Spring in Yanagawa

In spring, the whole town of Yanagawa becomes vibrant. Hanging decorations called “sagemon” are hung in homes and shops, and colorful flowers such as cherry blossoms and wisteria decorate Yanagawa, announcing the arrival of spring.

Average maximum temperature: 19.7°C Average minimum temperature: 11.0°C

Main Events

Yanagawa Doll Festival and Sagemon Tour

Event period: February 11th – April 3rd

With the arrival of spring, the town of Yanagawa is decorated with “sagemon” on both sides of the doll stand. When a girl is born, relatives and grandmothers sew the dolls one stitch at a time to celebrate the first festival, in hopes of the child’s happiness and healthy growth. The “Yanagawa Doll Festival Sagemon Tour” was started to allow many people to enjoy this heartwarming custom and the gorgeous “sagemon.”

Opening of the moat

Event period: March 1st

After the traditional “Mizuochi” ceremony, which has been held since the feudal era, the dam is opened, heralding the arrival of spring in Yanagawa. Clear water flows in, irrigating the town throughout the year.

Yanagawa Hospitality Health Marathon

Event period: Late March

A health marathon unique to Yanagawa, with a course along the Ariake Sea coast. Participants come from a wide range of areas both inside and outside the city, and it is a sports event that embodies Yanagawa’s “spirit of hospitality” throughout the city.

Cherry Blossom Festival and Yabusame

Event period: Late March to early April

The Takahata Park Cherry Blossom Festival is held in conjunction with the cherry blossoms. During the festival, the trees are lit up at night, so you can enjoy the cherry blossoms at night. The spring tradition of Yanagawa, “Yabusame” (horseback archery), is held on the approach to Mitsuhashira Shrine, which has been designated a national scenic spot.

Okinohata Suitengu Shrine Festival (Boat Stage)

Event period: May 3rd – May 5th

Elementary and junior high school students from the Funabutai Preservation Society will perform a spectacular performance on the Sanshinmaru float in the moat next to Suitengu Shrine. Stalls are lined up along the moat, attracting many parents and children.

Recommended sightseeing spots in spring

Nakayama Fuji

A magnificent view created by purple curtains

See & Enjoy
  • Nature

Mitsuhashira Shrine

Established in 1826, this shrine enshrines three deities: Lord Tachibana Muneshige, his wife, and his father-in-law, Lord Totsugi Dosetsu. It was built by master craftsmen and includes a tower gate modeled after the Yomeimon Gate of Nikko Toshogu Shrine and a corridor modeled after Itsukushima in Aki. It burned down in 2005 and is currently under reconstruction. The sacred grounds are now Takahata Park, the best in the Chikugo region.

See & Enjoy
  • Historical Sites

Wheat harvest

Bakushuu (wheat harvest) is a word that refers to the early summer when the wheat ears ripen and the harvest season begins. It was named after the fact that it is the “autumn” season for wheat to ripen and be harvested. The wheat harvest season begins from late May to early June. During this time, wheat fields spread out as far as the eye can see shine with gold, creating a beautiful landscape.

See & Enjoy
  • Nature

Yanagawa Mutsugoro Land

An experiential tourist facility where you can do camping and BBQ. Indoors, you can stay in a Japanese-style room, as well as a tent in the multipurpose room. You can also experience a slightly different camping experience in glamping tents. Tents and other camping equipment are also available for rental.

Stay
  • Other Accomodations

Enjoy a Relaxing and Luxurious Experience

River Rafting in the Water Town of Yanagawa

River Rafting Guide