The Bon Odori Dance Festival -
Letter from Tokyo
Roppongi is known as the wealthy side of town, where expatriates hang out in Tokyo. Roppongi Hills is a towering building one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo. Bustling near fashion iconic stores like Vuitton and Hugo Boss, its strange to see the streets filled with women in their Yukata [summer Kimono's] [the traditional national dress of Japan], and women walking around in their Geta Sandals. Don't ask me how they walk in those painfully elegant shoes. Mine have become a souvenir, a conversation piece for my friends and family in South Africa.
 |
| Bon Odori Dance |
 |
| GETA Sandals |
The traffic is in gridlock tonight because the streets are blocked for this yearly festival and dance. I am at the Roppongi Obon Dori Dance Festival. Its the end of Obon. Some know this as The Festival of Souls. Obon, is a Buddhist celebration, celebrated, I was surprised to discover, in many parts of the world where there are Japanese communities.
Some Japanese believe that during this period the souls of their ancestors return to their homes on earth. This is the time when people can guide and help their ancestors' spirits to find peace.
During this festival period of 3 days, families hang lanterns outside their houses, many decorated with their family names. These are placed at the graves to welcome and guide the souls home. In many neighbourhoods a variety of food is offered to the souls of ancestors.
 |
| Yagura Stage |
At the end of grave cleaning and welcoming the souls of their ancestors home, the Japanese let their hair down!
During this period people gather for outdoor dances known as Bon dance or, bon odori a (folk dance) widely practiced on Obon nights.
People go to their neighbourhood bon odori held at parks, gardens, shrines, or temples, wearing Yukata's and dance around a yagura stage. Anyone can participate in bon odori, so, although this year I did not wear my Yukata, I joined the circle and imitated what others were doing. It was just amazing to be in a such a festive place filled with drumming, dancing and celebration.
No comments:
Post a Comment