Dragon Boat Races

Festival Location: All Areas, Japan

Festival Type(s): Dragon Boat Racing Festivals , Water Sports Events , Traditional Festivals

Dragon Boat Races

by © Linda Gillis 2008

Throughout the spring and early summer an annual tradition is carried out in many of the fishing ports around Okinawa. This colorful event is called the Haari or Dragon Boat Races.

As with many of the traditional festivals, this one has it's beginnings in a centuries old legend, although there is some dispute about which legend started it all.

The first legend tells of the tragic death of the Chinese poet, Kutsugen. It is said the adored poet drowned in China at the age of 66 as admirers looked on in distress from the shores. Many people quickly put their fishing boats into the water and rowed out to try to save him. The felt if they had only been faster they could have rescued the famous poet. It is said that in an effort to improve their speed the races were held every year as a tribute to the distinguished writer.

The other legend relates the tale of 2 local students who received instruction from a famous teacher from Naha. After their studies were complete both men became magistrates. One moved to the northern town of Nago while the other remained in Naha. The Naha magistrate soon became tired of all the references to his wise old teacher and ordered the teacher to be banished to the Yaeyama Islands. Years passed and the wise teacher was asked to return to Naha to restore a monument. He was then ordered back to Yaeyama. The teacher became so distraught upon having to leave his beloved city once again that he threw himself from the ship as it passed through the harbor entrance. Many boatmen tried to save him, but they were too late. They vowed to practice the improve their rowing speed in his honor and supposedly the Naha Haari was created.

Many teams compete at the Naha Haari, including men's and women's American teams. The winners are victorious more through teamwork than any other skill. The crew is made up of 32 rowers, 2 runner tenders, 3 flag bearers, 2 cheerleaders and a singer. The colorful boats are 50 feet long and weigh around 2 tons. The singer stands in the helm and beats a drum to keep the rowers synchronized. Working together, especially in the turns, is the key to a victory.

Anyone who wants to take part in the races without actually being in the boat is encouraged to contact the teams. Volunteers are always in demand to carry equipment, time laps, help with refreshments and just cheer on the team!

The Naha Haari is held during Golden Week so the crowds are large and excitement is high. There is also a festival celebrating the Haari with plenty of food and game booths to be found nearby.

If you would like to experience the Haari but want to avoid the Golden Week crowds, you might want to check on the Haaris held in other ports in Okinawa. The Haari festival held at Manza Beach includes a fabulous fireworks display after dark.

Another great haari is the Matapai Ocean Festival held at the end of May on Ishigaki Island. Teams from all over Asia and the United States compete. The teams use the smaller traditional fishing boats. These teams consist of 10 rowers and 1 helmsman.

For more information on any of these wonderful festivals watch the local papers or contact any of the military base recreation centers. This is a wonderful opportunity to take part in a local custom and have a lot of fun!

Check out Linda's fantastic site related to all things Okinawan at http://www.okinawaninfo.com

by Linda Gillis