Yobuko Tug-of-War Festival (June)
This festival originates in a tug-of-war event started by Toyotomi Hideyoshi more than 400 years ago to boost the morale of his soldiers at Hizen Nagoya Castle. He divided his troops into east and west teams under Kato Kiyomasa and Fukushima Masanori, and had them pull the huge mooring line of a warship. The festival is held on the first Saturday and Sunday of June. The first day is a children’s tug-of-war and the second day is for men.
Yobuko Kodomo Gion Festival (mid-July)
The festival is held on the 14th and 15th of the sixth lunar month according to the old Japanese calendar. A float weighing 3 tons and standing 15 meters tall is carried on four poles and paraded around and into the sea. Prayers are said at Yasaka Shrine to ward off infectious diseases and to bring good harvests and catches at sea.
Yobuko Fireworks (mid-August)
Held on the last day of a festival at Yobuko Port. Another recommended viewpoint is Kabe Island. The reflection on the water of the fireworks in the night sky is a sight to behold.
Hado Bon Tug-of-War in the Sea (mid-August)
A traditional event started by Toyotomi Hideyoshi more than 400 years ago, held today in conjunction with a Bon memorial service for the repose of the souls of soldiers and victims of war. Young people with painted faces run into the sea at the sound of the starter’s drum and begin pulling. Held every August 15th at high tide at the Hado fishing port.
Hadomisaki Fireworks (mid-August)
Fireworks held in the town of Chinzei, facing the Genkai Sea. About 2,500 rounds of fireworks will be launched. A summer festival is held in the daytime for a full day of enjoyment.
Ishimuro Inoko Festival (mid-November)
The festival originates in a tug-of-war started by Toyotomi Hideyoshi more than 400 years ago to boost the morale of his soldiers at Hizen Nagoya Castle. Held on the second Saturday of November.
Takigi Noh at Hizen Nagoya Castle Ruins
A firelight performance by a Kansai-based Kanze school of Noh actor Otsuki Bunzo, recognized as a living important intangible cultural heritage, and Nomura Manroku, a leading teacher in the Izumi school of Kyogen and also a living important intangible cultural heritage, along with Takushima Toshiyuki and Saito Nobutaka, who hail from Karatsu, and others.