One of the crucial essential holidays in Japan, Obon begins on August 13 and ends on the fifteenth this yr, though the dates could differ relying on the area. Occasions in Tokyo start within the weeks earlier than and after these dates. Many are coming again after an prolonged hiatus because of Covid-19, so it is an opportunity to proceed cherished summer season traditions. This is our checklist of the highest Obon occasions within the Japanese capital this summer season.
Ranging from 1pm on July 30, the Okinawan Bon Odori graces the streets of Shinjuku, across the east and west exits of the principle station, for in the future solely. The occasion options performances by many Eisa (Okinawan folks dance) teams based mostly in Tokyo. Eisa normally includes a round dance accompanied by drumming and the enjoying of sanshin, an Okinawan musical instrument just like the shamisen. For these unable to observe Eisa in Okinawa, they’ll get pleasure from a style of Okinawan Obon festivities within the coronary heart of Tokyo.
when: July 30 | Extra Data
This photograph is from 2018.
The seventy fifth annual Tsukiji Hongwanji Bon Odori Pageant is about to be held for the primary time in three years, however on a a lot smaller scale than earlier years. The favored dance competitors is simply permitting 2,700 guests to enter every day. Members are additionally restricted to these residing in Tsukiji and close to the venue. In earlier years, guests might get pleasure from meals stalls run by native eating places serving Tsukiji seafood whereas watching the celebrations.
when: Aug 3-6 | Extra data
Sunshine Metropolis’s forty third Bon Odori competition includes a six-meter tall yagura, or picket scaffold on the heart of the festivities. Guests can get pleasure from colourful decorations and lanterns whereas following together with the strikes of well-liked dances resembling Tokyo Ondo, Otsuka Monogatari Ondo and extra. On the primary day a pupil band from an area main college may also carry out.
when: Aug 6-7 | Extra data
This video is from 2019.
With a historical past that dates again greater than 50 years, the Nakameguro Summer season Pageant is because of return this yr with two performances: Awa Odori on day one and Yosakoi on day two. Awa Odori is among the most well-known dances throughout Obon season and originates from Tokushima. It options teams of choreographed dancers and musicians who play the shamisen, taiko drums and the shinobue flute. Yosakoi is a dynamic and energetic model of group dance that options colourful costumes and musicians as nicely. The competition additionally options meals stalls and Bon Odori, a conventional Obon dance.
when: Aug 6-7 | Extra Data
The tenth annual Nakano Bon Odori competition takes place proper exterior Nakano Station. It goals to draw round 3,000 yukata-clad individuals to carry out Tokyo Ondo and set a brand new Guinness World File for essentially the most Bon Odori dancers performing on the identical time on August 6 from 4pm to 7pm. They will have workshops at Nakane Zero on July 9 and 24 at 7:30pm to show individuals the right way to do the dance. They will additionally educate the steps on the day of the occasion between 12pm and 3pm. With a view to take part within the doubtlessly record-setting dance session, guests have to register prematurely. On August 7, from 4pm to 9pm, superstar friends will play J-pop tunes and educate up to date Bon Odori choreography.
when: Aug 6-7 | Extra Data
One of the crucial well-liked Bon Odori festivals, the Koenji Awa Odori takes place round Koenji station in late August. The competition started in 1957 to revitalize the native retailers, however has grown to incorporate over 10,000 dancers and a million spectators. Dancers positioned in eight totally different areas will begin performing on the identical time accompanied by flutes, the shamisen, chimes and taiko drums. They will transfer by city within the form of the quantity eight, an auspicious quantity in Japanese tradition.
The competition can get crowded because of its reputation. To observe the identical dances from a assured good seat, you may go to Za Koenji Theater and watch a stage Awa Odori efficiency the identical weekend.
when: Aug 27-28 | Extra Data
This video is from 2019.
7. Chuo-Ku Oedo Bon Odori
The thirty second Chuo-ku Oedo Bon Odori Event takes place at Hamacho Park. Along with watching locals carry out, guests can get pleasure from meals on the Oedo Honest and specialty market corners of the park. As with many Tokyo Obon celebrations, the occasion is returning for the primary time in three years. It is a well-established native competition that’s anticipated to draw round 40,000 guests.
when: Aug 26-27 | Extra Data
Observe: This text was written previous to the brand new wave of Covid-19 circumstances. Please examine every competition in case some are canceled because of the rise in circumstances.