Miyakojima Myakutsutsu

About this event

"Myakutsutsu," the largest event in the Nishihara settlement of Miyako Island, is a festival praying for bountiful harvests and the prosperity of descendants. In 2026, it will be held for four days starting Thursday, September 17. Highlights of the festival include a parade while dancing the Kuicha on the afternoon of the second day (the 18th) and dedicated sumo matches. In addition, on September 16, the day before the first day, a program is scheduled to guide visitors through locations connected to Myakutsutsu while walking through the settlement. Myakutsutsu is also held on Ikema Island and in the Sarahama settlement of Irabu Island, allowing visitors to compare and enjoy the festivals across all three locations. This festival is held in three areas—the Sarahama settlement, Ikema Island, and the Taira-Nishihara district—with the first day called "Arabi," the second day "Nnakanuhii," the third day "Atonuhii," and the final day "Butoibii." Regarding the origin of the festival, theories suggest it was either a reward for completing tax payments or an effort to enjoy earthly life due to the impermanence of existence, with the former considered more probable. The festival proceedings are led by Miuya, centered around the Tsukasa-uya of each Mutu.

Venue

Nishihara

Taira Nishihara, Miyakojima, Okinawa 906-0005