Japan's southernmost citizen marathon. With Full, Half, and 10km courses, runners gather from all over the country. The warm roadside cheering is also a highlight.
A unique competition where plays and speeches are performed in the island dialect (Sumamuni). You can experience the warmth of the local language.
A festival held on Kuroshima, where "the number of cows is greater than the population." The famous lottery where you can win a whole cow is a must-see! Access by ferry.
An event heralding the early arrival of summer. Safety prayers, traditional performing arts, and beach attractions are held.
A music festival held in "Funauki," an isolated village on Iriomote Island accessible only by boat. Organized by Ishigaki-born singer-songwriter Suguru Ikeda.
An international competition racing through the nature of Ishigaki Island with swimming, biking, and running. It's a serious course that also hosts the World Cup.
A traditional event praying for safe voyages and a bountiful catch. The dragon boat (Haryusen) races are thrilling! Held on May 4th of the lunar calendar.
An outdoor music festival held on Hatoma Island, surrounded by azure seas. Gorgeous artists perform island songs and pop music.
Japan's southernmost summer festival held at Fusaki Beach Resort. Enjoy live performances by famous artists right on the beach.
When you think of Okinawa, you think of Orion Beer! A summer festival looked forward to by locals, featuring fresh draft beer direct from the factory and live performances.
The island's largest festival giving thanks for a bountiful harvest. Held in each village, featuring Hatagashira (banner bearers) and giant tug-of-wars.
An event where lights are turned down island-wide to gaze up at the Milky Way. Evening cool-down live performances and observation sessions are held.
A unique event where messengers from the afterlife (Ushumai and Nmi) visit houses, performing dances and engaging in witty dialogues. Held on the nights of the Bon Festival (Lunar Calendar).
An event held the day after Bon to drive away spirits that haven't returned to the afterlife. Lion dances and other performances appear.
A competition competing in singing ability for "Tuborama," a folk song representing Yaeyama. The singing voices echoing under the moonlight are full of emotion.
A festival thanking the gods that the year's wishes have come true. Dedication dances are performed in Kabira, Shiraho, and other areas.
A festival giving thanks for the harvest and praying for abundance in the coming year. The Shichi Festival in Kabira is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
One of the island's largest citizen festivals. With a grand parade, stage live performances, and fireworks, the whole island gets excited.
A pottery market where kilns from the island gather. Unique "Ishigaki Ware" and Shisa statues are exhibited and sold.
【Nov 30 - Jan 4】Held for the first time this year! A winter light event starting with the Lantern Festival. Details here ▶