Portable Shrine, a Rare Sight in Okinawa
For residents of small islands, festivals are sacred observances as well as entertaining events. Festivals with "Mikoshi," a portable shrine, began on the island since their colonization, largely due to the influence of Hachijo Island natives, and the tradition has been passed on till the present day. The biggest of them all is the Daitogu Festival in September. On the eve of the festival the portable shrine is carried everywhere around the island. Sumo-wrestling exhibitions of varying styles, Edo and Okinawan, are performed on the day of the festival. Eisa dances are also performed during the Obon observances.
