Nao & Shimmy Visit the Shinjuku Eisa Festival
Nao and Shimmy, two nationally licensed tour guides, recently visited the Shinjuku Eisa Festival, one of Tokyo’s most exciting summer events!
The powerful sound of drums echoed through the streets of Shinjuku, accompanied by the energetic calls of “Eiyasa-sa!” With colorful costumes, dynamic dancing, and traditional Okinawan music, the heart of Tokyo was filled with the spirit of Okinawa.
Eisa is a traditional Okinawan folk dance rooted in the Obon season. Traditionally performed on the final day of Obon, it was a way to honor and see off the spirits of ancestors. Dancers would parade through their communities in a style known as “Michi-june,” dancing to the sounds of drums, sanshin, and traditional songs.
But why is there such a major Okinawan festival in Shinjuku?
The connection began in 2001, when an Okinawan Eisa group was invited to perform at a local festival in Shinjuku. The performance was such a success that the first official Shinjuku Eisa Festival was held the following year, in 2002.
More than two decades later, the festival has become one of Shinjuku’s signature summer events. It is also a wonderful example of how Okinawan traditions have found a new home in Tokyo’s vibrant and international Shinjuku district.
And, of course, Nao and Shimmy didn’t just enjoy the performances!
Okinawa soba and Orion Beer were also on the menu!
Great music, powerful dancing, delicious Okinawan food, and a cold Orion Beer — a perfect way to experience a little bit of Okinawa right in the heart of Tokyo.
As nationally licensed tour guides, we believe that experiencing Japanese culture firsthand — and understanding the history and stories behind it — helps us share Japan with visitors from around the world in a deeper, more meaningful way.
