What is Takai?

What is Taikai?

Taikai is a grand festival celebrating the people and culture of Okinawa. The Worldwide Uchinanchu Festival, or Taikai, sponsored by the Okinawa Prefectural Government, happens every 5 years. The 7th Worldwide Uchinanchu Festival will take place in October of 2022.

Okinawans from all over the world attend this celebratory event. There are approximately 420,000 Uchinanchu or individuals of Okinawan ethnicity living around the world. The largest populations outside of Japan are located in Brazil, Hawaii, and Peru.

Taikai Events:

Festival Eve Parade - October 30

This is the first chance for local Okinawans to interact with participants from all over the world. Marvel at large numbers of Uchinanchu dressed in their home-country attire as they make their way down Kokusai Dori Street.

Opening Ceremony - October 31

The official kick-off! The Opening Ceremony welcomes Uchinanchu from all over the world. A Grand Sanshin Celebration will echo under the beautiful skies of Okinawa.

Closing Ceremony and Grand Finale - November 3

A time to reflect on the meaningful and memorable connections made during Taikai. Past finales have never disappointed, featuring Okinawa’s best in entertainment and performances by visiting festival participants.