YAMAGA

People have been living along Kikuchi river since the Stone age, as the land is rich and fertile. It is believed that Kuma-koku, which is written in ancient texts as Gishi-Wajin-den, was a counterpart of Yamatai-koku, along the river.
+ Yamaga Onsen
The legend of Yamaga Onsen is that a wounded deer soaked in water during the Heian-era (794-1192) and was completely healed. Yamaga prospered as an inn town on the Buzen-kaido road. The water is mild and good for the skin.
+ Yachiyo-za
Yachiyo-za is a playhouse built in 1910 that has an Edo-era (1603-1867) atmosphere. The revolving stage, the sunken stage, the “Hanamichi” (an extra stage section used in Kabuki theater, located stage left) and other facilities remain unchanged. Kabuki plays, including a special performance by Bando Tamasaburo (1950- ), are performed here.
+ Yamaga Toro Matsuri (Festival)
A Yamaga Toro lantern is made of Japanese paper and glue. There are 2 types of lanterns: one is a large temple-shaped lantern dedicated to Omiya Shrine, the other is a gold lantern. Women put the gold lantern on their head and elegantly dance all night wearing the same Yukata as one seen in the “Sen-nin Toro” dance at the festival.
+ Yamaga Toro Roman
In Yamaga Onsen town, buildings, umbrellas and decorations made of Japanese paper and bamboo are wonderfully illuminated.