For the first time in three years, the traditional event "Paantu" in Miyakojima, Okinawa Prefecture, was held for the first time in three years.
"Paantu" is a dialect of Miyakojima that represents demons and monsters, and is said to be a god who drives away evil spirits and brings good health.
This is a traditional event in the Shimajiri district of Miyakojima, which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and was held for the first time in three years with thorough infection control measures such as wearing masks.
After 5:00 p.m. on the 5th, three “Paantu” covered in muddy vines appeared and rubbed mud on many families and tourists who had gathered.
Some of them hugged "Paantu" and smeared themselves with mud, while others screamed and ran away or started crying.
A mother whose child was smeared with mud said, "I want you to get rid of the bad luck and grow up healthy."
A local man involved in the event said, "I've been waiting for three years. I want to continue with thorough infection control measures."