If you’re fascinated by cultural events and traditional festivities, the Nanmin Festival in Naha City, Okinawa, is something you shouldn’t miss. Scheduled from May 16th to May 19th, 2024, this festival is a vibrant celebration of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s heritage, featuring everything from ancient dances to modern performances. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect at this colorful event!
📍 Venue:
The festival takes place at several locations including Naminoue Shrine, Asahigaoka Park, Naminoue Beach, and Palette Kumoji Plaza in Naha City. These sites are steeped in history and add an authentic backdrop to the festivities.
🎉 Festival Highlights:
- Cultural Performances: Experience the power of traditional Okinawan performances on a special stage, with Ryukyu dance and Eisa drumming being the main attractions.
- Children’s Sumo Tournament: Watch the little warriors battle it out in the Chibikko Sumo Tournament. It’s not only adorable but also a great way for kids to learn about and participate in traditional sports.
- Cultural Crafts: Engage in making traditional Okinawan toys and enjoy the unique Bukubuku tea, all available for free until supplies last. It’s a great way to take a piece of Okinawa home with you.
- Community Involvement: The entire community comes together to put on this festival, making it a genuine expression of Okinawan spirit and hospitality.
📅 Detailed Schedule:
Thursday, May 16th
- Eve of the Festival (Yoi Miyaji)
- Time: 6 PM onwards
- Location: Naminoue Shrine Main Hall [ Google Pin ]
Friday, May 17th
- Main Annual Festival
- Time: Starts at 10 AM
- Location: Naminoue Shrine Main Hall [ Google Pin ]
- Activities: Performances including the first rice dance, the Urayasu dance, and child Kagura
Saturday, May 18th
- Morning and Afternoon Activities:
- Chibikko Sumo Tournament and Toy-Making
- Time: From 1 PM
- Location: Traditional Sumo Venue (Asahigaoka Park)
- Bukubuku Tea Dedication
- Time: 1:30 PM
- Location: Naminoue Shrine Main Hall [ Google Pin ]
- Song and Dance Dedication
- Time: From 2 PM
- Evening Activities:
- Dance Performance Competition
- Time: 6 PM
- Location: Special Stage at Asahigaoka Park
Sunday, May 19th
- Festival Procession and Competitions:
- Mikoshi Procession (Shinko Festival)
- Time: From 10 AM
- Route: From Naminoue Shrine to Palette Kumoji
- All-Island Okinawa Sumo Tournament
- Time: 2 PM
- Location: Traditional Sumo Venue (Asahigaoka Park)
- Afternoon Tea and Performances:
- Serving Tea and Tug-of-War
- Time: From 3 PM
- Location: Naminoue Beach [ Google Pin ]
- Ryukyu Dance Dedication
- Time: 3:30 PM
🎟️ Admission
Free! This makes it an excellent opportunity for everyone to engage with and enjoy the rich cultural tapestry of Okinawa without any cost.
This festival is not just an event; it’s a comprehensive cultural experience that highlights the beauty and tradition of Okinawa. Whether you are a local or a tourist, participating in or just watching the Nanmin Festival offers a deep dive into the heart of Okinawan culture!
While You are In Naha
Free Printable One Day Road Trip Map
If you’re planning to explore the old and modern capital of Okinawa – Naha City, we have a one day tour map to help you cover most of the grounds in Naha in on day. Get the printable map for your visit to Naha.
Disclaimer
⚠️Disclaimer: Our passion for supporting local businesses drives us to share information about events in the Okinawa area. Please note that Oki Social is not responsible for hosting this event. It’s important to be aware that the event’s host reserves the right to make changes or even cancel the event without prior notice. Some photos and videos may come from various sources on the internet, whether official or unofficial. It is possible that some photos and videos may have been taken from the same event in previous occurrences.
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