Awa Odori

Japan's largest Bon dance festival with over 400 years of history in Tokushima Prefecture. Known for the chant 'It's a fool who dances and a fool who watches—if both are fools, you might as well dance,' it is held annually during the Obon period in August. Groups called 'ren' dance through the streets to distinctive rhythms.

Japan's largest Bon dance festival, held August 12-15 in Tokushima City. With approximately 400 years of history, it is famous for the motto: 'You're a fool whether you dance or watch, so you might as well dance!' Groups called ren dance through streets to shamisen, taiko, and flute accompaniment, attracting over 1.3 million visitors.

A Bon dance in Tokushima Prefecture, held in August, and one of Japan's three major Bon dances. This folk dance tradition dates to the Edo period and is famous for its saying: 'If both dancers and viewers are fools, then why not dance?' With possible origins dating 1200 years back, its dynamic movements and music captivate performers and audiences alike.

One of Japan's three major Bon dances, held annually in August in Tokushima City. With over 400 years of history, it's famous for the saying 'Both the dancer and watcher are fools, so you might as well dance!' Characterized by distinctive rhythm and vigorous footwork, attracting over 1 million visitors annually.

A modern Bon dance festival held annually in August in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. Founded in 1954, it blends traditional Bon dance with contemporary arrangements. Groups perform energetically with castanets, evolving into an international festival now held throughout Japan and overseas.

A traditional dance performed in Okinawa during the Bon festival season, rooted in Ryukyuan folk beliefs. Performed as a ritual to welcome and send off ancestors, it involves dynamic dancing with drumming. A vibrant performing art symbolizing Okinawa's unique culture and history, with significant international recognition.