Nagasaki Kunchi Festival

What Is Nagasaki Kunchi?

From October 7th to 9th, Nagasaki City holds "Nagasaki Kunchi," the festival of Suwa Shrine. Said to have begun in 1634, it is affectionately known locally as "Okunchi." In 1979, its dedicatory dances were designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

Dedicatory Dances Rich in Foreign Influences

Nagasaki Kunchi is known for its dynamic performances, which strongly reflect the cultures of Portugal, the Netherlands, China and beyond.

• Signature performances: the Dragon Dance (Jaodori), the Spouting Whale, the Taikoyama "Kokkodesho" float, the Dutch Manzai and the Red Seal Ship
• Three days: the "Okudari" procession on the 7th, performances around town on the 8th, and the "Onobori" return on the 9th
• Name: the leading theory is that "kunchi" comes from "ku-nichi," the ninth day of the ninth month of the old calendar, when it used to be held
• Japan's three great kunchi: ranked alongside Hakata Okunchi and Karatsu Kunchi

A Turn That Comes Only Once Every Seven Years

The performances are presented by neighborhoods of Nagasaki that are parishioners of Suwa Shrine. Fifty-nine neighborhoods are divided into seven groups that take turns each year, so each neighborhood's turn as an "odori-cho" comes around only once every seven years. Performances offered by just one neighborhood can basically be seen only once in seven years. The "kasaboko" parasol float leading each group weighs 130 to 150 kg, and watching bearers spin it vigorously is one of the highlights.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Watch broadcasts or videos of performances like the Dragon Dance
• Read about Nagasaki's long history of ties with the outside world
• Look up Japan's three great kunchi and the origins of autumn festivals
• Enjoy a taste of Nagasaki, such as champon or castella

Seven Years of Passion Poured Into Three Days

Nagasaki Kunchi unites the city's history of welcoming foreign cultures with the passion each neighborhood hands down. For three days from October 7th, even from afar, why not share in its excitement?