If you’ve ever wondered what summer looks like at the northern tip of Okinawa’s main island, here’s your chance to find out. The 37th Kunigami Village Festival is back this August, and it’s bringing fish, fireworks, and a few contests that might just make you question your life choices.
We’re talking fresh fish grab battles, speed-eating watermelon and goya soup (yes, goya soup), and enough live music to keep your hips swaying until the fireworks crack the night sky. And because Kunigami is surrounded by ocean and forest, there’s even a Forest Therapy Experience Tour so you can claim you did something “wellness-related” before diving into beer contests.
Event Details
📅 Date & Time
- Saturday, August 16, 2025 – 16:30 to 21:30
- Sunday, August 17, 2025 – 13:30 to 21:30
📍 Main Venue
Kunigami Junior High School Grounds
1463 Hentona, Kunigami Village, Okinawa | Google Pin
💰 Admission: Free
Day 1 – Saturday, August 16
- 08:00 – Forest Therapy (reservation required, tour provided in Japanese only)
- 09:00 – Park Golf Tournament (because golf, but tiny)
- 12:00–15:00 – Firefighting Fair at the General Gymnasium parking lot. Fire truck displays, smoke tent, extinguisher fun, and probably more hoses than you’ve ever seen in one place. Also, the Children’s Pool is open at the festival grounds for splashing around.
- 16:30 – Opening Ceremony
- 16:50 – Local Circle Performances (think community talent show, Okinawan style)
- 17:15 – Special Guests from Yogi Town
- 18:15 – Park Golf Awards Ceremony
- 18:35 – Prize Raffle (where you discover your luck is about the same as last year)
- 19:55 – Stage Live with Yanbaru Miyagi
- 20:30 – Eisa Dance by the Kunigami Youth Association
- 20:50 – Bon Dance – time to join in, even if you don’t know the steps.
Day 2 – Sunday, August 17
- 08:00 – Forest Therapy (reservation required)
- 14:30 – Log-Cutting Contest (release your inner lumberjack)
- 15:30 – Fresh Fish Grab Contest – Now lottery style! Get your ticket from 12:00–14:00 at the festival HQ, attend the 14:00 drawing, and if your number’s called… prepare to wrestle something slippery.
- 16:15 – Watermelon-Eating, Goya Soup, and Beer-Drinking Contest (probably not all at once, but no promises)
- 17:05 – Karaoke Contest – bring your best power ballad.
- 18:00 – Greeting from the Festival Committee Chairperson
- 18:10 – Creative Eisa by Rekios
- 18:35 – Stage Live: Hajime Nakasone
- 19:15 – Stage Live: Anly
- 19:55 – Stage Live: Kiyama Shoten
- 20:50 – Stargazing – lights out at the venue.
- 20:55 – Fireworks Finale – after a big countdown, the sky goes full Okinawa summer.
Forest Therapy Experience Tour 🌿
Both days, 8:00–11:00, you can take part in a guided walk through Yanbaru’s healing forests. There’s a mountain trail for the adventurous and an easier forest park route for those who prefer their nature a little less sweaty.
- ¥2,500 for junior high and up
- ¥1,500 for elementary kids
- Free for preschoolers with an adult
Reservations required by August 14.
Kunigami Village Festival is a perfect mix of small-town charm, ridiculous competitions, and nature you’ll actually want to brag about later. Whether you’re here for the music, the contests, or just to say you “did Kunigami,” this is your mid-August ticket to summer.
Oki Social Official Gift Shop
Established in 2021 in the heart of Kadena Air Base, Oki Social Store serves the community and all who love Okinawa. Our Okinawa-inspired souvenir shop features art and gifts designed and created by talented local artists right here on the island.
Happiness in Okinawa Is…
A heart warming book that illustrates 365 happy moments about living on Okinawa. Now on sale on Amazon and in store.
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The information provided in this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee its completeness, reliability, or complete accuracy. Travel information, including attractions, accommodations, and transportation, may change over time. Readers are advised to independently verify details, check travel advisories, and make necessary reservations. We do not assume any liability for loss or inconvenience caused by relying on the information. Remember, travel experiences are subjective and vary based on personal preferences. Tailor your travel plans to your individual needs and interests. Happy travels!
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