About this event
The Kaneshiro Lion Dance (Kaneshiro Shishimai) is a traditional event held in the Kaneshiro district of Kumejima Town, Okinawa Prefecture. It is said to have begun about 200 years ago to drive away disasters and epidemics from the community and pray for a bountiful harvest of the five grains. In this lion dance, a beautiful woman first performs an elegant dance, and two figures called "Hachiburo", captivated by her dance, appear. They lure the lion out from inside a cave and dance together. The highlight is the lion and Hachiburo dancing sometimes vigorously and sometimes gently to the music. This traditional lion dance deeply reflects the culture and history of the region and brings deep impression to visitors.
Official website (Japanese) ↗Venue
Kumejima Town
Kumejima, Shimajiri District, Okinawa
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