This is just one-half of the rope that is used each year in the Naha Tsunahiki, the world’s largest annual tug-of-war.
The rope is made of two sections that are connected with a 10-foot wooden pole. It is made of straw over 600 feet long, weighs over 40 tons and cost more than a $170,000.00 to make.
This massive tug-of-war is the climax of the Naha Festival held every October.
Before all Tsunahiki, there is a parade down Kokusai-dōri.
The tall decorative poles known as hatagashira fly high above the parade participants. Teams at hand representing different districts of Naha carry the hatagashira down the street.
Thousands of spectators watch the parade which features a soundtrack of children playing instruments, punctuated by the occasional crackling of fireworks.
The rope lies at the end of the parade route and the crowd growls in anticipation of the fierce battle.
The tug-of-war peaks the east side of Naha against the west side and the hatagashira sway over the crowd representing Naha’s districts on its side.
While the people wait, they are entertained by martial arts, Shisa Dogs and Eisa Dancing.
Half of our family waits below the tug while I retreat with the other half to a balcony on a nearby building for a bird’s eye view of the event.
The crowd passes out smaller ropes that are attached to the big rope which they will use for tugging.
Performer’s representing kings of Naha’s past Dynasties ride above the rope and meet in the middle to challenge each other and command the tug-of-war to begin.
A huge golden ball hanging above the crowd releases confetti and balloons.
Team leaders get in place and prepare to lead their teams to victory.
Once on their way, the team leaders try to coordinate the movement of their team and encourage them to pull harder.
The crowd rocks the rope back and forth. Contestants pull with all their might.
After a long struggle to move the rope, leaders wave the flag to signify the end of the Tsunahiki.
The crowd immediately begins cutting off pieces of the rope because it is considered good luck to take a small section home with you.
We’ve got more great videos to come including shopping at Heiwa-Dori and the famous Shisa Dog. Don’t forget to check out my website straightcompass.com for more great videos about Okinawa and beyond. A special thanks to my subscribers, I'm James Knott. Goodbye!
Transcription by:
Scribe4you Transcription Services