Awa Odori or, Awa Dance Festival is a traditional Japanese dance festival in Tokushima city that takes place in August (Obon). It is the largest dance festival in japan. The festival originated in the Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, and today it is celebrated in many parts of Japan. During the festival, people wear traditional Japanese clothing and dance to traditional music.
The dancer performed in large groups, and often the groups will compete against each other. The Awa Dance Festival is a time for people to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage.
Contents
The History of Awa Dance Festival
The Awa Dance Festival is a Japanese Buddhist festival that celebrates the opening of Tokushima Castle. The festival is believed to have begun in the late 1500s when Lord Hachisuka Iemasa wanted to celebrate the completion of the castle. The Awa Odori festival grew out of the tradition of the Bon Odori, which is danced as part of the Bon “Festival of the Dead”, a Japanese Buddhist observance.
In 1957, an Awa Odori festival was held in Koenji, Tokyo, which became the first Awa Odori held outside of Tokushima. The Japan International Exposition was also held in Tokushima that year, which helped to spread the popularity of the festival.
Why is Awa Odori so popular?
Awa Odori is so popular because it is a special and unique form of traditional Japanese dance. It is also very vibrant and colorful, which makes it very visually appealing. The music accompanying the dance is also very catchy and upbeat, making it enjoyable to listen to.
And there are many reasons for the popularity of Awa Odori, but one of the most important factors is its simplicity. The dance is easy, so even those who have never danced before can enjoy it.
Another reason for its popularity is that it is a very social event. People of all ages and backgrounds come together to dance and enjoy the festive atmosphere. A great way to meet new people and make friends.
When is the Awa Odori held in Tokushima Prefecture?
Tokushima Prefecture hosts the Awa Odori dance festival every year from August 12 to 15. The largest and most famous event is held in Tokushima City, but many other events are held throughout the prefecture. This season is called “Obon” in Japan.
Obon is a Japanese Buddhist holiday that honors the spirits of one’s ancestors. It is typically held in mid-August, and the Awa Odori dance is held during this time in Tokushima Prefecture.
What are the characteristics of Awa Odori?
One of the characteristics is to dance while singing “Dancing fool, watching fool: all fools, so lets all dance!”
Another is that many dance groups will participate, each with a different look.
Where is Awa Odori held in Tokushima?
During the Bon Festival in mid-August, many dance festivals are held throughout Japan, but the most exciting is Tokushima’s Awa Odori dance. Tokushima City Awa Odori is held on the south side of JR Tokushima Station. Tokushima City is located in Shikoku, Japan, and can be reached by train or bus from Osaka or Kyoto. It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.