Hannah Moore (Okinawa)
While Okinawa’s beaches are certainly beautiful, there is a lot more to love about these little islands. Before Okinawa was annexed by Japan, it was known as the Ryukyu kingdom and it has its own vibrant culture to show for it! From the bright colours of the traditional kimono dying technique bingata to the dynamism of the traditional dance eisa, the oceans aren’t the only things that sparkle here!
Surrounded by bass drums sending ripples through your body and the dynamic moves of the acrobatic shime daiko players, eisa is my top pick for things to experience while in Okinawa. This originated as a dance to welcome the ancestors during Okinawan Obon, it is now danced all year round and at a number of dedicated festivals all over Okinawa. Traditionally this was a man’s dance, and though now it is also performed by women it retains its power and dynamic athleticism. My top pick of places to see it is the All Island Eisa Festival in Okinawa city. You can grab an Orion, the beer that screams Okinawan pride, at the adjoining beerfest. The atmosphere is warm and exciting and you will see some great dancers! Just make sure to pace those beers, it's easy to get dehydrated in the hot, humid Okinawan summer! 134
Honourable mentions to see eisa include the 10,000 Eisa Dancers Parade, community groups during Obon itself, and Okinawa World.
