AWA-ODORI

Tokushima is known all over Japan for its Awa odori folk dance parade which is held in conjunction with O-bon, the festival of the dead. People from the city and the surrounding area, as well as many tourists, come to dance from place to place to the rhythm of shamisen, drums and Yoshikono song, a spiritual and romantic song of the Edo period. Dancing troupes compete with each other in a professional way to offer a sensational show. This festival is known to be very lively and is a must-see of the year.