
With our dedicated English-speaking staff always on site, international guests can comfortably dive into the stories, etiquette, and beauty of Japanese traditions without any language barriers.
We invite you to include a visit to “Wanoka-no-Omote” in your itinerary for next summer. For daily highlights, photos, and updates on our traditional arts, please follow our official Instagram (@hakata_maiko).
We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable cultural experience in Hakata!