The quickest way to learn about Okinawan culture and the cheerful “icharibacho” personality of Okinawans is to participate in Okinawan festivals and join in the delightful Kachaashii dance at the end of the event.

Eisa, the traditional Okinawan performing art, is a unique cultural experience that is equivalent to Bon Odori in mainland Japan. It is performed throughout the prefecture during the lunar Bon festival. The culmination of the season is the “10,000 Eisa Dancers’ Parade” along Kokusai Street in Naha, a spectacle that is not to be missed. Many people walk the length of the street dancing Eisa as they proceed, and during the parade, Kokusai Street is naturally closed to the traffic.

The parade is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity, as the participants consist of various civil groups. Spectators are treated to a variety of Eisa performances, including traditional Eisa that have been passed down from generation to generation, creative Eisa of youth groups, and Eisa performed by children's groups. Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities and experience the rich cultural heritage of Okinawa.

The parade includes performances by about 1,000 dancers from the general public and dancers from some 70 youth and children's groups from all over the prefecture. During the parade, Kokusai Street is filled with the sound of percussion instruments like parlanku and taiko drums, accompanied by traditional tunes with Sanshin. At the end of the festival, everyone joins in a dance called “Kachashii.

In the past, the “10,000 Eisa Dancers’ Parade” was held every August, but this year, it was postponed to October as a precaution against heat stroke.

This is an event that truly embodies “the Okinawan spirit.”

Date: Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024
Place: Kokusai Street (starting from Saion Square to Palette Kumoji)
Admission: Free