Fiji Culture

Fiji is known for its stunning scenery, from sunlit beaches to lush green rainforests, but there’s so much more to the Fiji Islands than meets the eye. Fiji culture is the real heart of this paradise, filled with vibrant traditions, welcoming people, and experiences that go beyond the beautiful landscapes.

Close your eyes, and you might hear the beat of a meke dance or the soulful songs of a Sunday choir. Breathe in the aroma of a lovo feast cooking in the earth or the spices of an Indo-Fijian curry. Whether you’re sharing kava in a traditional ceremony or discovering the beauty of locally harvested pearls, immersing yourself in Fijian culture makes every moment here even more unforgettable.

Fijian Way of Life

Traditional Village Tour

Explore local Fijian village life beyond the resort by visiting Vivilli village, conveniently located across the street from Namale Resort & Spa, or Naidi village, just a quick five-minute drive away with our air-conditioned transfer. A village tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Fijian life and culture.

Upon arrival, it’s customary for someone from the group, accompanied by our Namale Resort & Spa tour guide, to present the village chief with an offering of kava root as a sign of respect and gratitude for allowing the visit. Following the ceremony, enjoy a guided walking tour of the village, where you can visit community gathering spots and local homes, interact with enthusiastic children, and browse handmade goods crafted by village women. Learn about village life, including communal cooking and living without electricity, for an authentic glimpse into Fiji island culture.

Indo-Fijian Night

Life in Fiji is a blend of rich cultures, and with nearly 40% of the population being Indo-Fijian, Namale Resort & Spa celebrates this influence with a special weekly Indo-Fijian night. Step into a vibrant scene at the Main Bure restaurant, decorated for the occasion, and enjoy an evening show featuring an Indo-Fijian band and Bollywood-inspired dance performances. Savor a unique menu with Indo-Fijian dishes, flavorful curries, and a variety of sweet and savory bites. For a final touch, stop by the complimentary Mendhi station on the Main Bure’s front deck for a beautiful, temporary henna tattoo.

Savusavu Town

A day trip to Savusavu Town offers a wonderful way to experience the true culture of Fiji, just a quick 10-minute ride from our resort. Spend the day exploring the local scene – browse shops filled with souvenirs and handmade crafts and try out a few Fijian phrases with the friendly locals. Savusavu is a charming slice of island life, often called “Fiji’s best-kept secret” for its relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

Music, Dance and Craftsmanship

Fijian Meke Performance

Meke performances are integral to Fijian culture, showcasing traditional song and dance that narrates the island’s history, love stories, and legends. Experience the vibrant spirit of Fiji as the vakatara (orchestra) and mantara (dancers) in traditional attire perform rhythmic movements to percussive drumming and clapping.

Witness captivating performances, including a dynamic spear dance by Fijian warriors and an elegant fan dance by village women. All ages, from children to elders, participate in these special performances, fostering a sense of community and energy. After the meke, join the group for a taralala, a lively dance enjoyed by locals and guests alike.

Pearl Farm Tour

Explore the fascinating farming and cultivation of some of the world’s rarest saltwater pearls, grown right in Savusavu Bay. Our activities team can arrange an affordable tour with local operator J. Hunter Pearls. Head to their showroom to learn more about the process and browse these unique pearls in shades of chocolate, pistachio, copper, and gold. Then, you’ll snorkel above the underwater farms, watching as pearl oysters thrive on ropes below the surface.

Culinary Delights

Kava Drinking Ceremonies

Kava, Fiji’s national drink, is central to the island’s culture, with the kava ceremony being a must-have Fiji experience. Made from the crushed root of the Yaqona plant, it’s strained with water into a communal bowl called a tanoa. Served in a half coconut shell known as a “bilo,” kava offers a mild sedative effect, promoting relaxation. The ceremony’s communal aspect is essential, often welcoming visitors and marking special occasions, fostering respect, warmth, and hospitality among locals and travelers. To partake in this Fiji tradition, try a high tide (full cup) or low tide (half cup), and don’t forget to clap once and say “Bula!” before drinking, followed by three claps afterward.

Lovo Dinner

Fiji’s culinary delights offer a compelling fusion of flavors inspired by its diverse cultural heritage and abundant natural Fiji resources. Every bite is a taste of paradise, from fresh seafood caught daily to tropical fruits bursting with sweetness, every bite is a taste of paradise. Traditional Fijian dishes like kokoda (marinated fish salad) and lovo (earth oven-cooked meats and vegetables) showcase indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques passed down through generations. Influences from Indian and European cuisines add depth and variety to the culinary landscape, with dishes like curries and roti becoming beloved staples.

Philosophy of Fiji

Fiji’s history and culture are deeply rooted in a philosophy of community, connection, and respect for nature. Fijians have a strong sense of family and village life, where everyone contributes to and benefits from the community. This communal way of living shapes the warmth and friendliness that visitors experience as part of the famous “Bula Spirit.”

Throughout Fiji’s history, the islands have blended influences from Indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, and other cultures, creating a society that celebrates diversity while maintaining rich traditions. From traditional ceremonies to heartfelt hospitality, the philosophy here is simple: life is meant to be enjoyed together, with kindness and respect for the land and each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Fiji Culture?

Fiji culture is a blend of traditions, languages, and arts shaped by the indigenous Fijian people and influenced by other cultures. It emphasizes community, respect for elders, and traditional ceremonies like dances and kava rituals. Celebrating and preserving Fijian culture is essential to the nation’s identity.

What Are Some Examples of Fijian Culture?

Traditional ceremonies such as mekes (dances) and yaqona (kava) rituals are excellent examples of Fijian history and culture. The rich local culture is also reflected in the intricate craftsmanship of woodcarving and pottery, traditional storytelling and oral traditions, and vibrant festivals celebrating cultural heritage and customs. Fijian cuisine, featuring dishes like kokoda (marinated fish salad) and lovo (earth oven-cooked meats and vegetables), represents the country’s diverse cultural influences.

What Are Three Cultural Facts About Fiji?

• Community-Centric Society: Fiji’s island culture strongly emphasizes community and communal living, with close-knit family ties and collective decision-making common across society.
• Rich Oral Traditions: Fijian culture has a rich heritage of storytelling and oral traditions, with myths, legends, and folktales passed down through generations as a means of preserving history and cultural values.
• Traditional Ceremonies: Traditional ceremonies such as mekes (dances) and yaqona (kava) rituals are integral to Fijian culture, serving as important social and spiritual practices that strengthen community bonds and honor ancestral customs.