| Karatsu Kunchi | |||||
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| The Karatsu Kunchi is the autumn festival of the Karatsu (Shinto) Shrine. It has been held since the end of the 16th century, A.D. The festival's primary attraction is the procession of the 'hikiyama' floats. These are elaborately carved and painted vehicles that resemble the floats seen in Western parades, but without mechanical power. This procession is dedicated to the tutelary deity of the shrine. | |||||
 The 1st Yama (i.e., "float"). |
 Yama #2 |
 Yama #3 |
 Yama #4 |
 Yama #5 |
 Yama #6 |
 Yama #7 |
 Yama #8 |
 Yama #9 |
 Yama #10 |
 Yama #11 |
 Yama #12 |
 Yama #13 |
 Yama #14 |
Click on the picture to enlarge. |  Lining up at the temple |
 All ready to go! |
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 Tai Yama (#5) at dusk |
 Akajishi (#1) a comin' |
 Fair crowd |
 Onizuka Jr. High Yama puller |
 Onizuka Jr. High boys |
 Yama #6 (back view) |
 Yama #14's pre- departure prep |
 Long line pulling Tai Yama |
 Tai yama at night |
 Kids get the front seat! |
 Yama #7 at night |
 Gold Lion Yama at night |
 Plants at the fair |
 Yama #7 at night |
 Killer Whale Yama at night |
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