Awa Odori Festival阿波踊り
The Awa Odori Festival, an annual celebration occurring from August 12th to 15th as part of the Obon festival, is the most famous and widely recognized event in Tokushima and across the nation. "Awa" is the historical name for Tokushima Prefecture during the feudal era, and "odori" is a Japanese word for "dance". With roots dating back over 400 years, the Awa Odori dance has become a staple of the region and is performed in various areas throughout Japan. However, the festival in Tokushima City remains the largest Awa Odori event in the country, attracting over a million visitors.
Participation in the festival as a dancer is open to everyone, simply by registering as part of a "ren," a dance group, and receiving instruction from a dance troupe. Dancers can be seen in the traditional uniforms of happi or yukata, which are inspired by local heritage. Female dancers also wear the torioigasa, a hat that partially covers their face. The term "torioigasa" literally means "bird scaring hat," and it gained popularity in the middle of the Taisho Period (1912-1926).
The Awa Odori Festival is a multi-stage event, with celebrations and performances taking place on the streets throughout the city.
Venue
- Tokushima Staition-nishi (central area of the city)
Address
1 Terashimahonchonishi, Tokushima
Getting There
- 4 minutes walk from Tokushima Station (徳島駅)
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