Bon Odori, often called Bon Dance or Bon Festival, is an inherent part of every Japanese summer experience. Originally, Bon Odori was a dance festival held to honor, appreciate, and remember one’s ancestors with a dance of joy. It is also a form of welcoming, as it is believed that the spirits of the ancestors visit their family’s house shrines during the three days that Obon traditionally lasts.

Naturally, this Japanese summer highlight takes place at various places and areas in and around Tokyo, each well worth a visit.

The dance usually takes place near a raised platform called a yagura, which serves as both a stage for musicians and singers and a bandstand. They primarily perform traditional Obon music and minyo folk songs.

The Bon Dance itself consists of straightforward steps, and people of all ages participate by moving in an imaginary circle. Experienced dancers often position themselves towards the center of the circle, while those less skilled tend to stay towards the outer edges, where vibrant food and drink stalls are often located.

Experience the vibrant Tsukiji Hongwanji Bon Odori, one of Tokyo's most lively summer dance festivals. This captivating event takes place within the grounds of the magnificent Tsukiji Hongwanji temple, renowned for its main hall, which was also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

You're also sure to love the captivating performances by taiko drums, scheduled throughout the duration of the Bon festival. And if you find yourself craving delicious food, venture to the renowned Tsukiji Outer Market and indulge in an array of exquisite Japanese street food options.

The lively Sunshine City Bon Dance Festival, taking place from July 31 to August 2, is a cornerstone of the local community's efforts to create a bright, healthy, and energetic town. Around a 6-meter tower, traditional Bon dances will be performed, allowing attendees to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the festival is bringing back the beloved "Children's Corner" and "Food Corner," where kids can enjoy free games like target shooting and Super Ball scooping, and everyone can savor delicious food from eight local shops. This summer, don't miss the chance to experience the warmth and nostalgia of a traditional Japanese summer festival at Sunshine City!

This summer marks the 13th edition of the Nakano Bon Odori Festival, a dynamic celebration that blends traditional folk dances with a festive, modern twist. Originally launched under the theme “Live Songs and Dances of Nakano,” the event has grown into a beloved gathering where participants can dance to live performances of folk Bon dance classics from across Japan. These include local favorites like "Nakano Ondo" and regional staples such as "Tokyo Ondo," "Tanko Bushi," "Dodarebachi," and "Kagoshima Ohara," all performed live by the Nakano Ward Folk Song Federation.

Last year’s event drew an estimated 75,000 attendees and featured special guest appearances by DJ KOO and DJ Celly a.k.a. (O)Bon Jovi, gaining attention from major TV and media outlets. This year, the festival promises to be even more exciting, continuing to fuse Bon Odori with festival vibes to deliver its most powerful edition yet.

Located on the grounds of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, this Bon Dance festival unfolds at Camp Shimoshizu, offering a unique setting for this vibrant celebration. Beyond the main bon dance itself, attendees can look forward to a multitude of highlights, including captivating performances by the music corps and the presence of various outdoor shops that open within the premises.

A sight not to be missed is the breathtaking fireworks display, illuminating the nighttime sky with a spectacular array of colors, starting at 7:50 PM. The Camp Shimoshizu Bon Odori truly encompasses the essence of a Japanese summer, featuring the trifecta of lively dancing, dazzling fireworks, and a delectable assortment of mouthwatering cuisine!

The Minato Mirai Bon Odori festival in Yokohama holds a prominent position among the highly anticipated events in the greater Tokyo region. Its popularity stems from its unique location within Yokohama's Port City, situated directly by the sea and beach. The enchanting Rinko Park provides an atmospheric setting where bon dancers congregate around the yagura, while various stalls offer a delightful selection of snacks and beverages, ensuring a truly immersive Japanese summer experience.

In addition to the captivating Bon dance itself, we encourage you to relish the mesmerizing view of the illuminated Yokohama Bay Bridge in the distance. Many visitors find themselves captivated by the romantic scenery, often making secret wishes as they gaze upon it, adding an extra touch of magic to the event.

Hamacho Park will be hosting the Chuo Ward Oedo Matsuri Bon Odori Taikai. Attendees will have the pleasure of witnessing (and joining in) mesmerizing performances by local participants while also savoring delectable food at the Oedo Fair and exploring unique market corners located within the park. As a long-standing and cherished local festival, this event is projected to draw huge crowds of visitors.

At the prominent Roppongi Hills, a renowned landmark in the area, you'll find a prominent, tower-like elevated stage known as a yagura, serving as the focal point for the festive bon dance. There is no need for any application or registration to participate in this lively event. Simply join in the merriment and dance to your heart's content at your preferred pace!

Within the premises of Roppongi Hills, numerous restaurants and bars will set up food stalls at the bon festival venue, offering a delectable array of refreshments and treats to satiate the appetites and quench the thirst of the enthusiastic dancers.

Since 2003, Hibiya Park has been hosting a giant Bon Odori dance. Over the years, the event has witnessed a growing number of participants, with approximately 34,000 people reveling in the two-day bon festival in 2016. The distinctive feature of Hibiya Park's bon dance is the illuminated fountain situated at its heart, creating a captivating ambiance as attendees dance around it, providing an enchanting and mysterious experience.

As the summer heat dissipates and the cool breeze of autumn starts to blow, we look back at the vibrant Bon Odori festivals that took place in and around Tokyo. These festivals, deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, brought life to the city with their live renditions of local tunes and folk Bon dances.

Each festival, from Hibiya Park Marunouchi Ondo Bon Odori to the Minato Mirai Bon Odori in Yokohama, offered a unique experience, attracting thousands of visitors.

As we bid farewell to summer, we carry with us the joyous memories of these festivals, the rhythmic beats of the music, and the lively dances that brought people of all ages together.