Eisa
Okinawan drum dancing
One of Okinawan traditional performing arts, akin to mainland Japan's Bonodori, is Eisa. Primarily performed by local youth associations, each community has its own style, and on the nights of the Bonodori, they dance through the streets of their area.
Even though "Eisa" is a single term, its forms can be classified into several types. "Taiko Eisa," which uses three types of drums: Oodaiko (large drums), Shime-daiko (a kind of small drum), and Paranku (a handheld drum), has become a renowned summer tradition in Okinawa.
There is also "Teodori only Eisa," which does not use drums and can be found in several locations in the northern part of the main island. It is believed to be the oldest form of Eisa.
In recent years, many creative Eisa groups have emerged, incorporating Eisa styles, using pop music, and wearing innovative costumes.
We will set up a workshop corner where children can enjoy decorating cardboard paranku with their favorite colors. Create your own paranku in your preferred colors!
Paranku coloring/decorating
We will display three types of real drums! Usually only seen in performances, you can hand on, touch the authentic drums, and take a photo with it!
Displaying 3kinds of Eisa taiko
You can check out books introducing Eisa and watch a video of the World Eisa Festival, in which the organizing group, Vancouver Okinawa Taiko has participated! Don’t miss this opportunity to know authentic Okinawan Eisa!
Eisa books and video
