Kunchi comes from the ancient custom of holding a celebration on the ninth day of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, which was considered a lucky day. The ninth day is pronounced "Ku-ni-chi", which gradually changed into "Kunchi" in Nagasaki, and came to mean a celebration holiday. Suwa shrine was built in 1624. The Nagasaki Kunchi festival, now has a history of more than 370 years.
Kabashima-machi Taikoyama Kokkodesyo
"Kokkodesyo", shape like a portable shrine with Japanese cushion piled on the top of it, represents a treasure ship sailing across the mighty ocean. It has been 212 years since it first appeared in Kunchi. The highlight of the performance is when the ship is thrown high into the air and caught with the rallying cry "Kokkodesyo!!" Throwing the ship is so tough that it is said to be "beyond one's strength", so you will be very impressed by their brave performance.
