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Awa-odori 阿波おどり

Dance festival in Tokushima, Shikoku (12-15 Aug)

Mitaka Awa Odori

Japan’s largest and most famous bon dance runs over 4 nights as part of Obon celebrations, welcoming the souls of the departed back to this world.

It’s full go in the evenings, as Tokushima's city center shuts down and is turned into a large dance stage, with countless local groups in colourful costumes dancing down the streets, accompanied by flutes and drums.

Accommodation is at a premium so get in early.

Awa is the former name for Tokushima Prefecture, while odori means dance.

In neighbouring prefecture Kōchi, the Yosakoi Festival (9-12 Aug) immediately precedes Tokushima’s Awa-odori, meaning a week of continuous festival fun on Shikoku is on the cards.

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Awa-odori

Summer: June, July & Aug 夏

Text © Craig McLachlan

Image by nakashi