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Japanese ondō: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy.

We’ve gathered classic and must-hear picks of traditional Bon-odori songs recommended by our studio staff—fun for everyone from adults to kids.

It’s a playlist sure to delight festival-loving Japanese listeners!

Japanese Ondo: Seasonal traditions everyone can enjoy (11–20)

Tanuki Lord's Ondo

Tanuki Lord's Bon Dance: Junpeke Dance Paralyrhythm
Tanuki Lord's Ondo

“Tanuki no Tonosama Ondo” is a playful ondo that portrays the cheerful world of tanuki.

The song weaves in humorous scenes, inviting dancers to move as if enjoying a story.

Its tempo is calm yet easy to follow, making it perfect for Bon Odori.

The vocals are gentle, creating a soothing atmosphere that children can sing along to with ease.

Traditional Japanese instruments envelop the piece, giving it a distinctly Japanese sensibility.

The choreography—like handclaps and the tanuki’s tummy-patting—makes movements easy to express, welcoming participants of all ages.

This song, which lets you experience the tanuki’s delightful tale through music and dance, will color a memorable moment of summer.

Relaxed Bon Dance

Mattari Ondo from Ojarumaru
Relaxed Bon Dance

This is a bon-odori song with a gentle atmosphere that evokes the world of the anime Ojarumaru.

It depicts Japan’s seasonal landscapes and can help children become familiar with nature and the changing seasons.

The rhythm is calm, the dance movements are relaxed, and participants can join in with ease.

The warmth of the vocals and the soft melody combine to make summer festival time more enjoyable.

Even children who aren’t fond of vigorous movement can enjoy it comfortably, and its appeal lies in the fact that the whole family can form a circle and dance together.

It’s easy for fans of the anime to embrace as well, and it can be described as a work that gently accompanies everyday life.

Anpanman Ondo

Anpanman Ondo: Let’s dance together with Anpanman!!
Anpanman Ondo

Let’s all dance together! Here are some ideas for the “Anpanman Ondo.” Let’s dance the “Anpanman Ondo” with the beloved characters from “Go! Anpanman,” popular in the anime, movies, and picture books! The song has four verses, but the choreography stays the same, so it should be easy for children to learn, right? Moving their bodies to the rhythm can not only develop motor skills and a sense of rhythm, but also help nurture emotional expression—like “I did it!” and “I can dance for fun!”—and boost their self-esteem.

Ultraman Ondo

It’s a fun number that mixes the world of tokusatsu heroes with the rhythm of bon odori.

The presence of Ultraman—familiar to everyone—overlaps with the music and captures children’s hearts.

Adding choreography to the “signature pose” lines in the lyrics makes it easy to enjoy even for first-time festival-goers.

The drums and percussion in the background evoke the feeling of summer and bring liveliness to the whole track.

The vocals are dynamic, with clear shifts between sections that make it thoroughly engaging to listen to.

It’s highly recommended not only for kids who love Ultraman, but also for anyone in the mood to soak up a festive atmosphere.

Ophroski's Chappong Bushi

The charming lyrics are the highlight! Here are some ideas for “Ofurosuki no Chappombushi.” It’s a humorous song performed by Ofuroski, a character from the TV show “Miitsuketa!” “Ofurosuki no Chappombushi” has a rhythm and tempo that are perfect for Bon Odori.

The lyrics focus on bath time while weaving in seasonal elements, so it’s likely to become a memorable song for children even after dancing at summer festival Bon Odori.

Be sure to give it a try!

Zunpa Ondo

Zunpa Ondo rec Bon Dance Kendō Satowa Association Summer Festival Bon Odori Tournament 23.07.16
Zunpa Ondo

It’s a lively, cheerful festival song that spreads a bright, bustling atmosphere.

Packed with elements kids can connect with right away—like twirling their bodies and moving their arms and legs briskly—it features a light, upbeat tempo.

Drums and flutes boost the rhythm, and the continual development makes you smile as you move along.

You’ll also enjoy a sing-along-friendly melody that naturally makes you want to hum while matching the dance moves.

The changing sections keep things interesting, so it never gets dull to listen to.

It’s a perfect highlight for summer events or Bon Odori at preschools, bringing the whole venue together as one.

This energetic track, great for dancing with children, is also ideal for creating lasting summer memories.

Japanese Ondo: Seasonal traditions everyone can enjoy (21–30)

Doraemon Ondo

Lecture on how to dance Bon Odori! The original Doraemon!! 'Doraemon Ondo'
Doraemon Ondo

Let’s enjoy Bon Odori! Here are some ideas for the Doraemon Ondo.

From kids to adults, try dancing the Doraemon Ondo together with Doraemon, beloved from anime and films.

Doraemon’s signature hand shape is also a key point in the choreography! The video even includes choreography for those who want to participate while seated, so be sure to check it out.

The moves are easy to dance in a yukata, too! Make summer memories with the Doraemon Ondo!