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!
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Japanese Ondo: A seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy (31–40)
National Sake-Drinking Festival Song of Japanbarracuda
The lyrics, which use any excuse to drink, are shocking.
Released in 1976, this track is notable for the way it lifts your spirits just by listening.
The song’s prototype comes from “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” the musical number in Disney’s film Cinderella.
Arale-chan OndoMami Koyama
Although it was released in 1981, it’s still a staple that’s often played at summer Bon Odori festivals.
In fact, this song is more famous nationwide than the anime’s theme song, and it’s frequently used outside of Bon Odori as well—often as a segment tune or ending theme on radio programs.
Yellow Submarine OndoAkiko Kanazawa
A song that covers Yellow Submarine in Japanese with extensive rearrangements.
The singer, Ms.
Kanazawa, is a folk singer, so her vocal ability is outstanding.
Since it’s originally a Beatles song, I imagine opinions will be divided, but I have to take my hat off to the idea of turning a huge Western hit into an ondo dance tune.
Hanagasa OndoAkiko Kanazawa
This is a popular ondō song often used in the Japanese festival “Hanagasa Matsuri,” where people dance through the streets to the Hanagasa Ondō.
The festival is held mainly in the Tohoku region.
Among them, the “Yamagata Hanagasa Festival,” held annually in August in Yamagata City, is especially famous.
Ichiban OndoET-KING
It’s a reggae tune based on the traditional ondo style.
The relaxed, laid-back rhythm pairs well with the classic ondo, creating a nice new form.
On YouTube, you can find original choreography for this track.
Japanese Ondo: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy (41–50)
Schrödinger Ondo (Schrödinger Dance Song)
A festival dance themed around quantum mechanics.
The lyrics are sprinkled with quantum mechanics terminology, and the choreography inspired by it is well-known.
People who love physics must find it irresistible.
And it’s not limited to this—apparently there are many different festival dances in the world of physics.
It’s a festival dance with surprising depth.
Mickey Ondo (Mickey Bon Dance Song)
This is a lively bon dance featuring Disney characters that’s loved as a summertime staple.
Its charming blend of Japanese and Western musical styles and unique choreography are especially appealing.
First performed in 2014, it has been a beloved symbol of summer every year since.
It’s now an essential part of Disneyland’s summer events, further elevating the park’s festive atmosphere.
Dancing to this piece with family and friends spreads smiles all around.
Even first-timers can pick it up easily, so performing it at festivals or events is sure to create fun memories together.
It’s also recommended to learn the choreography online and then try dancing it for real.