What’s Bon Odori? Japan’s Soulful Summer Festival

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A Journey into the Heart of Japanese Tradition

When we talk about Japanese summer, Bon Odori is an indispensable tradition.
Held across the country during the summer months, this traditional event brings together all generations – from children to young adults to the elderly – in a unified celebration that transcends mere entertainment.
The rhythmic drumbeats echoing around the central yagura (scaffolding or tower) and the vibrant energy of the dancers create an unforgettable summer night spectacle, offering visitors a profound experience of Japanese culture.
This article delves into the purpose, origins, historical context, and the spiritual essence that Japanese people associate with Bon Odori, exploring the true essence of this captivating tradition.

Table of Contents

Enchanting Summer Nights: Welcome to Bon Odori

Bon Odori is widely recognized as an iconic Japanese summer event, often being the first thing that comes to mind for many when thinking of summer festivities.
Held throughout Japan, Bon Odori attracts a wide range of participants, from children to young adults to the elderly.
This intergenerational participation highlights that Bon Odori is not just a fleeting trend but is deeply rooted in Japanese social structures, possessing a universal appeal that has been passed down through generations.
In a rapidly changing modern society, it’s rare to find a tradition that continues to attract such diverse age groups, testifying to Bon Odori’s adaptability and the strength of its community.
For international visitors, this offers an opportunity not just to observe, but to actively participate in a vibrant, living Japanese tradition, making for a more authentic and memorable experience.

The purpose of this article is to unravel the multifaceted aspects of Bon Odori, including its purpose, origins, historical background, and the spiritual significance it holds for the Japanese people.
We strongly encourage international travelers visiting Japan in the summer to research the dates and locations of local Bon Odori events and experience its charm firsthand.

Comforting Souls, Deepening Bonds: The True Essence of Bon Odori

Despite its lively appearance, Bon Odori carries profound spiritual meaning.
At its heart lies a spirit of remembrance and gratitude towards ancestors.

Honoring and Thanking Ancestors

The primary purpose of Bon Odori is to welcome, comfort, and gratefully send off the spirits of ancestors, who are believed to return to this world during the Obon period. During Obon, there’s a series of customs, including lighting mukaebi (welcoming fires) to invite ancestral spirits home and okuribi (sending-off fires) to bid them farewell back to the afterlife. Bon Odori is an essential part of this spiritual journey.

Through these dances, people feel a closeness to their departed loved ones and reaffirm their connection with them.
More than just a religious ritual, Bon Odori also serves a deep emotional and psychological function for the living, fostering the awareness that ancestors are still a part of the family and providing a sense of spiritual reassurance.
This emotional aspect is universally understandable, even for those not directly involved in Japanese ancestor worship, highlighting the humanistic side of Bon Odori.

Community Entertainment and Fostering Community Spirit

Throughout its history, Bon Odori has served as entertainment within village societies and played a functional role in strengthening village solidarity.
Even as its religious significance faded, it remained a popular form of entertainment for farmers and common people, promoting interaction among residents and fostering a strong sense of community.

The fact that Bon Odori was not just entertainment but also played a “functional role in strengthening village solidarity” suggests that it was a crucial mechanism for community formation.
Particularly in pre-modern Japanese society, group harmony was highly valued, and events like Bon Odori played an indispensable role in maintaining social cohesion and reinforcing community identity.
The various “local ondo” (folk songs used for dancing) found across Japan also reflect the history and culture of their respective regions, serving as important elements in strengthening unique local identities.

A Past Meeting Place

In the past, Bon Odori also functioned as a rare meeting place for unmarried men and women, where social restrictions were temporarily lifted.
During the Edo period, Bon Odori became intertwined with the energy of sexual liberation, leading to customs like “zakone” (sleeping together), which offered opportunities for temporary physical relationships not only among unmarried individuals but also among married couples.

Such aspects suggest that Bon Odori was not merely a religious ritual or a place of entertainment, but also served as a “cultural safety valve” within a strict social structure, allowing people temporary release from social or sexual suppression.
The Edo Shogunate’s regulation of Bon Odori locations and times, and the Meiji government’s prohibition orders citing “disruption of public morals,” indicate concerns about the collective fervor of Bon Odori and its potential impact on existing social norms.
This historical context reveals that Bon Odori was not just a dance, but a mirror reflecting the complex interplay between social change and popular culture in Japan.

Dancing Through Time: The Origins and History of Bon Odori

The history of Bon Odori is ancient, with its origins traceable to the Buddhist practice of “Odori Nenbutsu” (dancing prayers).

