(Illustration courtesy of Itoman City)
Although there is already a lot of chatter about the Oct. 11 Naha Tug-of-War, a Guinness-certified event that many a planning to attend, there’s another tug-of-war that is worth some attention.
The Itoman Tug-of-War is scheduled for Sept. 25, which is Aug. 15 of the old calendar this year and when the Itoman Tug-of-War is held annually.
Recognized as one of the three major tug-of-war events in Okinawa, along with the Naha and Yonabaru Tug-of-Wars, this event, hosted by the city of “Uminchu (fishermen),” is expected to draw about 30,000 people.
While some tug-of-war events on the island move their schedules to hold the events over the weekend, Itoman Tug-of-War proudly remains loyal to its origin by sticking to Aug. 15 of the lunar calendar, which is also known as Jyuugoya, the day for many locals to enjoy Tsukimi (moon viewing).
Like many other traditions, the Itoman Tug-of-War is meant to pray for a rich harvest, the family’s safety, and health in the local community. But tourists and other people from outside are also welcome to pull the rope together. Last year, a crowd of around 30,000 participated.
Route 256, which runs in a north-south direction, will be the stage of the event, which will be contested between “Nishikata (team north)” and “Heekata (team south).”
Before the showdown begins at 5:45 p.m., michizunee or michijunee, a parade of dancers in traditional attire, will take place on Route 77 in the neighboring area between 2-5 p.m.
Traffic will be retricted in and around the venue, so be aware if you are planning to go south on this day.
For participants who would like to drive to the venue, there will be three locations for parking.
It may take a one-hour drive southward to get there, but the Itoman Tug-of-War can let you have a one-of-a-kind experience in the middle of the local community.
Itoman Tug-of-War
Date: Sept. 25 (Fri)
Location of tug-of-war: Route 256, between Hakugindo (26.133619, 127.669866) and Itoman Rotary (26.129693, 127.669750)
*A parade will take place on Route 77 between (26.130236, 127.674727) and (26.129343, 127.670182) between 2-5 p.m. Prior to the contest, there will be an event at the same spot starting at 8:30 a.m. where locals put together the giant rope.
*Tug-of-war will begin at 5:45 p.m.
*Parking space available at A (26.125993, 127.665670, 100 spots), B (26.131018, 127.666148, 90 spots), C (26.134340, 127.667539, 120 spots)
*A shuttle bus is scheduled to transport participants from parking (A and B) to the venue. An electric vehicle is expected to run between the venue and parking (B and C) as well.
