Awa Odori Kaikan
Learn about the dancing fools
The Awa Odori Kaikan is the perfect place to learn about and try one of japan‘s most famous traditional dances. The dance, performed around Obon when the spirits of dead ancestors are honored, goes back about 400 years.
How to Get There
The Awa Odori Kaikan Hall is about a 10-minute walk from JR Tokushima Station.
Quick Facts
Tokushima’s famous dance event Awa Odori Festival, is held every August
The top floor of the museum has a ropeway going up Mt. Bizan
Awa-Odori, all year round
Tokushima’s famous dance event and the subject of national attention, the Awa Odori Festival, is held every summer in August. Even if you are not in Tokushima during August 12-15 when it is held, the Awa Odori Kaikan provides an opportunity to learn about the dance in depth any time of the year.
All about Awa Odori
This facility explains the history of this traditional Bon dance. Every year well over a million spectators flood the streets of Tokushima City, and you’ll be able to see photos and videos of this dynamic spectacle in various exhibits.
Let’s dance!
Regular Awa Odori shows performed by a local group are also held throughout the day, and the male and female dancers are happy to show you how it’s done. An old Tokushima proverb says, “The dancing fool and the watching fool are both fools, so why not dance?” True to the saying, the dancers invite visitors to try out the easy moves of Awa Odori with them at the end of their presentation.
Good views at the top
After learning, and of course, dancing at the Awa Odori Kaikan, head on up to the fifth floor and ride the Bizan Ropeway up to the top of Mt. Bizan for outstanding views of the city day or night.
Plenty for tourists
When you’re done, check out the streets of nearby Shinmachi, an area full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars or simply enjoy a stroll along the lovely riverfront path.
The Awa Odori Kaikan in Tokushima City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture. This venue offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the Awa Odori dance, which has been performed for over 400 years.
The Awa Odori Festival, held every August, is one of Japan’s most famous dance events. During this festival, the streets of Tokushima City come alive with the vibrant performances of dancers and musicians. The festival attracts over a million spectators each year, who gather to witness the energetic and captivating Awa Odori dance.
But even if you can’t make it to Tokushima during the festival, the Awa Odori Kaikan provides a year-round opportunity to learn about and appreciate this traditional dance. Located just a short walk from JR Tokushima Station, the Awa Odori Kaikan is easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
Upon entering the Awa Odori Kaikan, visitors are greeted with exhibits that showcase the history and significance of the Awa Odori dance. The museum displays photographs, videos, and artifacts that depict the evolution of the dance over the centuries. Visitors can learn about the origins of the dance and its cultural importance in Japanese society.
One of the highlights of the Awa Odori Kaikan is the live Awa Odori performances. Throughout the day, local dance groups take the stage to showcase their skills and entertain the audience. These performances offer a unique opportunity to witness the Awa Odori dance up close and personal. The dancers, both male and female, demonstrate the intricate steps and movements of the dance, captivating the audience with their energy and enthusiasm.
At the end of each performance, visitors are invited to join in and try out the dance for themselves. The dancers provide instructions and guidance, making it easy for beginners to participate. This interactive experience allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the tradition and culture of Awa Odori.
After experiencing the dance, visitors can take a trip to the top floor of the Awa Odori Kaikan, where they can ride the Bizan Ropeway up to the summit of Mt. Bizan. This scenic ride offers breathtaking views of Tokushima City and its surroundings. Whether during the day or at night, the panoramic vistas from the top of Mt. Bizan are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Once back on the ground, visitors can explore the nearby streets of Shinmachi. This bustling area is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a wide range of options for dining and shopping. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront path, enjoying the serene beauty of the city’s natural landscape.
In conclusion, the Awa Odori Kaikan in Tokushima City is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and tradition. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the Awa Odori dance, while the live performances offer a unique and interactive experience. Additionally, the stunning views from the top of Mt. Bizan and the vibrant atmosphere of Shinmachi make the Awa Odori Kaikan a perfect destination for tourists. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast or simply curious about Japanese culture, the Awa Odori Kaikan is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Address And Maps Location:
2-20 Shinmachibashi, Tokushima-shi, Tokushima-ken
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