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[2026] Bon Odori songs every child knows! A roundup of fun festival tunes

Bon Odori, a quintessential summer tradition! Festival stalls sell games and delicious food, making it hugely popular with kids.

Here, we’ll introduce a variety of wonderful Bon Odori songs—from tunes children already know to unique arrangements of J-pop and Western music.

Lots of new songs are appearing, too.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure about the dance steps—what matters is having fun.

Kids and adults alike, be sure to join in Bon Odori and make some great memories!

[2026] Bon Odori songs every kid knows! A fun festival song roundup (101–110)

Hyokkori Hyoutan-jima

Hyokkori Hyotan Island Spring Bon Odori Festival in LaLaport Nagoya Minato AQULS
Hyokkori Hyoutan-jima

The puppet show Hyokkori Hyotan-jima, which aired in the 1960s.

This song of the same title, released as the show’s theme, has been sung by many artists—including Morning Musume—and is a timeless classic widely known across generations.

Let’s dance a Bon Odori to this song that everyone, from children to adults, knows! We recommend adding choreography that sways like an island drifting on the sea or like gently swimming through the waves.

Since the tempo is a bit fast, incorporating bigger movements and traveling steps rather than intricate motions will help you enjoy dancing without getting too caught up in the choreography!

Hurricane Ondo

2010.08.07 Night at the New City food stalls
Hurricane Ondo

This is a song from the 2002 Super Sentai series Ninpuu Sentai Hurricaneger.

While most Super Sentai teams had previously consisted of five members, Hurricaneger’s three-member format became a hot topic for its unusual approach.

Since the heroes are ninja with a traditional Japanese theme, the festive ondo-style music suits it well.

Ise Ondo

Ise Ondo “Standard Ise Ondo”
Ise Ondo

Ise Ondo is a folk song that was sung in Ise Province during the Edo period and spread throughout Japan.

Various regional versions of Ise Ondo exist.

It is said to have originated as a lumber-hauling work song (kiyari-uta) sung by okihiki who transported timber for the Ise Grand Shrine’s periodic rebuilding, as songs sung along the pilgrimage routes to Ise, and as popular tunes in the entertainment quarters around the Shrine.

Broadly, it appears to be divided into the “Seichō Ise Ondo” style and the “Ise Dōchū-uta” style.

Hokkai Bon Song

This is “Hokkai Bon Uta,” famous as the original song for the opening theme of The Drifters’ TV program ‘It’s 8 O’Clock! Everybody Assemble!’ The record by enka singer Michiya Mihashi was a huge hit and spread nationwide.

While it has become established as a Bon dance song in Hokkaido, it is also frequently included in the set lists of summer festivals and Bon dances throughout Japan.

Itabashi Ondo

#Gorgeous #Itabashi Ondo (#Nagashi Ver.) #Itabashi Ward Residents' Festival 2019 #Folk Dance Parade #Tokyo Autumn Festival Tokyo Japan
Itabashi Ondo

Let me introduce a staple Bon Odori song from Itabashi Ward in Tokyo.

Beloved by locals and emblematic of Itabashi’s culture, this piece is indispensable at festivals and events.

It follows a folk-song style, characterized by the sounds of drums and flutes.

The lyrics weave in famous spots and scenery from Itabashi, such as the Arakawa and Shakujii Rivers, conveying the feel of everyday life across the four seasons.

Creating a sense of unity and togetherness among residents, the song appeals to people of all ages.

It’s also a great chance for those who don’t often make it out to experience the festive atmosphere.

Give it a listen and discover the charm of Itabashi Ward for yourself.

[2026] Bon Odori songs every kid knows! A fun roundup of festival tunes (111–120)

Kawachi Ondo

Its roots go back to the Edo period, and while there are various arrangements and lyrics, the most famous today is likely Kōzaburō Teppō’s “Teppō-bushi Kawachi Ondo Series,” released in 1961.

Although Kawachi Ondo originated in Osaka, it has now gained nationwide recognition, and the song continues to be actively used as a Bon Odori tune at community events held in the Kanto region.

Ginza Kan-kan Girl

"Ginza Kankan Musume" Dance Edition — Sapporo Chūreitō Bon Odori Festival
Ginza Kan-kan Girl

Ginza Kankan Musume is a classic song with a lively rhythm, a fun melody, and lyrics celebrating a free and independent woman.

Set in Ginza, the symbol of postwar recovery, the image of the Kankan girl dashing around the city in sandals is glamorous and full of energy.

Released in 1949 and beloved as the theme song of the film of the same name, it stands as one of composer Ryoichi Hattori’s signature works.

It’s the perfect tune for savoring a Showa-retro vibe at summer festivals and other events.

If everyone sings and dances along, it’s sure to be a hit!