Street Performances at Koenji Awa Odori Festival and Associated Events
Experience the pulsing energy of Japan during summer as you immerse yourself in the heart of the festive season! Japan's festival season may last all year, but July to September truly shines, and attending a Japanese dance festival alone is an unforgettable reason to visit this captivating country. Among the most famous summer festivals is the Awa Odori, a dance festival with over 400 years of history.
Originating from Tokushima in the Shikoku region, Awa Odori has evolved into a nationwide celebration. While Tokushima's Awa Odori remains the biggest, Tokyo's own vibrant take on the festival—the Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori—is a must-see during the last weekend of August.
Let's dive into the world of Awa Odori:
Discovering Awa Odori
Awa Odori, a traditional Japanese dance festival, takes place during summer. The lively festival began in Tokushima but now dance processions can be witnessed nationwide. The heart of the original Tokushima Awa Odori lies between August 12 and 15 with over ten thousand participants attracting millions of visitors.
The Dances of Awa Odori
Awa Odori features three main types of dance: men's, women's, and women dancing men's styles. In the men's dance, participants move low to the ground and lean forward while women perform on raised geta sandals in their iconic braided hats, often chanting "Yatto sa yatto yatto," translating to "How are you? I am fine." All dancers wear traditional Japanese clothing and accessories, with women donning yukatas and men wearing happis.
Tokyo's Koenji Awa Odori
The Tokyo Koenji Awa Odori was first held in 1957 to revitalize the local shopping streets in the area. Over time, it has grown into one of Tokyo's major summer events. Approximately 10,000 dancers attend the festival's procession throughout the Koenji district, with over a million visitors enjoying the two-day event.
The Tokyo Awa Odori Experience, Koenji
Can't make it to the festival during summer? Don't worry! You can still immerse yourself in Awa Odori culture. year-round events, workshops, and live performances are organized in Koenji. The Koenji Awa Odori Tour allows you to explore the local area, learn about its history, and even take part in the dance performances yourself!
Embark on an unforgettable cultural journey during Tokyo's Koenji Awa Odori Festival. Join in the rhythmic dance processions, indulge in delicious street food, and experience the joyous community spirit that this vibrant celebration embodies.
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- The lively Awa Odori, a traditional Japanese dance festival with over 400 years of history, takes place during summer and has evolved into a nationwide celebration, with Tokyo's Koenji Awa Odori being a must-see during the last weekend of August.
- In addition to the annual festival, year-round events, workshops, and live performances are organized in Koenji, offering an opportunity to immerse oneself in Awa Odori culture, especially through the Koenji Awa Odori Tour.
- Awa Odori features three main types of dance: men's, women's, and women dancing men's styles, with all dancers wearing traditional Japanese clothing and accessories.
- Tokyo's Koenji Awa Odori was first held in 1957 to revitalize the local shopping streets, and since then it has grown into one of Tokyo's major summer events, attracting over a million visitors with approximately 10,000 dancers attending the festival’s procession throughout the Koenji district.
