Bon Odori

One of the most popular summer festivals in Japan is the Obon Celebration. During the Obon Festival, people would dance to welcome the return of their ancestors' spirits. Bon Odori is an essential part of Japan and involves various dances performed around a yagura tower. Depending on the region the Obon Festival is celebrated, there are different dances and songs that accompany the celebrations. Dances take inspiration from the daily lives and activities of the prefectures, which result in some unique celebration and dance moves depending on where you go for Obon. Some regions, such as the locals of Shikoku, have various yosakoi dances and moves meant for the festival. Likewise, other parts of the world that celebrate Obon have also developed their own dances for Obon.

Although Obon has been one of Japan's most popular festivals, it is believed the Bon Festival Dance comes from the prayer dance Saint Ippen started in the Kamakura period and later became connected with the Bon Festival. Over time, regions like Tokushima and Kagoshima have gained popularity for their unique Obon Dances, making these regions popular choices to celebrate the Obon Festival.

Feel like dancing the night away? Japan Deluxe Tours can help arrange a private or custom vacation during the Obon Festival so you can join in the fun. Our travel specialists can help you plan the perfect tour, whether it's a private vacation package or an add-on to any of our best selling tours between Kyoto and Tokyo, we are here to help you plan the perfect vacation.