2026 Sendai Great Tug-of-War

About this event

Held annually in Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture, on the day before the Autumnal Equinox in September, the "2026 Sendai Great Tug-of-War" is a traditional event boasting over 420 years of history and is known as Japan's largest tug-of-war. In March 2024, it was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. On the day of the event, starting in the morning, around 1,500 people—including the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Sendai, the Construction Industry Association, local junior high and high school students, and general citizens—unite to weave a giant rope measuring 365 meters in length and weighing about 7 tons. At night, approximately 3,000 men called "Hadaka," who are shirtless and wrapped in sarashi cloths, vigorously pull this giant rope against each other. The fierce clash of the "Oshitai" (pushing teams) thrusting into the opponent's territory overwhelms spectators, and their heroic figure is the true highlight of the festival. According to one theory, it is said to have been started by Yoshihiro Shimazu during the Battle of Sekigahara to boost morale. This historic festival is also designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Kagoshima Prefecture.

Venue

Satsumasendai City

Satsumasendai, Kagoshima