Karatsu Kunchi Festival — Dragon and Turtle Parade

The Karatsu Kunchi (November 2–4) is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Fourteen enormous lacquered floats (hikiyama) — each one a different creature or mythological figure, built with artistry indistinguishable from fine furniture — are pulled through the historic streets of Karatsu by teams of men in matching happi coats. The floats were built between 1819 and 1845 and have been maintained by the same neighborhoods ever since. The Hikiyama Exhibition Hall displays all 14 floats year-round.