Naha Dragon Boat Race (Photo by Shoji Kudaka)
Golden Week is right around the corner and that means row teams are hitting the water for the annual Naha Dragon Boat Race.
This premier cultural event in Naha City returns May 3-5 for its 51st installment. It is a highlight of the Golden Week holidays that fall from April 29 to May 6 this year (or from April 26 for those who take a day off on April 28).
Last year, the 3-day event at Naha Port reportedly drew 160,000 people. The last day was especially crowded as spectators showed up to root on local and U.S. military row teams, so expect a crowd again this year.
In addition to the race, there will also be live music, festival food, other vendors, and more at the venue.
Naha Dragon Boat Race is considered one of the three major festivals of Naha City along with Naha Tug of War in October and the Ryukyu Dynasty Festival Shuri in late October or early November. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to check it out!
Naha Dragon Boat Race (Photo by Shoji Kudaka)
Naha Dragon Boat Race (Photo by Shoji Kudaka)
Trivia
The Dragon Boat Race, or “Hari” in Okinawa dialect, has a 600-year history and used to be a national event in the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom (1492-1879). After almost a century-long hiatus, it was brought back to life and has grown into an event that represents Okinawa just like in the old days.
What makes the Naha City race unique is that each boat is big enough to require 32 rowers, two steerers, and two drummers. Normal dragon boats only take 10 rowers and 1 steerer.
Naha Dragon Boat Race
Date: May 3- 5 (Sat.- Mon.)
Time: TBD (This event usually starts at 9:30 to 10 a.m. every year)
Venue: Naha Port and the New Naha Port Wharf (GPS Coordinates: N 26.230106, E 127.680786)
*Parking will not be available at the venue. It is advised to use coin-operated parking spaces in the neighboring area or use tours offered by on-base organizations such as MCCS Tours+(https://www.okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/dining-entertainment/tours/on-island-tours).
