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[Let's Enjoy Japanese Festival Songs!] Songs about festivals. Famous songs related to festivals.

When you think of summer festivals, there are so many things to enjoy—fireworks, food stalls, and more.

And at Japanese festivals, mikoshi (portable shrines) and bon odori (bon dances) are essential, too.

In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of songs related to these festivals! When you hear “festival-themed songs,” you might think of a lot of enka, but we’ve picked tracks across a wide range of genres—J-pop, rock, idol music, and more—that kids can get excited about, with modern touches woven in as well.

These songs are perfect companions for festivals, and there are also tracks that let you soak up the festival mood or savor the afterglow.

Be sure to check out some festival tunes that match your taste!

Let's enjoy Japanese festival songs! Songs about festivals. Famous festival-related songs (31–40)

H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer When You Were There~ZONE

ZONE “H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer You Were There~” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer You Were There~ ZONE

This song is as vivid as a grand firework blazing across the night sky, yet its melody carries a certain fleeting poignancy that leaves a strong impression.

It conjures images of summer romances gone by, shrine grounds, and sunsets—many listeners may feel a tightness in their chest as they listen.

This work is a single released by the girls’ band ZONE in July 2003, marking their milestone tenth major release.

It was issued at the time as a strictly limited edition of 100,000 copies, debuted at No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, and received Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

It’s the perfect track for savoring the lingering afterglow of a summer festival or reflecting on tender memories.

party peopleKetsumeishi

When you hear it’s a party song by Ketsumeishi, you know you’re guaranteed to get hyped! This track, “Party People,” released digitally in 2021, is a high-energy number that amps up the festival and party vibes.

The music video features Eiko Kano, and his wild performance—doing calligraphy right after skydiving—also became a hot topic.

It’s the ultimate festival anthem that makes your body move, makes you want to clap, and lifts you out of any slump.

Ondo Dango Three Brothers

Bon Odori version! Here’s an idea for “Ondo Dango 3 Kyodai.” It’s an arranged version of “Dango 3 Kyodai,” which has been loved by children since its 1999 release.

Keeping the same catchy lyrics and rhythm that stick in your head after just one listen, this version incorporates call-and-response shouts and taiko drums to create a Bon Odori arrangement! With its irresistibly singable, fun atmosphere, children will naturally join the circle and enjoy dancing.

It could also be fun to design choreography inspired by dango.

Ghost Fireworks Ondo

[Professional Dancers Perform!] Ghost Fireworks Bon Dance
Ghost Fireworks Ondo

“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
Genki Ondo

It’s a bright, lively Bon Odori song.

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

The choreography is easy to follow and packed with the fun of dancing together.

The energetic tempo and friendly vocals will lift the festival mood even more.

Its clear rhythm and catchy melody stick in your head, and when you move to the music, smiles spread.

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

[Let’s Enjoy Japanese Festival Songs!] Songs about festivals. Famous festival-related tracks (41–50)

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 depicts the cheerful world of tanuki.

The song is filled with humorous scenes, letting you dance as if enjoying a story.

Its tempo is calm yet easy to catch the rhythm, making it perfect for Bon Odori.

The vocals are gentle, creating an atmosphere where children can sing along with ease.

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

The choreography—like handclaps and tanuki patting their bellies—makes movements easy to express and accessible to all ages.

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

Anpanman Ondo

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

Let’s all dance! Here are some ideas for the “Anpanman Ondo.” Try dancing the “Anpanman Ondo” together with the beloved characters from “Go, Anpanman!” who are popular in anime, movies, and picture books.

The song has four verses, but the choreography is the same, so it should be easy for children to remember.

It’s a festival song that will get kids excited.