Arguably, Okinawa’s most spectacular annual event takes place in downtown Naha on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026.

With more than 500 years of history, the Naha Tug-of-War has thousands of participants and spectators to see the enormous Guinness-recognized rope stretching about 200 meters on Highway 58 in the heart of the city, where teams representing eastern and western Naha battle for victory.

The events begin on Kokusai Street with the Hatagashira Parade. Representatives from neighborhoods across Naha carry towering, elaborately decorated banners while performers fill the street with music, dancing and martial arts demonstrations.

The action then moves to the Kumoji intersection on Route 58. Before the contest begins, the massive male and female sections of the rope are joined in a dramatic ritual known as kanuchichiji. Costumed performers portraying historical figures strike commanding poses atop the rope before the signal is given—and thousands of hands begin pulling at once.

Visitors are welcome to grab one of the smaller ropes extending from the main rope and join the action alongside local participants. Surrounded by cheers, drums and an electrifying crowd, it is a thrilling opportunity to experience Okinawa’s ichariba chode spirit—the belief that once we meet, we are family.

The festival celebrations begin on Saturday evening with a Traditional Performing Arts Night Parade along Kokusai Street and a community stage show in front of Palette Kumoji. The main tug-of-war takes place the following day, making this one of the most exciting weekends of the year in Naha.

#NahaTugOfWar #NahaOtsunahiki

Main event: Oct. 11 (Sunday), 2026
Hatagashira Parade: 11:30 – 14:00
Place: Kokusai Street
Naha Tug-of-War: 14:30 – 17:00
Place: Highway 58, Kumoji Intersection

Traditional Performing Arts Night Parade & Community Stage Show
Date: Oct. 10 (Saturday), 2026
Time: 17:00–20:30
Place: Kokusai Street and the plaza in front of Palette Kumoji

Schedules are subject to change. Check the official Naha Tug-of-War website for the latest information. The Oct. 10 program is confirmed by the Naha City Government.