Amakusa City: The Land of Amakusa Shirō
Amakusa City is known as the land of Amakusa Shirō, famous for his involvement in the Shimabara Rebellion. In Amakusa, you can enjoy a historical tour visiting churches and experiencing the history of Christians in Japan. Additionally, you can participate in dolphin watching, where the chances of encountering dolphins are very high, making it a recommended activity.
The Amakusa Islands are surrounded by the Yatsushiro Sea, the Ariake Sea, and the East China Sea, making them rich in marine resources such as sea urchins, octopus, sea bream, and spiny lobster. The seafood bowls in Amakusa are exquisite and a must-try.
Quoted from TripAdvisor
Let’s Go to the Ushibuka Haiya Festival!
- Location: Throughout Ushibuka Town, Amakusa City
- Date: April 20th (Fri) – 22nd (Sun), 2018
- Access:
- By bus: About 2 hours 30 minutes from JR Kumamoto Station to Hondo Bus Center, then transfer and about 1 hour to Ushibuka Port.
- By car: About 2 hours 30 minutes from Kyushu Expressway Matsubase IC via National Route 266 (100 km).
- URL: Ushibuka Haiya Festival Official Website
The Ushibuka Haiya Festival is an annual event that heralds the arrival of spring in Amakusa and is held over three days. During the festival, various events take place, filling the city with excitement and energy.
The term “Haiya” in Ushibuka Haiya Festival is derived from the southern wind, which is crucial for ships departing from Ushibuka and heading north. In the Kyushu region, the southern wind is called “Hae,” which eventually evolved into “Haiya.”
In 1948, to celebrate the recovery from a great fire and pray for a bountiful catch, the “Minato Festival” was held. This festival served as the precursor to the Ushibuka Haiya Festival, which was renamed in 1972. Over the years, various events were introduced, including the birth of a mascot character and the invitation of an Awa Odori troupe from Tokushima Prefecture. Unfortunately, the 45th festival was canceled due to the impact of the Kumamoto Earthquake in 2016.
Quoted from Ushibuka Haiya Festival Official Website
The Roots of Haiya Folk Songs: “Ushibuka Haiya Bushi”
The “Ushibuka Haiya Bushi” performed at the Ushibuka Haiya Festival is considered the origin of the Haiya-style folk songs, which influenced other famous traditional dances like the Awa Odori and the Shimoda Bushi from the Edo period. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the Ushibuka Haiya Festival.
In the past, ships relied on sails to move, and the people of Ushibuka could not set sail unless the southern wind was blowing. The Haiya Bushi began as a way to console sailors who were unable to depart due to the absence of the favorable southern wind. The sailors and women of Ushibuka would dance together, and this tradition evolved into the Ushibuka Haiya Bushi.
The “Haiya Mass Dance” with 5,000 Participants
The highlight of the Ushibuka Haiya Festival is the “Haiya Mass Dance,” held on the second and third days of the festival. Around 5,000 people participate, showcasing a synchronized dance performance.
A dance workshop is held just before the mass dance, allowing participants to quickly learn the steps and join in the fun. You can experience the festival not only by watching but also by participating, immersing yourself in Ushibuka’s rich tradition.
Quoted from Amakusa Treasure Island Tourism Association Website
More Events to Enjoy!
Besides the mass dance, the festival features many other exciting events, such as the “Fishing Boat Parade,” where fishing boats adorned with large fishing flags parade across the sea, and the “Seafood Fair,” where you can savor the fresh catches of the sea.
It’s a festival that offers enjoyment through various activities, whether you’re watching, eating, or participating. You can experience it in any way you like, so be sure to visit and enjoy the festivities.
Cover image courtesy of Amakusa Web Station.
(Edited by 千八乃)
