Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War

Festival highlights

The highlight is the moment when the pullers run down the slope at San-Kyōji and people from the Upper and Lower Groups pull together on the rope as it is brought out with force.

Fierce cries of “Wooo!” ring out as both groups give it their all and compete to win.

Alongside the adults’ tug-of-war, the children also take part, showing how the tradition is passed down across generations.

Nagaya’s Bon tug-of-war turns inherited prayers into strength

What to expect

At the event, participants from the Nagaya district divide into the Upper and Lower Groups for tug-of-war.

The pullers run down the slope at San-Kyōji, and people from both groups join in, heading for the large rope as it is brought out and pulling with all their might.

Following the adults’ contest, the children also take part in tug-of-war. Divided into the Upper and Lower Groups, they carry on the event with their voices ringing out.

Location and access

Venue and address

In front of the San-Kyōji temple gate, Nagaya district (Nagaya, Kurate Town)

Address Nagaya, Kurate Town, Kurate District, Fukuoka Prefecture

Dates and season

2026 event information (the dates listed have passed)

August 14, 2026　Around 10 p.m.

Accommodation and hotels PR

Origins and History of Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War

The Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War is said to have its origins around Keian 3 (1650), when this region was struck by famine and an epidemic.

It is said that the Bon tug-of-war began after Hakusui Yūshin, a wealthy Hakata merchant, used his personal fortune to help people; after his death, the event was held as a Mannengan vow to remember his kindness and offer prayers for the repose of ancestors.

It was designated a Kurate Town cultural property on March 1, 1971.

Official information

The cultural properties guide on the Kurate Town official website introduces the origins of the Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War, its annual timing, its venue, and its status as a designated cultural property.

The Kurate Town official website also reports that the 2026 event included tug-of-war between the Upper and Lower Groups and a children’s tug-of-war.

Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War at a Glance

The Nagaya Mannengan Bon Tug-of-War is a Bon-season tug-of-war held on the night of August 14 each year in the Nagaya district of Kurate Town, with a tradition of about 360 years.

In front of the San-Kyōji temple gate, participants divide into the Upper and Lower Groups and pull against each other using a large rope made from wisteria vines, their shouts ringing out.

Rooted in gratitude to Hakusui Yūshin, who saved people from famine and disease, and in memorial rites for ancestors, this town-designated cultural property is also passed on to children.