Nagasaki Kunchi brings traditional floats and dances into its final two days

Nagasaki Kunchi is in the middle of its October 7-9 run, with the final two days continuing the autumn festival of Suwa Shrine. The Nagasaki tourism portal lists traditional dance offerings and elaborate floats as the core of the event.

The 2026 program uses performances from several neighborhoods, with decorated structures and boat-shaped floats pulled through the city. The event mixes Japanese traditions with influences reflecting Nagasaki’s history as an international port.

October 8 includes performances at Yasaka Shrine and Central Park, while October 9 is the closing day. Street performances also let visitors encounter groups outside the main venues.

For travelers already in Kyushu, Kunchi is a strong date-specific cultural reason to visit Nagasaki in early October.