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George N / CC BY 2.0
PAST EVENTFREE ENTRYMatsuri· Annual
Awa Odori Tokushima
阿波おどり
Tokushima · Shikoku
Japan's largest dance festival draws 1.3 million spectators to watch 100,000 dancers in teams (ren) perform the 400-year-old fool's dance. The rhythm — Awa Yoshikono — is infectiously simple and drives the entire city.
- Dates
- August 12–15, 2027
- Start time
- 18:00
- Location
- Tokushima · Shikoku
- Nearest station
- Tokushima Station · 5 min walk
- Crowd level
- National attendance
- Entry
- Free entry
- Official site
- awaodorimirai.com
Happens every year
What to expect
The streets of Tokushima come alive with vibrant yukata-clad dancers moving in unison to the rhythmic beat of taiko drums and shamisen. Lanterns illuminate the night, casting a warm glow over the jubilant crowds.
Best viewing tips
For the best view, head to the paid seating areas along the main streets. Arrive early to secure a spot, and bring a fan to stay cool in the summer heat.
How to get there
From Takamatsu Station · ~1h 15m by car
Your turn
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