Undoukai is an annual sports day held at Japanese elementary schools in spring or autumn. Many other countries might have sports days, but undoukai activities can be uniquely Japanese.
The entire student body is divided into red and white teams, competing in events like tsunahiki (a good old-fashioned tug-of-war), tama-ire (throwing bean bags into overhead baskets), odori (dance performances featuring everything from classic bops to anime themes and contemporary hits), kumitaiso (human pyramids), etc.
Many of the games focus on teamwork rather than individual ability — even running is usually a relay. Tama-ire is also done as a team, as well as tsunahiki of course. The games teach students to trust their teammates and work together.
One of my favorite aspects of undoukai is the community vibe. Especially with parents bringing homemade bento (boxed meals) and setting up picnic sheets around the school field, it feels like a large-scale neighborhood meet-up!
