Partake in a summer Bon Odori dance at this historic temple under the Tokyo Tower
Join the dance of the spirits this summer at Zojoji Temple for the annual Bon Odori Festival. A time-honored tradition, Bon Odori is an integral part of Obon, the Japanese Buddhist custom of honouring the spirits of ancestors.
The main attraction of this event involves a throng of participants circling the yagura tower as the rhythmic beats of taiko drums guide your steps in the Bon Odori dance. The dance is simple and communal, so even if you're a novice, you'll soon find yourself moving in sync with the crowd. As the temple grounds come alive at 6pm, you'll find dozens of food stalls serving up delicious festival favourites from savoury yakitori skewers to icy kakigori.
As the evening unfolds, the Tokyo Tower lights up the night, adding an extra element of spectacle to this traditional celebration. It's a sight to behold and a testament to Tokyo's vibrant blend of the old and the new.