The Ushibuka Haiya-bushi song that has been passed down since the Edo period is considered to represent the roots of the Haiya folk songs found in 40 locations throughout Japan.
In Ushibuka, a place that prospered as an important hub for maritime traffic, the southern winds that were essential for ships to sail north were called Hae Winds (Hae – Haeya – Haiya) in Kyushu, and the Haiya-bushi song started when the local women would sing for the safety of the ship’s crews.
As an event that marks spring in Kumamoto, approximately 3,000 participants each year dance through the streets of Ushibuka.

Event Dates	Mid-April every year (tentative)
Event Details	Friday, April 17, to Sunday, April 19, 2026 Please check the official website for more details.
Official site	https://ushibuka-haiya.com/
Location (venue)	Ushibuka Haiya Festival Square
Address	Ushibuka-machi, Asakusa-shi, Kumamoto

Region	Kyushu
Category	Processions and parades, Traditional performing arts

Event organizers may change the date and time. Please check the official website.

update: Feb.16.2026