Hyuga Hyottoko
Enjoy the outlandish dances at this massive summer festival
If you’re in the Hyuga area of north Miyazaki on the first Saturday night of August, you’re in for a treat. The Hyuga Hyottoko Summer Festival is one of japan‘s biggest Hyottoko dance festivals and attracts over 2,000 dancers and 70,000 visitors.
The festival takes place in the city of Hyuga, located in northern Miyazaki Prefecture. It is a vibrant and lively event that showcases the unique and traditional Hyottoko dance. The festival is a celebration of the local culture and heritage and has become a significant event in the region.
The Hyottoko dance is a traditional Japanese folk dance that originated in the Hyuga region. It features dancers wearing distinctive costumes and masks, performing comical movements and gestures. The dance is known for its humorous and entertaining nature, and it never fails to captivate the audience.
The festival kicks off with the individual Hyuga Hyottoko competition on the eve of the festival. This competition allows dancers to showcase their skills and creativity in front of a panel of judges. It is a highly anticipated event and sets the stage for the main parade and festival on Saturday night.
The main parade is the highlight of the festival, featuring a procession of dancers dressed in vibrant red and white costumes. The dancers move to the rhythmic beats of drums and the light fluttering of flutes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The parade winds its way through the streets of Hyuga, attracting thousands of spectators who come to witness the spectacle.
One of the unique aspects of the Hyuga Hyottoko Summer Festival is the opportunity for festivalgoers to learn the Hyottoko dance. Free dance instruction classes are offered to those who wish to participate and experience the joy of dancing. These classes provide a fun and interactive way to learn the dance steps and movements.
In addition to the Hyottoko dance, the festival also features other traditional dances such as the Okame dance and the fox dance. These dances add variety and depth to the festival, showcasing different aspects of Japanese culture and folklore.
The dancers’ uniforms consist of a polka dot head towel, a red kimono, a white obi belt, and a fundoshi, a traditional loincloth. The costumes are meticulously designed to reflect the traditional attire worn during the Hyottoko dance. The dancers’ movements are carefully choreographed to highlight the unique features of the costumes and enhance the overall performance.
While the majority of the dances are comical and light-hearted, there are moments of passion and intensity that captivate the audience. The dancers’ movements become more dynamic and energetic, showcasing their skill and dedication to the art of dance. These moments create a sense of excitement and anticipation among the spectators, adding to the overall spectacle of the festival.
The Hyuga Hyottoko Summer Festival is not just about the dances; it is also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and traditions. The festival grounds are filled with food stalls offering a wide variety of local delicacies and treats. Festivalgoers can indulge in traditional Japanese cuisine and experience the flavors of the region. From savory street food to sweet desserts, there is something to satisfy every palate.
In addition to the food stalls, there are also numerous vendors selling traditional crafts and souvenirs. Festivalgoers can browse through a wide selection of handmade items, including pottery, textiles, and accessories. These unique and authentic products serve as reminders of the festival and make for great souvenirs to take home.
The Hyuga Hyottoko Summer Festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region and the vibrant spirit of its people. It brings together locals and visitors from all walks of life to celebrate and appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese dance and music.
To get to the festival, there are various transportation options available. By train, festivalgoers can take the JR Nippo Main Line from Miyazaki Station and head for Nobeoka. From there, they can get off at Hyugashi Station, which is approximately 45 minutes away. By car, festivalgoers can take Route 10 out of the city heading for Nobeoka and look for signs to Hyugashi Station. The journey takes about an hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
It is important to note that festival information is subject to change, so it is advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date details. Additionally, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be additional safety measures and restrictions in place to ensure the health and well-being of all attendees.
In conclusion, the Hyuga Hyottoko Summer Festival is a must-visit event for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant and lively culture of northern Miyazaki. The festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the traditional Hyottoko dance, learn about local traditions, indulge in delicious food, and purchase authentic souvenirs. It is a celebration of the region’s rich heritage and a testament to the passion and dedication of its people. So, mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy the outlandish dances at this massive summer festival.
Address And Maps Location:
1 Uemachi, Hyuga-shi, Miyazaki-ken
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