On Saturday night Jason and I heard drums and singing. Turns out that the local Japanese were celebrating the holiday Obon. Obon is a Buddhist holiday honoring the departed spirits of one's ancestors. They believe that at this time each year, their ancestors spirits' return to visit. Throughout most of Japan you would see "bon odori," traditional folk dancers. But in Okinawa, the "eisa" drum dance is performed instead. Quite interesting and cultural!
This particular dancer was really interesting. He was very serious about his dancing/drumming. You could tell this was something he took great pride in.
The men pictured are playing the traditional Okinawan instrument "sanshin." It is very similar to a banjo. The body is covered with snake skin. 
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