The Tokyo Koenji Awa-Odori, with a history of more than 60 years, is held on Saturday and Sunday at the end of August. Now it is such a major summer event in Tokyo that about 10,000 dancers and almost 1,000,000 spectators visit over the 2 days.

What is The Awa-Odori?

The Awa-Odori originated in Awa Province (Now Tokushima Prefecture). A group of dancers walks and dances to the accompaniment of Shamisen (a type of Japanese traditional guitar), drums and flute. The dancers are called ‘Ren’. The number of ‘Ren’s participating in the Tokyo Koenji Awa-Odori are over 100.

The Women’s dance

The women’s dance is said to be graceful and elegant. The beautiful dance and vivid costumes attract many spectators. The dancers wear a unique, eye catching headgear called Torioi-gasa.

The Men’s dance

The men’s dance is more powerful and dynamic, but sometimes humorous to amuse the spectators. While it is called the men’s dance, women often join in.

Ohayashi

Along with the dance the ohayashi (musical accompaniment) is the other big part of the Awa-Odori. The musical accompaniment by shamisen and flute and drums is a traditional Japanese entertainment.

Food

You can try many types of foods as there are a lot of stalls and restaurants around the area the dance is performed.