The Itoman Tug-of-War, one of Okinawa three major tug-of-war events, is a traditional event held in Itoman City , located in southern Okinawa Prefecture, and has long been associated with the "Fifteenth Night" on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. In 2026, it will be held on Friday, September 25th.
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A roar echoes through the town of fishermen! The "Itoman Great Tug-of-War" continues the tradition.
The Itoman Great Tug-of-War, a Traditional Event, is one of Okinawa three major tug-of-war events and a traditional event that has long been held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, known as "Itoman." In 2026, it will be held on Friday, September 25th. Tens of thousands of participants literally unite to pull the rope, which is divided into north and south sides, praying for a bountiful harvest, a good catch of fish, and good health. In Itoman, it is held every year on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar and is affectionately called "Hachigwachi Juuguya" or "Juuguya." After the magnificent parade "Michizune" adorns the venue, the main event finally begins with the powerful sound of gongs echoing in the evening. Be sure to experience firsthand the overwhelming enthusiasm created by the prayers and pride of the local people!
| Itoman Tug-of-War |
| [Date and Time] September 25, 2026 (Friday) (15th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar / Mid-Autumn Moon) |
| [Venue] Michizune: Itoman Elementary School to Itoman Rotary, Tug-of-War: Itoman Rotary to Shiroganedo Hotel (approximately 7 minutes by car from the venue (Shiroganedo)) |
| [Important Notice] Traffic restrictions will be in place on Prefectural Road 256 and Prefectural Road 77 around the venue on the day of the event. Several temporary parking lots will be set up, but please use public transportation or shuttle buses to alleviate congestion. |
The female rope (miizuna) and male rope (uuzuna) made by everyone.
The appeal of the Itoman Great Tug-of-War isn't just in the tug-of-war itself. Leading up to the day of the event, "small ropes" are made in each district of Itoman, and these are then gathered together and woven into the female rope (miizuna) and male rope (uuzuna) by local people in the early morning of the event. The sight of so many strands of straw being piled up and everyone working together to create the rope embodies the connections and pride between people, and its magnificent scale and the warmth of the handcrafted work are well worth seeing.
Dance and music fill the streets. The exhilarating celebratory parade, "Michizune"!
One of the major highlights of the Itoman Tug-of-War is the "Michizune" celebratory parade, which dramatically raises the excitement of the town in anticipation of the main event. "Michizune" is a traditional event in which people parade through the town to pray for the prosperity of the community and good health. In Itoman, each region's proud and magnificent flag bearers are soaring high into the air. Following behind the brave flag bearers, the Chinku team, mainly composed of local toddlers and elementary school children, plays music and rhythms, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Furthermore, Ryukyu dancers in colorful costumes add to the festivities, filling the streets with cheers and excitement. Just before the tug-of-war, the flag bearers of the north and south compete fiercely in front of the headquarters, known as the Hatagashira Gae. Be sure to arrive early and experience the excitement up close.
Dramatic preludes: "Michiyuchi" (traveling) and "Shitaku" (preparation)
Just before the tug-of-war, the "Michi-nyuchi" (procession) and "Shitaku" (preparation) take place. The Michi-zune, led by the flag bearers, parade to the battleground where the ropes of the north and south meet. Above the rope's joint (kanuchi), the "Shitaku" from the north and south, dressed as historical heroes and legendary figures, rise up. Their glaring faces and clashing swords and fans create a scene filled with fantastical beauty and power. Don't miss this moment when all eyes in the venue are focused on the excitement and tension reaching its peak.
A sense of excitement and unity where anyone can jump in and participate.
Once the kanuchi poles are joined together and the rope is connected, the referee's signal is given, and shouts of "Ha-iya! Ha-iya!", finger whistles, and the sound of drums fill the air. A major attraction is that not only local residents but also tourists and spectators can participate in the tug-of-war on the spot. The excitement and sense of unity as thousands of people pull the rope together is something you can feel not just by watching, but by experiencing it firsthand.
"Straw" is considered auspicious to bring home.
At the Itoman Tug-of-War, after the winner is decided, the rope is dismantled, and it is customary for participants to take home the straw that was used. This straw is considered auspicious as a charm to ward off evil and bring good health and safety to the family, and participants carefully take it home with them.
A single rope passionately connects people and the town. The pride of Itoman, passed down through generations.
As an event that connects tradition to the next generation, and as an event that everyone can enjoy, the Itoman Tug-of-War deeply connects the community and its people.
Photo courtesy of Itoman City
If you want to enjoy the Itoman Tug-of-War, this is the place! The closest hotel to the venue.
Known as one of Okinawa three major tug-of-war events, the Itoman Tug-of-War is a thrilling and exciting event held every year on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. If you want to truly experience the excitement, choosing the right hotel is crucial.
Therefore, I recommend the Southern Beach Hotel & Resort Okinawa , a full-fledged resort hotel that is the closest to the venue for the tug-of-war (around Shiroganedo and Itoman Rotary).
The advantages of Southern Beach Hotel & Resort Okinawa: its proximity is a major plus.
● Excellent access and stress-free from crowds.
On the day of the tug-of-war, traffic restrictions will be in place around the venue, making it difficult to find parking. However, Southern Beach Hotel is only about 5-7 minutes away from the venue by car or taxi , reducing the hassle of travel and parking worries.
● Quickly washes away heat and sweat.
Located right in front of Mimi Beach, the hotel boasts ocean-view rooms and a spacious Garden Pool. After experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional local festival, you can enjoy a luxurious holiday in a sophisticated setting.
● Combining traditional events with a resort stay
The Itoman Tug-of-War, open to everyone, is incredibly exciting and will leave you drenched in sweat. After enjoying the thrilling tug-of-war, you can head back to your hotel and immediately shower to wash away the sweat and refresh yourself.
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