Intangible Folk Cultural Properties Requiring Documentation of Saga

Ōshiraki no Inoko-sama is a traditional rice harvest celebration in the Ōshiraki district of Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. Children wearing umbrella-shaped straw coverings called Waratobi visit homes chanting 'Tōbi Tobi Toi Toi Toi,' blessing the harvest and praying for children's growth. Designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2023.

The Dengaku of Shirohige Shrine, performed annually on October 18-19 in Saga City, is the only surviving dengaku in Saga Prefecture and a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. This rare chigo dengaku features beautifully costumed boys performing graceful ritual dances passed down since medieval times.

Held every January at Takezaki Kanzeonji Temple in Tara Town, Saga Prefecture, this nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property features loincloth-clad young men battling to prevent the reunion of two legendary demon spirits. With its unique children's sacred dance, strict youth guild traditions, and ritual forms preserved since the medieval period, this winter festival offers an extraordinary window into Japan's living folk heritage.

Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, the Yobuko Great Tug-of-War is held every June in Yobuko, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. Originating from Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaigns, the town divides into two teams to pull a 200-meter rope, with the outcome foretelling bountiful harvests or abundant catches.

Saga’s registered properties across designations, with featured heritage and travel notes.

The complete kokuhō catalogue — browse by prefecture, period, and category.

Nationwide jūyō bunkazai — architecture, sculpture, painting, crafts, and documents.