Ryukyuan Dance

Ryukyuan dance can be basically categorized into “Traditional Dance”, “Zo Dance” and “Creative Dance”. Traditional Dance is developed as being performed on the stage for entertaining Imperial envoys (Sapposhi) from China during the Ryukyu Kingdom era and came to attain greatness in the 18th century. Traditional Dance is classified into four kinds; the old married couple’s Rojinodori, young boys’ Wakashuodori, young men’s gallantry expressed in Nisaiodori, and the Onnaodori female dance performed with fascinating Bingata-dyed colorful costumes.

The Zo Dance appeared after Haihan-Chiken, the abolition of clans and the establishment of the prefectural system (after 1879). Adopting music and culture of commoners, it became popular. “Creative Dance” is created by dancers of modern times, and superior works are still being created one after another. In 2009, Ryukyuan Dance was designated as a National Important Intangible Cultural Property.