2026 The 56th Naha Tug of War
Culture & Tradition

2026 The 56th Naha Tug of War

This is the largest traditional event in Naha City, and is a festival in which the world's largest straw rope, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, is divided into east and west for the rope-grinding contest. After the Hatagashira procession parades down Kokusai-dori (International Street), about 15,000 people will be invited to the venue at the Kumoji intersection on National Route 58 to do the tug of war. Anyone can jump in and participate, and tourists can enjoy this autumn tradition for free.

What is the 56th Naha Tug of War 2026?

The Naha Tug of War is a traditional event that has been held since the days of the Ryukyu Dynasty and is the largest festival in Naha City.

Schedule for the day of the festival (in previous years)

  • **11:30-14:00 Hatagashira (Ufun Nasunei) **: Hatagashira and traditional performing groups from each town parade down Kokusai-dori.
  • 14:30-17:00 Tug of War: All traffic will be closed to traffic at Kumoji intersection on Route 58. Anyone can jump in and join the tug of war.
  • Same day: RBC Citizens' Festival will be held at the Okuyama Sports Park.

Points for spectators

  • Since the area around the Kumoji intersection is very crowded, we recommend using the Yui Rail "Kencho-mae" or "Miebashi" stations.
  • It is believed to bring good luck if you take a piece of the rope home after the tug-of-war is over, making it popular among tourists.

Event Information

  • Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
  • Venue: Kumoji intersection on Route 58 / Kokusai-dori Street / Okuyama Sports Park
  • Admission: Free
  • Official Website: https://www.naha-otsunahiki.org/
#traditional event #tug of war #Guinness #Naha #autumn #Kokusai-dori #world's largest #tug of war

Event Info

Date
October 11, 2026 – October 11, 2026
Venue
Route 58 Kumoji intersection, Kokusai-dori, Okumuyama Sports Park
Address
Kumoji, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture (Kumoji intersection, Route 58)
Fee
Free of charge (both viewing and participation are free of charge)
Official Website
Visit Website

Related Events