Hakata Gion Yamakasa

All the flights were on time, so not that much waiting. After a couple of hours in Tokyo to change planes, we are now down in the South of japan,in Fukuoka.

We are over in japan to visit my wifes family and at this time, to take in a couple of there summer festivals. In Fukuoka this week it is "Hakata Gion Yamakasa"

i have copied this down from the Fukuoka tourist site:

Hakata Gion Yamakasa brings a sense of summer in Hakata.It is a shrine ritual dedicated to Kushida shrine, the grand tutelary shrine of Hakata, with 760-year-old history. This festival, designated as a national significant intangible folk cultural asset, is also known as one of three major festivals in Japan.
On the 1st of July, when the displays of luxurious floats named "Kazariyama" for decorative purposes (Sei-no-Yamakasa) are set up on the streets around the town, all people in Hakata and Fukuoka to be in a festive mood. This is the beginning of a spectacle festival to play opposite two kinds of floats that is held for 15 days.
"Kakiyama" float (Do-no-Yamakasa) is to be carried in the festival by bearers wearing a loincloth. After receiving water on their bodies in spirited manner, they carry 1-ton floats while giving each other a shout, "Oisa, Oisa," then running through the streets of Hakata at full intention and speed by pushing the float from behind. The festival culminates with "Oiyama" held at 4:59am on July 15, and there will be feverish excitement around the town. Heartbeats and enthusiasm of "Yamanobose" (leaders) cause the audience the most inspirational sensation.

So it looks like an early start on the 15th.....

From what i understand, the float in the photo will be raced around the streets. Now if it this that one, it will be quiet a site to see.