Yonabaru Great Tug-of-War Festival 2025
In Okinawa, tug-of-war events are held across various areas from June to August according to the lunar calendar (roughly July to September in the Gregorian calendar). Okinawa’s tug-of-war is characterized by two large ropes called the male rope and female rope, connected at their ends by a “Kanachi stick” ring, with teams pulling the male rope on the east side and the female rope on the west side. Some events feature a fierce clash called “kenka-tsuna” (fighting rope).
Originally a rural agricultural ritual, tug-of-war is believed to “pull in a bountiful harvest,” praying for rich fishing, good crops, warding off evil, pest control, and rainmaking. The outcome of the competition is also used for fortune-telling.
Most places hold it once a year, but some hold it every few years, others annually with larger events every few years, and some even twice a year. Comparing these regional differences is part of the fun of the festival. (Yonabaru Great Tug-of-War Festival)
Event Overview
Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025
Location: Yonabaru
Official Web : Click Here
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