Naha Haarii — new port pier

photo by N · Public domain

The 52nd year of dragon boats in Naha's new port, fixed on 3–5 May every year.

For three days, always on 3–5 May, teams row dragon-shaped boats (爬竜船) in the basin of Naha's new port, in front of thousands of spectators on the quayside. The highlight is the 5th: the strongest teams compete, and in the evening fireworks close the event. In 2026 it is the 52nd edition.

Rowing-boat racing came to Naha from China centuries ago, as a rite to pray for a good catch. Unlike most Okinawan hārī, which are tied to the lunar calendar (旧暦5月4日, ‘Yukkanuhii’), the Naha one is fixed to the modern calendar (always 3–5 May, within Golden Week) precisely to make it easier to visit for people coming from elsewhere. It is organised by the Naha Hārī committee.

ℹ️ Three days, 3–5 May, on the quayside of Naha's new port (那覇港新港ふ頭, 那覇市港町1-14). The rest of the year the port area remains a working pier, with no particular tourist appeal.

🚉 Ameku · 20 min walk

Sources: okinawastory.jp

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