Development from Buddhist “Odori Nenbutsu”

The roots of Bon Odori are believed to lie in “Odori Nenbutsu,” a practice initiated by Priest Kuya in the Heian period and spread throughout Japan by Priest Ippen in the Kamakura period.
This was a religious practice of chanting prayers while dancing, originally expressing the joy of salvation.

This religious dance gradually merged with folk customs and the Buddhist Urabon-e (Obon festival), becoming widely known as “Bon Odori.”
In this process, the focus shifted from pure religiosity to aspects of “performing arts,” and people began to compete with more elaborate costumes, choreography, props, and music.
This is a classic example of how religious rituals can transform into secular entertainment, and how culture adapts and develops through human creativity and social interaction.
The beauty and enjoyment of the dance became a powerful driving force for the continuation of the tradition.

Prosperity from the Muromachi to Edo Periods

During the Muromachi period, Bon Odori, while retaining its Buddhist character, became widely popular among common people.
Its popularity peaked in the Edo period, and its aspect as entertainment grew even stronger.
In Edo (present-day Tokyo), people danced continuously from July, sometimes lasting until October.
During this period, as mentioned earlier, Bon Odori also functioned as a place for social interaction and encounters, becoming deeply embedded in people’s lives.

Meiji Era Regulations and Modern Revival

After the Meiji Restoration, as Japan rapidly pursued Westernization and modernization, Bon Odori faced a significant turning point.
The Meiji government, viewing all-night dancing by men and women, cross-dressing, and other behaviors as “disrupting public morals” and “unsuitable for a modern nation,” issued a ban on Bon Odori in 1874 (Meiji 7).
As a result, in some regions, Bon Odori had declined to the point where its very existence was unknown by the early 20th century.

However, due to its deep roots in the community, Bon Odori never completely disappeared.
It began to be re-promoted as rural entertainment from the late Taisho period and gradually gained momentum.
After World War II, it was re-evaluated as a means of healing people’s minds and bodies and rebuilding local communities, regaining its significance.
This history of prohibition and revival demonstrates how grassroots culture can resiliently survive and adapt in the face of state cultural control.

Registration as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

In modern times, Bon Odori’s cultural value has been re-recognized.
In February 2020, the Council for Cultural Affairs selected 37 pieces from 23 prefectures, including Bon Odori and Nenbutsu Odori, as domestic candidates for registration as “Furyu Odori” (traditional Japanese performing arts characterized by elaborate costumes and decorative elements) on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
This signifies that Bon Odori is not merely a regional festival but is recognized as a culturally valuable heritage worldwide.

A Kaleidoscope of Dances: Regional Diversity

Despite being danced throughout Japan, Bon Odori’s forms and characteristics vary remarkably by region.

Introducing Japan’s Three Great Bon Odori

Japan is home to “Japan’s Three Great Bon Odori,” which are particularly outstanding in their scale, history, and artistry.
These serve as prime examples symbolizing the regional diversity of Bon Odori.

Dance Name	Location	Main Features
Awa Odori	Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture	Over 400 years of history, characterized by free and dynamic “men’s dance” and graceful “women’s dance.” Dancers parade in groups called “ren“, attracting over a million visitors annually for this large-scale festival.
Gujo Odori	Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture	Approximately 400 years of history, the longest-running Bon Odori in Japan (around 32 nights). Based on the spirit of “harmony among all people,” locals and tourists dance together as one.
Nishimonai Bon Odori	Ugo Town, Akita Prefecture	Also known as “Ghost Dance,” characterized by hidden faces with hikosa-zukin hoods or braided hats, and black-based costumes. The graceful movements, imitating the deceased, are highly acclaimed for their artistry.

The fact that “Nishimonai Bon Odori” is called “Ghost Dance” and features dancers with hidden faces (wearing braided hats or black-based costumes), described as “dancing as if they came from the other world,” suggests a more direct and physical connection to ancestors beyond simple ancestor worship.
This can be interpreted as an attempt to blur the boundaries between the living and the dead by imitating spirits, or even becoming spirits themselves, thereby expressing a deep spiritual unity.
This unique expression highlights the spiritual depth of Bon Odori and the richness of regional cultural interpretations.

