About
In the heart of Karatsu, a coastal city where the sea whispers tales of old, stands a sanctuary of artistry and tradition. Here, the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall cradles the spirit of the Karatsu Kunchi Festival, a celebration that has danced through the streets since the Edo period. Within its walls, fourteen monumental floats, or hikiyama, rest in silent grandeur, each a testament to the craftsmanship and cultural fervor of a bygone era.
As one steps into the hall, the air is thick with the scent of aged lacquer and the faint echo of festival melodies. The floats, towering between five to six meters and weighing up to five tons, command attention. Crafted meticulously from wooden frames, layered with hundreds of sheets of washi paper, and adorned with vibrant lacquer, they embody the essence of Karatsu's artistic heritage. Each float tells a story: the fierce red lion, Aka-jishi, constructed in 1819, symbolizes protection; the majestic sea bream, Tai, represents prosperity; and the formidable samurai helmet, Kabuto, pays homage to the warrior spirit.
The creation of these floats was no small feat. Artisans dedicated years to their construction, employing techniques passed down through generations. The process began with shaping the wooden frame, followed by the application of washi paper, which was then coated with layers of lacquer. Intricate details were painted with gold and silver, bringing each figure to life. The result is a collection of floats that not only dazzle the eye but also embody the soul of Karatsu's community.
During the annual Karatsu Kunchi Festival, held from November 2nd to 4th, these floats come alive. Pulled through the city's streets by teams of bearers, they are accompanied by the rhythmic chants of "En-ya! En-ya!" and the harmonious sounds of flutes and drums. The festival, designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, draws hundreds of thousands of spectators, all eager to witness the spectacle of these magnificent floats in motion.
For those unable to attend the festival, the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall offers a year-round glimpse into this vibrant tradition. Visitors can marvel at the floats up close, appreciating the intricate craftsmanship and the stories they tell. Informative displays and videos provide context, enriching the experience and deepening the understanding of Karatsu's cultural tapestry.
Adjacent to the hall, the Karatsu Shrine stands as a spiritual anchor, its white torii gate welcoming all who seek to connect with the city's heritage. The shrine, founded in 755 AD, is the heart of the Karatsu Kunchi Festival, and its presence adds a sacred dimension to the exhibition hall's offerings.
In this space, where art and tradition converge, one can't help but feel the pulse of Karatsu's history. The Hikiyama Exhibition Hall is not merely a museum; it is a living testament to the city's enduring spirit, a place where the past and present dance in harmony, inviting all to partake in its timeless celebration.