Japanese ondō: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy.

Kashii-san and dance

Reiwa 6 (2024) Kashii-san-ya Dance

This is a passionate bon-odori song that has been lovingly passed down in Izumisano City, Osaka Prefecture.

To the powerful rhythm of drums resounding from atop the yagura, dancers repeat short phrases and dance through the night.

It is said to have originally been performed to lift the spirits of soldiers wounded in the Battle of Kashii during the Summer Siege of Osaka.

You can feel in the music the festival’s fervor that connects generations and a deep love for one’s hometown.

It is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Izumisano City.

Kaizuka San'ya Ondo

Kaizuka San'ya Ondo

This dance song, passed down in the Senshu region since ancient times, is a traditional performing art that truly embodies the spirit of the community.

Its origins are said to date back to 1583, when people danced for three days and nights to celebrate the birth of a new stronghold.

With short verses and lively chants layered one upon another, this work lifts the listener’s heart.

Don’t you feel that each sung phrase carries the joy of our forebears and their hopes for the future? Designated an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of the city in February 1998, it has been carefully preserved as a regional treasure to this day.

Just imagining people dancing in a circle while the drums resound with the distinctive chong-gake rhythm is enough to make one’s heart swell.

Kaikake Ondo

Reiwa 5 Kaikake Summer Evening Festival Kaikake Ondo

This is a Bon Odori chant that has been lovingly passed down in the Kaigake area of the Senshu region in Osaka.

Although it once died out after the war, it was brilliantly revived in 1990 through the efforts of local volunteers.

The 7-7-7-5 meter, punctuated by long interludes of flute and drum, seems to synchronize with the circle of dancers and their breathing.

Don’t you feel that the warm resonance of the music carries the spirit of those determined to preserve their hometown’s traditions? In March 2008, it was designated an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Hannan City.

During the Kaigake Summer Evening Festival, you can still see local residents dancing together in a circle.

Drifters' Vibanon OndoThe Drifters

Drifters' Vibanon Ondo

The members of The Drifters really like ondo (traditional Japanese dance songs).

Cheerful ondo numbers suit them perfectly.

The phrase “Babanba Banbanban~” is so famous that there’s hardly anyone who doesn’t know it.

It’s fun how they sing while adding various call-and-response interjections.

Let's dance, Ondo!

Let's dance, Ondo!

This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.

The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.

The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.

With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.

The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.

A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.

Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.

Ghost Fireworks Ondo

[Professional Dancers Perform!] Ghost Fireworks Bon Dance

“Ghost Fireworks Ondo” captures a fun, summery vibe.

Its unique world where friendly ghosts appear blends with lively images of fireworks, unfolding in ways that spark children’s imaginations.

The music layers sounds like drums and flutes, clearly evoking the atmosphere of a Bon dance.

The singing is approachable, with vivid expression that seems to breathe life into the ghosts.

The dance choreography is easy to pick up, making it useful for preschools and local summer events.

Combining playfulness with a seasonal feel, this piece is the perfect ondo for summer festivals.

Genki Ondo

Genki Ondo / Okaasan to Issho / Hand Play

It’s a bright and lively Bon Odori song.

Set to a poppy rhythm, it features moves like the “hungry tummy growl” pose and big-voice gestures that naturally make kids want to move.

The choreography is easy to follow and full of the joy of dancing together.

Its energetic tempo and friendly vocals will further boost the festive mood.

The clear rhythm and catchy melody stick in your head, and moving freely to the music brings out smiles.

Popular as a versatile number for kindergartens and local summer festivals, it’s perfect for summer events where everyone can dance, sing, and feel energized.