Regional Differences in Dance, Music, and Costumes

Beyond the Three Great Bon Odori, countless variations of Bon Odori exist across Japan.
Each region has its unique dance steps, melodies known as “ondo“, and traditional costumes.
Small props like fans (uchiwa) and hand towels (tenugui) are incorporated into the dances, and in some regions, dancers wear fox masks or thick stage makeup with elaborate costumes.
These regional differences strongly reflect the local history, folklore, and community identity, demonstrating that Bon Odori is not a singular form but a diverse expression of culture.

Global Spread

Bon Odori is not limited to Japan but has spread widely, primarily among Japanese communities overseas.
It has become a regular summer event, known as “Bon Dance,” particularly in regions with large Japanese populations, such as North America (Hawaii, California, New York, Canada), South America (Brazil), and East and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia).

Overseas Bon Odori events often integrate with local cultures, adapting into new forms.
For example, in Brazil, it has become “Matsuri Dance,” performed to J-pop songs, while in Hawaii, Pokemon Ondo or Zumba tunes and Okinawan songs are sometimes used.
However, this cultural spread isn’t always smooth.
In Malaysia, controversies have arisen regarding Muslim participation, and in major Chinese cities, Japan-inspired summer festival events have been criticized as “cultural invasion” and, in some cases, canceled.
This suggests that cultural dissemination can face complex challenges when intertwined with local political, religious, or nationalistic sentiments.
The global expansion of Bon Odori reflects both the flexibility of cultural exchange and the potential for cultural friction in globalization.

Blending Tradition and Innovation: Modern Bon Odori

Throughout its long history, Bon Odori has consistently adapted and evolved with the times.
Even today, its tradition continues to incorporate new elements while remaining beloved by many.

Modern Participation and Age Demographics

Contemporary Bon Odori remains an event that attracts a wide range of generations, but some venues in urban areas show a tendency for an older participant demographic, with a notable scarcity of young dancers in their 20s and 30s.
This shift in demographics presents a significant challenge for the sustainability of Bon Odori, while also highlighting its strength as a “lifelong activity” that can be continued even in old age.
This generational gap underscores the need to attract new participants to ensure the continuation of the tradition.

New Initiatives: Silent Bon Odori, Anime Song Bon Odori, and More

Against this backdrop, Bon Odori continues to experiment with innovative approaches to adapt to new generations and urban environments.
Beyond traditional music, “modern-style Bon Odori” incorporating pop and anime songs has emerged, with events even produced by artists like DJ KOO.

Particularly noteworthy are formats like “Silent Bon Odori.”
This involves lending participants earphones with portable radios, allowing them to dance to music individually.
This approach addresses noise concerns in urban areas while offering participants a unique immersive experience.
Furthermore, modern technologies like projection mapping and drone shows are being utilized for performances, and there are even trials using AR glasses to experience past festival scenes in virtual space.
These initiatives are not merely modernization; they are strategic cultural preservation efforts that aim to create new appeal and attract a broader audience by integrating the core elements of traditional Bon Odori with contemporary entertainment and technology.
This demonstrates that tradition is not static, but a dynamic process that is constantly reinterpreted and adapted.

Role as a Tourist Resource and Regional Revitalization

Modern Bon Odori is also gaining attention as a crucial means of regional revitalization.
Local governments and the tourism industry are actively leveraging this evolving Bon Odori as an attractive resource to appeal to new tourist segments.
Often, Bon Odori events are combined with local specialty product stalls and cultural introductions, with the expectation of contributing to the local economy.
In this way, Bon Odori serves not only as a traditional event but also as a tourism content that promotes the charm of local communities.

Join the Circle! Bon Odori Experience Guide for International Travelers

If you’re visiting Japan in the summer, we highly recommend attending a local Bon Odori event at least once to experience its charm firsthand.
This unique cultural experience, blending ancestral reverence with communal joy, will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories.

Why You Should See and Experience Bon Odori

Bon Odori offers a precious opportunity to glimpse into the life and traditions of Japanese local communities.
Its greatest appeal is the chance to directly experience the warmth and unity of local people, something you won’t get from simply visiting tourist attractions.
By joining the dance circle, you can truly feel the multifaceted meaning of Bon Odori: connecting with ancestors, deepening family bonds, and strengthening ties with the local community.

What to Wear and Bring

There are no strict rules for what to wear when participating in Bon Odori.
A yukata (light cotton kimono) is a popular choice to fully immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere, but comfortable casual clothes are perfectly fine.
The most important thing is to choose attire that allows you to stay comfortable in the summer heat.
For footwear, if you’re not accustomed to geta (wooden clogs) or zori (sandals), it’s best to wear comfortable shoes like sandals or sneakers that provide stable footing.

