Old Lunar August Harvest Festival (Ilchayotirukuguchi) - Jichaku & Uchibana Districts

Event Overview

The Old Lunar August Harvest Festival (Ilchayotirukuguchi) is a traditional harvest festival held in the Jichaku and Uchibana districts of Izena Island, Okinawa, to coincide with the 8th month of the lunar calendar. This event expresses gratitude for the year's harvest and serves to preserve the unique local rituals and cultural heritage of the island.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main feature of this festival is the deep-rooted rituals that reflect the local history and culture. The proceedings follow traditional steps specific to the Jichaku and Uchibana districts. Visitors can observe the authentic forms of traditional ceremonies in the remote islands of Okinawa. It is a respectful experience where one quietly observes the lifestyle and rituals passed down through generations alongside the changing seasons.

Schedule

The scheduled date for this event is September 21, 2026. Please note that because the festival is based on the lunar calendar, the date may vary from year to year. As the specific start times and programs may change due to local conditions, weather, or decisions by the community, it is highly recommended to check local information closer to the date.

Venue & Access

The venue is around the Jichaku and Uchibana districts on Izena Island, Okinawa. To reach Izena Island, you must take a ferry or high-speed boat from the Okinawa main island (such as from Motobu area). For movement within the island, renting a car or using a taxi is common. The accommodation in the Jichaku area (Jichaku Furusato no Mura) is located about 10 minutes by car from Nakata Port.

Participation Tips

This event is a sacred local traditional ritual. When observing, please respect the local customs and maintain a quiet, respectful attitude. As this is a remote island, ensure you secure your transportation (such as ferry schedules) in advance. If you plan to stay overnight, please account for potential crowds when planning your trip.

Essentials, Dress Code & Etiquette

Payment Methods

Payments at surrounding facilities and within the local community are primarily CASH ONLY. Credit cards and electronic money are generally not accepted, so please ensure you carry sufficient Japanese Yen.

Language Support

English language support and interpretation are very limited for this event. Most communication is conducted in Japanese, so it is recommended to prepare a translation app.

Reservations

No reservation is required to observe the festival itself. However, if you wish to use local accommodations (such as Jichaku Furusato no Mura), you must contact them in advance via phone to confirm availability.

Dress Code & Manners

Please wear comfortable and modest clothing suitable for the environment. When taking photos, be mindful of your surroundings and ensure your actions do not disrupt the sacred ritual or the local community.