Experience Japanese dragon boat races in Yokohama May 30-31

(Photo courtesy of The Yokohama International Dragon Boat Association)

Dragon boat races are a popular spring and summer time activity that is a tradition in Okinawa’s Naha Port. Hundreds of rowers hop on the wooden boats to battle it out every year during the Golden Week holidays.

Dragon boats, also known as Ryusen, are long, narrow vessels decorated with a dragon’s head and tail, with a large drum mounted on board. Originating in China, they are crewed by one drummer, one steerer and 10 to 18 paddlers.

However, if you’re in Japan’s Kanto Plain, you won’t have to travel to Okinawa to enjoy the thrill of watching the races. The Yokohama Dragon Boat Race is coming to Yamashita Park on May 30-31.

The dragon boat race in Yokohama began in 1994 as part of “Yokohama Kaikokosai” port opening festival, one of the city’s largest annual events.

This year, 127 teams will race on three dragon boats over a 260‑meter course between Osanbashi Pier and Memorial Ship Hikawa-maru. The top three teams from the preliminary rounds can advance to the finals to compete for the Yokohama Mayor’s Cup, the Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Cup and the Hong Kong Cup.

Although the application period for participants ended in April, you can still enjoy the exciting view of these unique-shaped boats competing in the waters off the scenic park during the two-day event.

While you’re enjoying the races, you can snack on the many festival foods that will be sold during the event.

(Photo courtesy of The Yokohama International Dragon Boat Association)

Yokohama Dragon Boat Race

Location: Yamashita Park (279 Yamashitacho, Naka-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Dates: May 30-31

Website: https://yokohama-dragon.com/

Phone: 045-261-1163