Eisa is a style of dancing that originated throughout the Okinawan islands, and each year in early August the Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri draws in hundreds of thousands of spectators. For those who can't get to Okinawa, the Shinjuku Eisa Festival is a great way to experience this part of the region's rich culture, and it has been running for almost 20 years now.
At the event, Eisa dancers from across the Kanto region will perform, complete with traditional drums, costumes, and music. In previous years the crowd numbers have exceeded a million, so anticipate a large turnout.
The event is free to enjoy, so if you're in the area be sure to check it out.
Getting there
The festival takes place around the east exit area of Shinjuku Station. The station is served by various lines including the JR Yamanote Line, the Keio Line, the Odakyu Odawara Line, the Toei Oedo Line, and the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line.
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