Gujo Odori Festival
A 400-year-old community festival that draws thousands every summer
The Gujo Odori Festival is an annual event that takes place in Gujo Hachiman, a small town in Gifu Prefecture, japan. This festival, which has been celebrated for over 400 years, is one of the most famous and popular summer festivals in the country. Every year, thousands of people from all over Japan and even from abroad gather in Gujo to participate in this vibrant and lively event.
The Gujo Odori Festival is held from July to September and features ten different dances. Each dance has its own unique style and rhythm, and participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join in the festivities. The dances take place in various locations throughout the town, including important shrines and temples.
One of the reasons why the Gujo Odori Festival is so special is because it lasts all night long. The dances start at sunset and continue until sunrise the next day. This creates a magical and enchanting atmosphere, as the town is illuminated by lanterns and filled with the sounds of traditional Japanese music. It is truly a unique experience to dance under the starry sky and watch the sunrise with fellow festival-goers.
The Gujo Odori Festival is not only a celebration of dance and music, but also a time for people to come together and make new friends. The festival is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, and participants are encouraged to interact with one another and enjoy each other’s company. It is a time to forget about social status and just have fun.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Bon Odori dance, which is performed during the Obon period in mid-August. The Obon period is a time when Japanese people honor their ancestors and welcome the spirits of the deceased back to the earthly realm. The Bon Odori dance is a way to show respect and gratitude to the ancestors, and it is believed that by dancing, the participants can guide the spirits back to their resting places.
In addition to the Bon Odori dance, there are nine other dances that are performed throughout the festival. Each dance has its own unique history and significance, and participants can learn about the traditions and stories behind each dance. For those who are new to the festival, there are classes and workshops available to learn the dances and participate fully in the festivities.
The Gujo Odori Festival is not just a local event, but also a major tourist attraction. Every year, visitors from all over Japan and even from abroad come to Gujo to experience this unique and traditional festival. The streets of the town are filled with people wearing yukata (traditional Japanese summer kimono) and geta (wooden sandals), creating a colorful and festive atmosphere.
To accommodate the large number of visitors, the town of Gujo prepares special accommodations and facilities during the festival. There are various options available, including traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), guesthouses, and hotels. However, due to the popularity of the festival, it is recommended to make reservations in advance to secure a place to stay.
In addition to the dances, there are also food stalls and souvenir shops set up throughout the town. Festival-goers can try a variety of local delicacies, such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and shaved ice. There are also traditional crafts and souvenirs available for purchase, such as handmade fans, yukata, and wooden geta sandals.
Getting to Gujo for the festival is relatively easy. The town is accessible by public transportation, including trains and buses. From Gifu Station, visitors can take the JR Takayama Line to Mino-Ota Station, which takes about 35 minutes. From there, they can transfer to the local Nagaragawa Railway for Gujo-Hachiman. There are also highway buses available from Nagoya and Gifu, with some buses stopping directly at Gujo-Hachiman Jokamachi Plaza.
Overall, the Gujo Odori Festival is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It is a celebration of Japanese culture, tradition, and community spirit. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a first-time visitor, this festival offers something for everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Japan during the summer months, be sure to include the Gujo Odori Festival in your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.
Address And Maps Location:
520-1 Hachiman-cho Shimadani, Gujo-shi, Gifu-ken
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