About the festival
Naha Great Tug of War places an enormous rope across the city streets. The hatagashira flag procession and the tug itself happen in different locations.
Who is it for?
Visitors interested in Okinawan community traditions and large public celebrations.
Photo: Docrings · Public domain
Original date: 2009-10-11. Original image or Commons thumbnail; no additional edits.
Dates and times
Usually October; exact tug-of-war date announced by edition
Usual season; next dates not confirmed. Times use JST. See the official programme for session times and changes.
Venue and parade route
Naha · 那覇
The rope event uses Route 58 near Kumoji Junction. The hatagashira flag procession is on Kokusai-dori, so it needs a separate viewing location.
国道58号・久茂地交差点周辺
The map pin marks a reference venue, rather than every entrance or the full parade route.
Getting there by train or bus
- From Naha Airport, take Yui Rail to Kencho-mae and walk toward Kumoji Junction.
What to see
- Giant rope
- Hatagashira flags
- Community tug-of-war tradition
History and origins
The event inherits tug-of-war traditions of Naha's four Ryukyu-era communities, associated with peace and maritime safety.
Planning your visit
Our editorial suggestions for planning your trip.
Allow time between the flag procession and the rope venue, and follow stewards around closed roads.
Places to visit nearby
Fukushuen Garden
福州園
A Chinese-style garden commemorating Naha's links with Fuzhou.
Walk the garden before the tug, then follow festival pedestrian directions toward Kumoji.
These stops and the suggested order are editorial recommendations. Check each venue's opening hours and festival-day road closures before travelling.
Naha Great Tug of War: common questions
When is Naha Great Tug of War?
Usually October; exact tug-of-war date announced by edition This is the usual season, rather than a confirmed timetable for the next edition. Times are Japan Standard Time (JST).
Where does Naha Great Tug of War take place?
The rope event uses Route 58 near Kumoji Junction. The hatagashira flag procession is on Kokusai-dori, so it needs a separate viewing location.
How do I get to Naha Great Tug of War by public transport?
From Naha Airport, take Yui Rail to Kencho-mae and walk toward Kumoji Junction.
Are the flag procession and tug on Kokusai-dori?
The flag procession is on Kokusai-dori; the tug takes place around Kumoji Junction on Route 58.
Official sources
- Festival and visitor guide 1 (www.naha-otsunahiki.org) ↗
- Festival and visitor guide 2 (www.okinawastory.jp) ↗
Sources reviewed: .