Hakata Dontaku

The name Dontaku is derived from the Dutch word Zondag meaning "Sunday" or "a holiday." It started in 1179 as a New Year performance known as matsubayashi. In the Edo Period(1603-1867), it evolved into a parade headed by people dressed up as auspicious gods when visits were paid to the Lord of Fukuoka Castle. This parade was called Torimon. Although the Meiji Government banned this parade because of its extravagance, the citizens preserved their traditions by changing the name of the parade to Dontaku. It was also suspended during World War II, but was revived soon after the war ended to bring back life to the town, and contributed to its rejuvenation. It is truly a citizens' festival. Today, it has changed its name to the Hakata Dontaku Port Festival (Hakata Dontaku Port Festival), with a number of events also held around Hakata Port.