The Bon Odori is a summer tradition in Japan. This dance takes many different forms across the country, reflecting the local climate and character. The Nishimonai Bon Odori, which hails from the town of Ugo in Akita Prefecture, is known for being particularly elegant. Dancers wear beautiful red or blue kimonos along with distinctive black hoods and straw hats. The musical accompaniment is majestic but retains a sense of humor. In 2022, it was one of the “Furyu Dances” added to UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. We follow the local preservation society as they prepare for the latest performance of this 700-year-old dance.

Presented by: The Japan Foundation (JF) (https://www.jpf.go.jp/e/)

＜Program Credits＞
Performers: Nishimonai Bon Odori Preservation Society
Additional Materials: NATIONAL DIET LIBRARY’S DIGITAL LIBRARY COLLECTIONS
Supervision: HYOKI Satoru
Video Image Production: NHK ENTERPRISES, INC.
Video Image Producer: HAMANO Takahiro, KAWAI Akiko
Video Image Director and Editor: YASUMOTO Koji

＜Subtitling Credits＞
English Translation: Paul BARNDT
French Translation: Simul International, Inc.
Indonesian Translation: Simul International, Inc.
Thai Translation: Simul International, Inc.

© The Japan Foundation (JF) All Rights Reserved

End date of distribution: 16/1/2035