Iicha Icha Festival 2024 in Yokosuka
The Iicha Icha Festival 2024 will spread Okinawan energy on September 7th and 8th, 2024. This festival is one of the largest Okinawan outdoor events on the Miura Peninsula, held annually in Yokosuka City since 2007. The festival’s name combines the Okinawan dialect words “iicha” (drunkard) and “icha” (encounter), reflecting the Okinawan spirit of valuing connections between people.
About Iicha Icha Festival 2024
At the Iicha Icha Festival, visitors can enjoy a unique lineup of performances, including traditional Okinawan Eisa dance and Shamisen music, alongside a special U.S. Seventh Fleet Band performance exclusive to Yokosuka. The festivities extend beyond the main venue, with stages set up throughout the city, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore Yokosuka while enjoying the event.
Whether you’re attending as a couple, with family, with friends, or by yourself, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As the Okinawan saying goes, “Ichariba chode” (Once we meet, we are family)! We look forward to seeing you at the festival!
Dates
September 7, 2024 (Saturday) from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
September 8, 2024 (Sunday) from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Venues
Main Venue
Yokosuka City Hall Park (9 Ogawa-cho, Yokosuka)
Sub Venues
1. LIDRE Yokosuka (2-6 Otaki-cho, Yokosuka)
2. “Y Deck Plaza” under Keikyu Yokosuka-Chuo Station
3. Ichigo Yokosuka Port Market
Map
Social media
Event Flyer
Food & Drinks
Every year, the festival features a wide array of Okinawan food stalls, each showcasing its specialty dishes made with authentic Okinawan ingredients.
From Okinawa soba and sea grapes to a variety of Okinawan desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Pair your meal with Orion beer, awamori, or a soft drink, and you’ll feel like you’re in Okinawa!
*Photos and illustrations of food and drinks are for illustrative purposes only. The vendors and menu items may vary each year.
Eisa Dance
Throughout the festival, you’ll find Eisa dance performances at various locations, enhancing the Okinawan atmosphere.
At the end of the Iicha Icha Festival, we’ll also have a Kachāshī, traditionally performed at the climax of a celebration in Okinawa.
Come and dance with us!
Stages
From Okinawan artists to performances by Yokosuka’s Seventh Fleet Band, the festival offers a wide range of entertainment beyond the main venue.
The entire town transforms into a vibrant celebration of Iicha Icha Festival!
*Photos of artists are for illustrative purposes only. Performers are subject to change.
Experiences & Shopping
For those who want more than just watching, why not try a hands-on Sanshin experience where you can learn to play this traditional Okinawan instrument?
There are also Okinawan specialty goods, Yokosuka souvenirs, and Iicha Icha Festival T-shirts available for purchase.
Plus, we have many other exciting activities planned!
*Photos are for illustrative purposes only. Booths and offerings are subject to change.
Information
Official Website
Contact Information
If you have any questions, please send an email to info@ichafes.jp.
Organizer Information
Organizer Iicha Icha Festival Executive Committee
Supporters Okinawa Prefecture, Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau, Yokosuka City, Yokosuka City Tourist Association
Collaborators Ichigo Yokosuka Port Market, LIDRE Yokosuka, Keikyu Corporation, Yokosuka Okinawa Culture Promotion Office
Festival Venues and Top Sightseeing Spots in Yokosuka
Discover Yokosuka through its vibrant festival venues and must-see sightseeing spots. From the main festival grounds at Yokosuka City Hall Park to the charming areas surrounding the sub-venues, you can experience the local culture, food, and history.
Ichigo Yokosuka Port Market
Yokosuka Port Market is a vibrant marketplace located by the Yokosuka waterfront, offering fresh local produce, seafood, and specialty products.
It’s a great spot to experience the flavors of Yokosuka and taste local culture!
Opening Hours 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Please note that hours may vary by store, check out the FLOOR GUIDE for details.)
LIDRE Yokosuka
“Y Deck Plaza” under Keikyu Yokosuka-Chuo Station
Shiyakushomae Park
Sarushima
Sarushima Island is the only natural island in Tokyo Bay. It offers a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, including fishing, swimming, and barbecuing. The island’s area is about four times the size of the Yokohama Stadium field. A short, approximately 10-minute boat ride from Mikasa Pier makes it easily accessible.
Once a fortress of the Imperial Japanese Army, the island was off-limits to civilians until the end of World War II. Today, you can explore remnants of its military past, such as brick tunnels and gun battery ruins, amidst lush greenery. The island also served as the filming location for the Shocker base in the Kamen Rider series.
Sarushima is packed with activities like fishing, barbecuing, and swimming. Fishing tournaments are held in the spring and fall. For more information about Sarushima ferry services, barbecuing on the island, and fishing tournaments, please visit the Triangle Corporation website.
Discover Yokosuka: Burgers, BBQ, and Seafood Delights
Welcome to Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, where culinary adventures await you! Whether you’re a burger enthusiast, a BBQ lover, or a seafood connoisseur, Yokosuka offers something for everyone.
Dive into our comprehensive guide to the best dining experiences this charming coastal city has to offer.
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