The Awa Odori Dance Festival in Tokushima: A Beginner’s Guide
Awa Odori, believed to have a history of over 400 years, is held annually in Tokushima City from August 12 to 15. During these four days, not only people from Japan but also many tourists from abroad gather to experience the festival. The number of dancers reaches 100,000, and the total number of participants, including spectators, is approximately 1.3 million. Travelers can also join in the dancing as participants. This page provides details on the festival, how to join, how to book hotels during this period, and how to access Tokushima from major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.
The Origin of Awa Odori
Awa Odori has been celebrated for over 400 years, but its exact origin remains unclear. There are three main theories:
- Bon Dance Theory
This theory suggests that Awa Odori originated from the Bon Dance, which is performed to welcome and send off the spirits of ancestors. - Castle Construction Theory
In 1587, during the construction of Tokushima Castle by Hachisuka Iemasa, the people of the town are said to have danced to celebrate the completion of the castle, marking the start of Awa Odori. - Furyu Dance Theory
The “Kumi Odori” (group dance) style that is characteristic of Awa Odori is believed to have been influenced by “Furyu,” which is linked to the origins of Noh performance.
In any case, it is certain that the festival began in the 16th century. One of the reasons why Awa Odori is so popular is that not only can visitors watch the event, but they can also participate as dancers.
What is a “Ren” in Awa Odori?
Awa Odori is not a solo dance; it is performed in groups called “Ren.” There are over 1,000 Ren groups, including famous traditional Ren, corporate and school groups, as well as hobby practice circles. Tourists can join a temporary group called “Niwaka Ren,” which refers to a group formed temporarily for the festival.
Awa Odori Dance Styles and Costumes
The dance styles and costumes for Awa Odori differ between men and women. Groups of dancers in a “Ren” typically wear matching outfits and perform the same dance.
Men’s Dance: Men typically perform a dynamic and powerful dance. There are styles such as the “Haprobe Dance” (wearing a short jacket) and the “Yukata Dance” (wearing a yukata), and accessories like fans or hand towels may be used. The dance is often bold and sometimes comical, making the men’s style energetic and lively. Although it is called “Men’s Dance,” women can also participate.
Women’s Dance: The women’s dance emphasizes grace and subtle elegance. Women wear traditional yukata and geta (wooden sandals) and carefully dance to ensure their yukata does not fall apart. They wear a traditional hat called a “Tori Oigasa,” which was originally used by women to protect their faces from the sun during farming. Wearing this hat hides their faces but highlights the graceful lines of their necks.
What Does “Erai Koccha” Mean in Awa Odori?
“Erai Koccha” is a local dialect expression meaning “Something big has happened!” It is a part of the lively and humorous chanting and dancing during the festival.
How Can Tourists Participate in Awa Odori?
The music and dance of Awa Odori are so captivating that anyone present feels the urge to dance. Tourists can join a “Niwaka Ren” (temporary group), where they will be taught simple dance moves by experienced members of famous Ren groups. Sometimes, costumes like the “Hapi” (festival jacket) may be provided for the participants.
Where to Stay for Awa Odori
There are many simple business hotels near JR Tokushima Station, which are convenient for festival-goers, as the festival venues are within walking distance. If you’re only interested in enjoying the Awa Odori and plan to return to your hotel just to sleep, staying near the station is the most convenient. However, hotels in this area fill up quickly during the festival, so it is advisable to make reservations as early as possible.
Hotel Recommendations Near Tokushima Station:
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokushima Ekimae
Address: 3-3 Terashimahonmachi Higashi, Tokushima, 770-0832
Website: Daiwa Roynet Hotel - JR Hotel Clement Tokushima
Address: 1-61 Terashimahonmachi Nishi, Tokushima, 770-0831
Website: JR Hotel Clement
If you are looking to enjoy both Awa Odori and the region’s nature or hot springs, staying in hotels or inns around Anan, Hiwasa, or Shishikui (about 30 minutes by train from the festival site) is also a great option. These places are easier to book during the festival period.
How to Access Tokushima from Tokyo:
- By Plane:
Flight time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Direct flights are available from Tokyo (Haneda Airport) to Tokushima (Tokushima Awa Odori Airport). It takes about 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Tokushima city center. - By Train:
Travel time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
Route: Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station (about 2.5 hours). Then, transfer to the limited express “Uzushio” for about 1.5 hours to reach Tokushima Station. - By Bus:
Travel time: Approximately 9-10 hours
There is a highway bus available from Tokyo to Tokushima, which is a more affordable option but takes longer.
How to Access Tokushima from Osaka:
- By Plane:
Flight time: Approximately 1 hour
Direct flights are available from Osaka (Itami Airport) to Tokushima (Tokushima Awa Odori Airport). It takes about 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Tokushima city center. - By Train:
Travel time: Approximately 2 hours
Route: Take the Shinkansen from Osaka Station to Shin-Osaka Station (about 30 minutes), then transfer to the limited express “Uzushio” to reach Tokushima Station in about 1.5 hours. - By Bus:
Travel time: Approximately 4 hours
There are highway buses available from Osaka to Tokushima.
Access to the Awa Odori Venue from Tokushima Station:
- Walking:
Travel time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Tokushima Station is within walking distance to the main Awa Odori venues, like the Awa Odori Hall and various dancing areas. - Bus:
Travel time: Approximately 5-10 minutes
Shuttle buses operate from Tokushima Station to the festival venues.
Taxi:
Travel time: Approximately 5 minutes
Taking a taxi is convenient if you have luggage or wish to avoid the heat.
