Hari (Miyakojima)

Hari is a traditional event unique to Miyakojima, an island surrounded by the sea on all sides where people have long lived alongside the ocean. This traditional sea festival gives thanks to the sea god and prays for a bountiful catch, and it is held at fishing ports around the island on the 4th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar.
Hari is also held in other parts of Okinawa Prefecture, but in Miyakojima it begins with all participants performing a traditional group dance called Kuicha, setting it apart from the other remote islands.

After dancing Kuicha, the Ugwan Hari is held to give thanks for the blessings of the sea and pray for safe voyages and a bountiful catch. This is a parade of fishing boats flying big catch flags, showing off their proudly displayed banners to visitors as they flutter in the wind. After that, Hari races are also held for children, women's associations, and people from companies and schools.

Join this traditional event, filled with cheers and a lively seaside atmosphere, and you are sure to experience the charm of Miyakojima on a deeper level.