For more information about yukata, please click here: The Symbol of Japanese Summer: A Deep Dive into the Yukata

We recommend keeping your belongings to a minimum.
A small bag for valuables (like a pouch or drawstring bag), a towel to wipe sweat, and a drink for hydration (to prevent heatstroke) are essentials.
It’s also a good idea to bring a fan (uchiwa) or folding fan (sensu), as they are sometimes used in the dance.

Etiquette and How to Enjoy the Dance

Even if it’s your first time participating in Bon Odori, knowing a few basic manners will help you enjoy it with confidence.

Item	Tip/Manner	Reason/Notes
Attire	Yukata is recommended, but comfortable casual clothes are fine.	To prioritize comfort and enjoy the atmosphere of a Japanese summer festival.
Footwear	If not used to geta/zori, wear comfortable, stable shoes.	To prevent blisters and falls, and dance safely.
Baggage	Keep to a minimum. Keep valuables on your person, avoid large bags.	To avoid hindering dancing and prevent loss or theft. A fan is essential.
Joining the Circle	Enter from the outside, wait for the end of the song, and give a slight bow.	To maintain harmony with other dancers and join smoothly.
Dancing Style	Avoid freestyle moves; mimic other dancers or the example on the yagura.	Bon Odori is a communal dance, reflecting Japanese cultural values that emphasize harmony and collective movement.
Photography	Step out of the dance circle before taking photos.	To avoid disturbing other dancers and preserving the atmosphere.
Eating/Drinking	Avoid eating or drinking while dancing.	To prevent spills and avoid dirtying the venue or others’ yukata.
Behavior	Avoid shouting loudly, running, or blocking spots.	To show consideration for others and maintain the festival atmosphere.

Bon Odori originally had an aspect as a votive dance offered to deities and Buddhas, so dancers were traditionally expected to perform with dignity and humility.
Therefore, the “no freestyle choreography” rule isn’t just about maintaining order; it strongly reflects Japanese cultural values that emphasize harmony as a member of the community and prioritize collective movement and unity.
This differs from cultures that prioritize individual expression, highlighting an important aspect of Japanese sociality that values cooperation within a group.

Don’t worry if you don’t know the choreography.
You can naturally blend into the circle by mimicking the examples on the yagura or the movements of the surrounding dancers.
Also, the choreography for the same song can vary by venue, so it’s important to be flexible and adapt to the atmosphere.

How to Find Event Information

When visiting Japan in the summer, we recommend researching local Bon Odori event information in advance.
The most reliable ways are checking local tourism association websites or asking at your accommodation (hotel or ryokan).

For example, in Osaka, the “Dotonbori Bon Odori International 2025” is scheduled for August 16th at Dotonbori.
Also, in Kawachinagano City, the “Oyamada Noryo Bon Odori Festival” will be held on July 26th. In Tokyo, the “Zen Ebisu Noryo Bon Odori Festival” is scheduled for July 25th-26th at Ebisu Station West Exit Plaza, and “Roppongi Hills Bon Odori 2025” will take place from August 22nd to 24th at Roppongi Hills.

In recent years, more Bon Odori experience events catering to inbound tourists, including yukata rental and dressing services, have become available.
For instance, in Dotonbori, Osaka, such an experience live event is planned for July 27th, 2025. Utilizing such services can make experiencing Bon Odori even more accessible.

Conclusion: The Enduring Charm of Japan’s Summer Bon Odori

Bon Odori is a unique and living Japanese tradition, beautifully fusing reverence and gratitude for ancestors, community solidarity, and pure entertainment.
With its origins in Buddhist “Odori Nenbutsu,” its prosperity during the Edo period, its regulation and revival in the Meiji era, and its innovative adaptations in modern times, Bon Odori has constantly changed and endured.

The universal appeal of this tradition lies in its ability to satisfy fundamental human desires: seeking connection with the past (ancestors), feeling a sense of belonging to a community, and finding joy and liberation through collective celebration.
Bon Odori has maintained its vitality and been passed down through generations by consistently fulfilling these universal human needs, regardless of changing times and social circumstances.

Bon Odori, which graces Japan’s summer, is more than just a seasonal spectacle.
It reflects the depth of Japanese culture and the spirit of people who adapt to change while preserving their essence.
This summer, we encourage you to join a Bon Odori circle somewhere in Japan, feel its rhythm, and become a part of Japan’s summer story.