Okinawan “Tōgyū” is a thrilling and culturally rich form of bullfighting that has been entertaining and uniting communities for over a century. Unlike the matador-style fights of Spain, Okinawan bullfighting features powerful bulls competing against each other in a display of strength, strategy, and endurance with no bloodshed involved.

A unique cultural experience

The tradition of Togyu, also known as “Ushiorase,” dates back to 1907 when a local newspaper first documented a tournament. Originally practiced in rural villages, it evolved into a major form of public entertainment across Okinawa. While early matches were free to attend, entrance fees were introduced after World War II, helping preserve the tradition through the decades.

Today, Okinawa hosts about 40 bullfighting tournaments a year, with Uruma City recognized as the heart of this tradition. The Ishikawa Multipurpose Dome — a modern venue accommodating up to 4,000 spectators — holds around 20 tournaments annually, including the highly anticipated All-Island Bullfighting Championships every May and November.

What to expect

In Okinawan bullfighting, two bulls face off in a circular ring 20 meters in diameter, surrounded by an iron fence. A typical tournament includes 10 matches, ranging from quick, high-impact bouts lasting seconds to tense standoffs that can extend beyond 30 minutes. These matches showcase the bulls’ incredible strength and technical skill, with tactics like “oshi” (frontal pushing), “tsuki” (horn strikes), and “haratori” (side attacks).

Each bull weighs around a ton, double the size of Spanish fighting bulls, and competes by locking horns with its opponent. Victory is claimed when one bull forces the other to retreat. Importantly, fights are carefully managed to prevent injury, and no bulls are ever harmed or killed.

Meet the bulls and handlers

The bulls come from all over Okinawa and other islands. They typically begin competing at the age of 3 or 4 and retire around age 10. Their handlers, called “seko,” guide them using traditional commands called “yagui,” ensuring safety and fair play throughout the match.

Rest assured—the bull handlers (seko) will risk their lives to physically block the bulls from charging into the stands.

Make the most of your visit

Visitors are welcome at tournaments, which are held nearly every Sunday across the island. The general admission for major tournaments is 3,000 yen for men, 2,000 yen for women, 1,000 yen for middle and high school students, and free for elementary school students and younger. For other events, the standard admission is 2,500 yen for men, 2,000 yen for women, and 1,000 yen for middle and high school students.

Note: The tickets are cash only.

For a deeper understanding, special Bullfighting Exhibition Events (Official name: Okinawa Tourist Bullfights/沖縄観光闘牛) are held throughout the year in Uruma City, featuring:

• Bullfighting lectures by expert announcer Taishi Iha
• Exhibition matches (non-competitive)
• Photo opportunities with the bulls

2026 Special Event Dates: July 18 (Sat), Aug 11 (Tue), Sep 21 (Mon)
Tickets: Adults 2000 yen, Children 6 years of age and over 1000 yen
*Check details on the event page
Place: Ishikawa Multipurpose Dome, Uruma City
Time: Venue opens at 9:30; events begin at 10:00

During major tournaments, such as the island-wide championships, Uruma City youth groups often perform Eisa before matches or during breaks.

Father's Day Grand Bullfighting Tournament

Date: Jun. 21 (Sun), 2026
Place: Ishikawa Dome

Heisei Wakainokai Grand Bullfighting Tournament

Date: Jun. 28, 2026
Place: Ishikawa Dome

Ginowan Bullfighting Tournament

Date: Jun. 29, 2025
Place: Ishikawa Dome

All Island Summer Bullfighting Tournament

Date: Aug. 10, 2025
Place: Ishikawa Dome

National Bullfighting  Summit in Okinawa

Date: Nov. 2, 2025 (tentative)
Place: Ishikawa Dome

All-Island Fall Bullfighting Tournament

Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025 (tentative)
Place: Ishikawa Dome

Golden Week Bullfighting Tournament

Date: May 3 (Sun), 2026 (tentative)
Place:  Ishikawa Dome