Eisa is a traditional performing art performed during Okinawa's old calendar Obon (13th–15th of the 7th lunar month). As a form of "Bon Odori" (ancestral welcome and send-off dance), young people parade through neighborhoods beating drums.
Believed to have originated from nembutsu odori (Buddhist prayer dances) in the 17th century, each region has developed its own distinct style. The performances feature powerful drumming with large and small taiko drums, sanshin (three-stringed lute), and singers.
Styles vary by region — Koza (Okinawa City), the northern and southern regions, and the outer islands each have their own character. "Koza Eisa" is particularly known for its powerful style and is the centerpiece of the All-Island Eisa Festival.
In recent years, Eisa has gained fans across Japan, with groups forming nationwide. At Okinawa World, Eisa performances can be seen year-round.
