”Bon Odori”, the Joy of Japanese Folk Dance in Summer

What is Obon?

Obon is a traditional Buddhist event celebrated in Japan, dedicated to honoring and commemorating ancestors. It is an annual observance held from July 13th to 15th (though in some regions, it falls on August 13th to 15th), although the dates may vary depending on the locality and sect.

The origins of Obon stem from Buddhist teachings, which suggest that after death, the spirits of the deceased enter the afterlife. Once a year, during the Obon period, it is believed that the spirits of ancestors return to visit their living relatives. To welcome and comfort the ancestral spirits, various rituals and events are conducted during this time.

What is Bon Odori?

In the Bon period, most working people have a week-long holiday, during which the Bon Dance Festival takes place in various regions. Many people join these festivals to enjoy the traditional dance.

Bondance originated from the Buddhist custom of honoring departed souls, evolving into a joyful expression of appreciation for ancestors. The dance is accompanied by rhythmic beats and melodies from traditional instruments, creating a magical atmosphere.

Each region in Japan has its own unique variations of the dance, but Bon Odori serves as a unifying force that brings the nation together in joy and cultural heritage.
Tourists and visitors are encouraged to join in the dance, fostering connections and breaking cultural barriers. Ultimately, Bon Odori embodies the essence of Japanese culture, promoting unity, joy, and a sense of belonging in the celebration of ancestral remembrance and the continuity of life.

Bon 0dori Events in Foreign countries

There are some some Bonodori event that take place in foreign countries as follows.

・Malaysia
　https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1Sp9ll77VE

・Philippines
　https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5CCtbd3rK8

・Argentina
　https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M4CyVOBBHI

As you can see on the youtube video, people other than Japanese can enjoy it so much.

The concept  of Bon dance that I like

There is a famous phrase sung in the famous Bon dance  in Tokushima

“Odoru ahou ni miru ahou onaji ahou nara odorana son son”.

It means that “The dancers are fools. The watchers are fools. Both are fools alike so, Why not dance?”
It is just the concept of Bondance.Bon odori is so easy dance that everybody can join and dance.
You can master iteasily  after you dance one time by imitating others dance.

So why don’ t  you join and enjoy Bonodori and dance!