Traditional culture
The prestigious traditional performing art of Uruma City, "Eisa."
About TraditionalEisa
Eisa is a traditional Okinawan performing art similar to Bon Odori on the mainland. Each local youth group has its own unique style, and during the nights of the Obon season, they parade through the community while dancing.
This procession is called "Michi-junee."
Today, Eisa is performed not only during Obon but also throughout the year at various events.
Uruma City Eisa Festival
The "Uruma City Eisa Festival," held annually around the end of the Obon season, brings together Eisa groups from across the city. Many people visit from outside the prefecture just to see the numerous Eisa performances in one place. The Eisa dance, which has been passed down since ancient Ryukyu times, is a hallmark of summer in Uruma City.
With each region boasting its own unique and vibrant Eisa performances, the festival has been highly anticipated since its inception, attracting not only local fans but also enthusiasts from across Japan.
Uruma City's Shishimai
Uruma City is not only known for Eisa but also for its vibrant lion dance culture.
Okinawan lion dances are unique for their fluffy lion costumes.
Lion dances are a traditional art performed to ward off evil spirits and pray for bountiful harvests and regional prosperity. Uruma City is home to a place called "Shishiyama," and many traditional lion dances are preserved throughout the area.
Each region has its own unique lion dance style, and the synchronized movements make the lion seem alive.
Every year, on a Sunday near the 15th day of the ninth lunar month, the "All-Island Lion Dance Festival" is held in Uruma City, where regional traditional arts are showcased.
