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The "Okinawa All-Island EISA Festival" is held on the weekend after the Lunar Calendar's Obon. "EISA" refers to the Buddhist dance performed to welcome and send off ancestors during the Obon festival. Accompanied by the sound of the shamisen and local folk songs, the dance moves in rhythm with the taiko drums, making it one of Okinawa's traditional arts.
Originating from the "Hirara City" EISA dance competition in 1956, the "Okinawa All-Island EISA Festival" takes place on the weekend following the Lunar Calendar's Obon. It features groups selected from various regions of Okinawa, along with invited guest groups from sister cities across the country, showcasing their unique styles of EISA dance.
On the first day, a parade group performs "Michijune" at Hirara Gate Street. The second day features the "Okinawa City Youth Festival," showcasing the dance of the Okinawa City Youth Association. The final day is the main festival, where youth associations from across the island perform EISA dance. The "Okinawa City Youth Festival" and the main festival have designated paid seating for those who wish to enjoy the performances more closely, and it is recommended to make reservations in advance.
The highlight of the Okinawa All-Island EISA Festival is the "KACHASHI" held on the final evening. "KACHASHI" means "to stir up," and performers dance alongside the audience, elevating the atmosphere to its peak. The festival concludes with a fireworks display, perfectly capping off three days of passionate celebration.
