Every year on May 4th in the lunar calendar, communities around Okinawa host the traditional Haarii dragon boat races to win fame and secure the fishermen safe and bountiful voyages for the year.

OIST has a long tradition of being invited to the local Onna race held in Maegenaku Fishing Port, and we have our very own hand-crafted and blessed sabani (traditional fishing boat used in the race). 

In this information session, we will introduce the long-standing tradition of Haarii boat race, and give the history of the OIST sabani and our participation in the yearly races. It's also an opportunity to meet the current team, and learn how to become part of it! No prior experience is needed to join the team - only a simple swimming test for your own safety.