Dragon Boat Season is upon us! During this time, you can expect to see teams covering the Kadena Marina with paddles and cow bells, chanting in unison while pushing the water to the beat. Why do they practice so hard? Who are these fierce individuals and why do they do it? It’s all volunteer and all for the love of a cultural opportunity that can be found in very few places of the world.
The Dragon Boat Teams
For most of these women and men, this will be their one chance to be part of a team involved in a sport completely new to them, that is one of the unique and exciting parts of being stationed and living in Okinawa, Japan. There are several different teams and each represent unique parts of the island. There is a Navy team, an Army team, an Air Force ladies team, an Air Force men’s team, an Air Force coed team, Yasha Dragons, and one that combines locals and military called Sabani. Many of the teams are full of differing spouses, active duty military and contractors.
Two Types of Dragon Boats
There are two seasons to the dragon boat teams and two drastically different types of boats – a smaller summer boat called sabani with only a few select individuals who compete in multiple competitions all summer all around Okinawa and Mainland Japan. These small fast boats typically hold only 12 people and are typically chosen from the Hari boat team. The other boat is the Magnificent Hari Boat, whose team competed from January to May each year. This 2.5 ton boat is manned by 32 individuals, with 16 on each side. There are two helmsmen assigned to each boat to steer. There are also 2 gong ringer or callers present. In more traditional races, there can also be 2 karate performers and 1 singer as well as 3 flag bearers. In the smaller races, these extra people are not present on the Hari.
Three beautifully colored and carved boats line up and race down a stretch of water, making one left turn and finishing at the start point. The best times proceed to the next race, until the winner is named after finishing first each race. Times are posted after each round. The excitement can be felt which each race and the crowd’s cheering and chanting.
The Dragon Boat Festival
The main event however is typically held on the first week of May each year and spans three days during the middle of the Japanese celebratory week, Golden Week. This is a huge festival in Japan and is held at the Naha Fishing port. While at the festival, you will see food trucks, Japanese beer and saki stands, carnival games and souvenirs. It’s a huge production and many people, school groups and tour groups like Kadena ITT and MCCS Tours will be present for the race. The festival can draw up to 150,000 visitors over the course of the weekend festival with various activities and even chances for the public to paddle in the huge Hari boats.
If you would like to attend, please arrive early to find parking. There are multiple pay lots nearby where you can pay for the spot for a few hours. Bring yen change or bills as many of these lots do not accept card and are only unmanned machines that lock your wheels into place.
Joining a Dragon Boat Team
How do you join these teams? It’s easy! Most of the teams have tryouts starting in December to early January. The go over the positions, how to properly paddle, and what the team’s expectations. Each team has a different practice schedule and differing locations for practice. Commonly you can see them gathered around the Kadena Marina practicing their heart out from January to May of each year. Be dedicated and willing to practice in the water, the rain, and even the occasional Okinawa cold snap!
If you are interested in joining a team, the following are some of the teams that you can find on Facebook for next year!
Kadena Shoguns Dragon Boat Team
Us Navy Men’s Dragon Boat Teams
Kadena Shoguns Men’s Summer Dragon Boat Team
Yasha Dragons Okinawa – Dragon Boat Team
Information for the 2024 Dragon Boat Race
If you would like to attend the May 5, 2024 Race this year, the following is the information regarding this years festivities.
It will held at Nahashin Port and spans the course of 3 days, 4-6 May 2024. The main races that you will be able to see your friends and family compete in, is on 5 May! Arrive early and join in to cheer each team on! It will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to see and experience the live action as these teams battle for victory after months of practice.
Looking for more? Check out these other popular articles on activities in Okinawa.
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