COMING SOON: The 23rd Manila Japanese Bon Odori Festival on March 8, 2025
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance festival held during Obon, a Buddhist event that honors the spirits of ancestors. Dating back over 500 years, Bon Odori features lively group dances performed in a circle around a yagura (raised platform) to the rhythm of taiko drums and folk songs. Each region in Japan has its own unique dances, such as Tankō Bushi and Awa Odori, reflecting local history and culture. Participants often wear yukata (summer kimono), and the festival is filled with street food stalls, lantern displays, and community gatherings. Though originally a religious practice, Bon Odori has evolved into a joyous celebration of heritage, unity, and summer festivities, welcoming everyone—locals and visitors alike—to join in the dance and experience Japanese tradition at its finest!
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
If you want to experience this without actually going to Japan, worry no more because the Manila Japanese Bon Odori Festival is back on its 23rd iteration!
On March 8, 2025 (Saturday) from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., experience the colorful Japanese summer tradition at the Manila Japanese School in BGC, Taguig. Enjoy traditional Bon Odori dances, dynamic stage performances, authentic Japanese festival food, and a grand fireworks display to cap off the night.
While it’s a special gathering for Japanese Association Manila Incorporated (JAMI) members, families, friends, and Filipino guests are all welcome to join in on the fun! Admission is Php 100 per head (FREE for JAMI members and children 15 years old and below, accompanied by an adult). Advance ticket purchase at the JAMI office (Trident Tower 22/F) is recommended.
For inquiries, call 02-8810-7909 or 8815-3559, or email jami@jami.ph.
See you there!
