Gujo Odori

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Near: Nagoya  (Event is Free)

Event Date(s): Jul. 14, 2024
(The festival lasts thirty-two nights, from the middle of July to early September)
Dates are subject to change without notice. Check with the official organizers before making travel arrangements.

Held in Gujo city, Gifu Japan, This festival actually lasts 32 days, from the middle of July to early September but the "major/main" days are during Obon (usually around August 13 to 16), when dances continue all night.  The festival is said to have originated in the early 1600's in order to bring "social cohesion" to the people in and around town.  There are around 10 kinds of dances performed, two of which are very easy to learn even for the "first-timer".  Anybody can join in so don't be shy! Gujo can get packed with people during Obon (which makes it all the more fun) but even during any day in August there are many tourists, foreigner and Japanese alike visiting the town.

The location of the dances changes most every night so you will need to check the schedule on the Official Gujo Odori website. For the best experience, purchase a Yukata (Yukatas are not expensive) along with some wooden Geta sandals. These can be rented but a Yukata at a local clothing store will only cost around 2,000 yen.

Gujo, Gifu Japan

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Website: Gujo Odori Homepage