Bon Odori.

Throughout August in Japan you can hear the sound of beating drums, see the red glow of lanterns, and smell the yakitori on the grill – all of which mean that it is Bon Odori.  Bon Odori is where the spirit of one’s ancestors is honored.  Festivals are held throughout the country in order to entertain and honor those who have gone before us. 

This year for Bon Odori a group from the base trained in traditional dances to be performed at a number of these local festivals.  We met for an hour and a half each week to learn the intricate art of moving our hands and feet to the music. 

I was honestly a little apprehensive to join in the festivities.  I have never been called a dancer and have no rhythm, two things that are typically needed for a performance in front of thousands of people.  But I have tried to embrace life here in Japan and want to leave with no regrets, so I figured that I should give it a try.  Plus, I could always hide in the back. 

I felt honored to be learning these traditions and to be performing with ladies from our neighboring cities who have been dancing for decades.  I ended up having so much fun and even danced on stage for a few of the songs.

Here are some pictures from the base Bon Odori festival.