Bizarre Festival! 4 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kudamatsu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Where You Can Witness the Fox Wedding Procession

Kudamatsu City in Yamaguchi Prefecture is famous for Kasado Island and its Fox Wedding procession. Every November, the Kitsune no Yomeiri (Fox Wedding) at Hanaoka Fukutoku Inari Shrine draws visitors from across Japan as a truly eccentric festival.

Here are four handpicked tourist spots unique to Kudamatsu City.

1. Kasado Island – The Tourism Hub of Kudamatsu City, Home to the Family Trip Village and Ōjō Onsen

Kasado Island is Kudamatsu’s largest attraction and one of western Japan’s premier sunset spots. At Sunset Cape, you can see the sun setting and dyeing the Seto Inland Sea crimson—particularly stunning in the clear air of winter.

The island offers many other attractions. The Family Trip Village, open to all, features an auto‑campground, barbecue garden, and footbath. The National Lodging House Ōjō, home to Kasado Island Ōjō Onsen, was renovated in November 2016; its large public bath overlooks Kasado Bay, creating a supremely relaxing atmosphere.

Below Kasado Heights are the artificial Hanaguri Beach and a seaside promenade in the Waterfront Green Park—plenty to explore. Kasado Island makes an ideal base not only for Kudamatsu sightseeing but for touring all of Yamaguchi Prefecture.

2. Sakura Spot! Seto’s Spectacular Viewpoint Overlooking Oita Prefecture’s Kunisaki

Kudamatsu City boasts numerous cherry‑blossom sites, drawing visitors from nearby towns each spring. Hanaoka Hachiman Shrine is one such spot.

Founded in 702 AD, legend says the entire mountain blossomed overnight in honor of the shrine’s enshrinement—hence the name “Hanaoka,” meaning “flower hill.” It is said that Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself once worshipped here. Passing under the shrine’s large torii gate and climbing over a hundred steps, you’ll be rewarded with views of Kudamatsu’s town below and, on clear days, Oita Prefecture’s Kunisaki Peninsula in the distance—a celebrated Seto Inland Sea viewpoint. Be sure to bring a telephoto lens!

3. Marked by a Vermilion Torii Gate! The Bizarre Fox Wedding Procession at Hanaoka

From the Sanyōdō Road through Kudamatsu City, look for the vermilion torii gate behind the parking area—that marks Hanaoka Fukutoku Inari Shrine. Dedicated to blessings of prosperity and protection from fire and theft, its annual Inaho Festival grand ritual takes place on November 3rd.

Originally started in 1950 as part of the autumn Rice Ears Festival, the feature “Fox Wedding Procession” quickly became the highlight. Today, sponsored by local neighborhood associations, it is Kudamatsu’s beloved autumn tradition.

Costumed bride and groom in white‑fox masks ride a rickshaw, followed by relatives in kitsune masks and formal attire, parading through the old highways led by mikoshi (portable shrines) and floats. The festival concludes with the ceremonial three‑three‑nine‑times sake exchange, bringing blessings of harvest, business prosperity, and more. Crowds flock each year to witness this rare spectacle.

4. “Kudamatsu Health Park” – A Relaxation Spot with Natural Hot Springs, Skating, and Theater

Kudamatsu Health Park is the city’s all‑in‑one leisure complex. Centered on the natural Tsurugahama Onsen, it also offers a tron bath (artificial radium spring) and bedrock sauna. In summer, its Sports Plaza dome converts to a swimming pool; in winter, to an ice‑skating rink. Entertainment extends beyond baths and sports: enjoy popular theatrical productions, local‑idol performances, a mini‑theater, karaoke rooms, and a game corner.

Summer brings a beer garden, and on‑site lodging and nap rooms mean you can safely enjoy a drink without worry. A restaurant ensures you’re well fed.

◎Summary

How did you enjoy this tour of Kudamatsu City’s rich attractions? Don’t miss the local cuisine!

Kasado Bay’s flounder is famed for its firm, springy texture and delicate sweetness, while Mashiki garlic products—such as barbecue sauce, garlic miso, and garlic rice crackers—make excellent souvenirs. You can purchase these at Kudamatsu Agricultural Park or the Kasado Island Family Trip Village. Enjoy the sights—and the flavors—of Kudamatsu!

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