2023 Annual Bon-Odori, Summer Festival Event - Portland Japanese Garden (Live Taiko, Bon Odori-Come to Learn the Dance)NEW

A highlight of summer festivals in Japan is the bon-odori (盆踊り/ Bon dance). Each region in Japan has their own version of the dance, as well as different music. In Japanese Buddhist tradition, dancing is a way to welcome the spirits of our ancestors and the celebrate life. Dancers circle the yagura, a high wooden bandstand for the musicians and singers.

Come to learn the dance, see people dressed in yukata, and to hear and feel the sound of taiko drums.

Dates
August 26, 2023

Event Time
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

To plan your visit, please see the program below. (Specific dances with video instructions will be added at a later date.)

Festival Schedule
1:15 - 1:45 pm: First dance set | This set will feature traditional songs performed by Takohachi. Dances will by taught by Chris Dart and demonstrated by dancers from Oregon Buddhist Temple.

1:45 - 2:15 pm: Musical performance | Takohachi plus special musical guests from Japan.

2:15 - 2:45 pm: Second dance set | This set will feature Japanese dances from the 1980s and 1990s.

2:45 - 3:15 pm: Break

3:15 - 3:45 pm: Final dance set | This set will feature bon dances popular in the United States.

Costs
Included with Gardenm Admission




Portland Japanese Garden Festival Dates  

Obon Festivals & Practices
 
Obon Festivals  Obon Practices 

See Japanese Event Festivals  

All Japanese Festivals Events  Map

Celebrate the Japanese Culture food, performances and dancing.
(Please always confirm date & times, the schedule could change)


Event Location
Portland Japanese Garden, 611 S.W. Kingston Ave., Portland, OR 97205

Event Title
Annual O-Bon, The Spirit Festival - Portland Japanese Garden (Aug 15 - 18, 4 Days)