This is Ashibetsu City’s premier summer event, packed with highlights such as spectacular Yamakasa floats and vibrant dance parades.
◎Dates and Times: Saturday, July 18, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:15 PM
_ Sunday, July 19, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
◎Venue: Special Event Site on the Street in Front of JR Ashibetsu Station
<The Festival’s Two Major Events>
→Kenka Yamakasa: Held on Saturday, July 18. This is an authentic Yamakasa procession, the only one officially recognized as the “Northern Yamakasa” by the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Promotion Association. The sight of bearers in traditional loincloths carrying a Yamakasa weighing approximately 1 metric ton as they race through the streets at breakneck speed is truly spectacular.
→Kenka Odori: Held on Sunday, July 19. Dancers dressed in colorful costumes parade down the street in front of the station to the lively rhythm of the “Ashibetsu-bushi” folk song.
In addition, various event areas and activities are planned that everyone—from children to adults—can enjoy for free.
