2 Million Visitors Join! Why You Should Not Just Watch the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival
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What Is the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival?
The Hakata Dontaku Port Festival is one of the biggest citizen-participation festivals in Japan, held every year on May 3 and 4 in Fukuoka City. More than 20,000 people join as performers, and over 2 million come to watch. It’s a huge event that takes over the entire city of Fukuoka with excitement.
Source: YOKANAVI (Fukuoka City Official Tourist Site)
More Fun When You Join In!
Many tourists come just to watch the parade or stage shows. But for locals, Dontaku is most fun when you participate.
Children join the dances, companies and groups walk in the parade with handmade costumes. It’s truly a “festival for the people.” Even tourists can join the special “Sou-Odori” dance. You’ll feel like part of Fukuoka!
Sou-Odori (Open to Everyone)
The Sou-Odori is a fun final dance where anyone can join—no reservation needed! Tourists are very welcome.
Source: YOKANAVI (Fukuoka City Official Tourist Site)
- Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025 / 5:50 PM – 6:20 PM
- Locations: Gofukumachi, Nakasu-Kawabata, Suijo Park, Dontaku Plaza (main stage)
Main Stage of the Sou-Odori dance
Why Foreign Visitors Will Love It
- Rare chance to join a huge local Japanese festival
- See Japanese culture: parades, taiko drums, live shows
- No need to reserve a seat—just walk around and enjoy!
- Join the dance zone and make unforgettable memories
Festival Highlights
・The Dontaku Parade on Meiji Street features people in traditional dress and modern performers in a colorful mix.
・Stage events all over the city show school dances, Japanese arts, idol music, and more!
・The Tenjin and Hakata areas become pedestrian zones full of energy and smiles.
Where Is It Held?
Main areas include:
- Meiji Street (Dontaku Parade route)
- Fukuoka City Hall Plaza (Sou-Odori and events)
- Hakata Station Square
- Tenjin Central Park, Reisen Park, and more
Dontaku Plaza on Meiji Street
Hakata Station Square
Tips for Visitors
- Use public transport (Tenjin Station or Hakata Station on the subway)
- Parade events are in the daytime. Join the Sou-Odori dance in the evening!
- Don’t miss the street food and local sweets!
Join the Fun and Feel the Spirit of Fukuoka
The Hakata Dontaku Port Festival is more than something to just watch. It’s a chance to dance, smile, and experience Fukuoka with the locals. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, music and laughter connect everyone. Come and feel the magic!
