Celebrated on and around Japan's Marine Day (Umi no Hi) national holiday in July, the Motobu Ocean Festival honours the sea that defines Okinawan life. Outrigger canoe (sabani) races reflect the ancient fishing traditions of Okinawa's seafaring villages, while Shinto-influenced sea blessing ceremonies are conducted for local fishing boats. The event is held near Ocean Expo Park, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing in northern Okinawa. Beach stages host traditional Okinawan folk music, dance, and food stalls serving fresh island seafood.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Matsuri
- Season
- Summer
- Month
- July
- Region
- Okinawa
- Prefecture
- Okinawa
- City
- Motobu
Highlights
- ◆Traditional sabani outrigger canoe races
- ◆Sea blessing ceremony for local fishing fleets
- ◆Live Okinawan folk music and dance on beach stages
- ◆Fresh seafood stalls and Okinawan cuisine
- ◆Combined easily with Ocean Expo Park visit in Motobu