The special "Okinawa Bullfighting for Tourists" program features two exhibition matches between the bulls in addition to a lecture, photo session, and entertainment.

Okinawan bullfighting (Tōgyū) is a traditional cultural experience highly recommended to anyone desiring to gain a deeper understanding of Okinawa's culture and cultural spirit. However, watching a regular tournament usually takes the whole day, making it difficult for visitors with limited time. Uruma City in the central part of the main island, still has many active bull stables. The bullfighting is very popular there, and it has been even designated as a City-Designated Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

"Okinawa Bullfighting for Tourists" is an event specifically recommended for visitors. It allows them to experience the immense impact of bullfighting up close, and the events are packed with special activities to ensure that even first-timers can fully enjoy. In 2026, the events are held on June 20 (Sat), July 18 (Sat), August 11 (Tue), and September 21 (Mon).

Besides bullfighting exhibition matches, the program in the half-day bullfighting matches consists of entertainment by local Uruma City youth groups and other special activities.

An Interactive Match Where You Get to Decide!

This event features an interactive bullfighting exhibition match where spectators can vote and participate using venue-exclusive "Judgment Towels (Red/White)." On the day of the event, visitors can take photos with the bulls and purchase exclusive limited-edition merchandise.

The events are narrated by Taishi Iha, Okinawa's one and only bullfighting live announcer! No advance reservations but only same-day walk-ins are accepted. Please note that ticket payment is cash only. Groups of 15 or more or those arriving by tour bus, are asked to contact the organizers in advance.

The spectators can meet the bulls both in and outside the arena,

What is Okinawan Bullfighting?

Unlike with Spanish bullfighting, the bulls fight each other and are not harmed by humans. The match is decided the moment one of the bulls turns back and runs away. For instance, the "Ushi no Tsunotsuki" (Bull Prodding) in Niigata is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, where matches are intentionally ended in a draw to ensure the bulls are not excessively injured.

2026 Event Dates

• June 20 (Sat)
• July 18 (Sat)
• August 11 (Tue/Holiday)
• September 21 (Mon/Holiday)

Admission:

Adults (Junior High School students and older): 2,000 yen
Children (Elementary School students and older): 1,000 yen
Children under elementary school age: Free
*Cash only

Time:

Registration: 9:00
Doors Open: 9:30 (Re-entry permitted during the event)

Place: Ishikawa Multi-Purpose Dome (Bullfighting Arena)
*All-weather indoor facility with a roof (Safe to visit even in the rain)
Wheelchair accessible / Barrier-free viewing stands available

Event Schedule

10:00 – Opening Act
Live traditional folk music performance by artists from Uruma City.

10:15 – Bullfighting Lecture
MC Taishi Iha will explain the highlights and key points of bullfighting in an easy-to-understand manner.

10:25 – Bullfighting Exhibition Matches (2 Bouts)
Experience the full impact of powerful bulls up close! This is an interactive exhibition match where your cheers can help determine the winner.
*Spectators can participate in voting using the venue-exclusive Judgment Towels (Red/White).

11:00 – Photo Session with the Bulls
A rare and precious opportunity for anyone interested to take photographs with the bulls—something you normally cannot do!