That doesn't look too tough!
A member of one of the many civic groups participating in the parade carries a Hattagashira. That's a bamboo pole about 30 feet high and decorated with flags ornaments and gold designs. They're quite heavy, very susceptible to a gust of wind and some are not very well balanced.
Members of the group take turns carrying this giant pole the length of Kokusai Street. The big deal isn't just to carry it but to rhythmically bounce it up and down as they make their way down toward the big event.
As each member who carries it tires, another will take their turn at it. All about them are others who watch and are ready with fork ended poles to catch it and keep it from falling.
The more unbalanced the carrier appears the greater the skill level. Some members will get almost vertical with their feet well out in front of them. It's quite a spectacle to watch!
In the The Great Naha Tsunahiki photo essay.
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