Japanese ondō: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy.
We’ve gathered classic and must-hear picks of traditional Bon-odori songs recommended by our studio staff—fun for everyone from adults to kids.
It’s a playlist sure to delight festival-loving Japanese listeners!
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Japanese ondo: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy (1–10)
Tokyo OndoKouta Katsutarou
Speaking of that familiar cheer that begins with “Haaah,” it’s Tokyo Ondo.
Even if you don’t really know the choreography, it’s the kind of song that makes you feel like breaking into a little dance.
It’s also well known as a fight song for the Tokyo Swallows professional baseball team.
Even when it rains, it’s fun to raise and lower your umbrella while listening to Tokyo Ondo.
Shimokita OndoBarō Marakasu-dan
Here is the work that actually won the Grand Prize in an open call held in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo.
In this video, you can see choreography initiated by choreographer Shigeki Majima, who once took the world by storm with “Matsuken Samba.”
Gudetama Ondogudetama
It’s a laid-back bon-odori-style tune by Gudetama, the lazy egg who’s actually an official Sanrio Puroland character.
The lines Gudetama drops in throughout the lyrics are kind of funny.
The song itself is a bright, fun track you can dance to.
Japanese Ondo: Seasonal traditions everyone can enjoy (11–20)
Tokyo OndoKouta Katsutarou
The famous “Tokyo Ondo,” recorded in 1933, is performed here by its original singer, Kouta Katsutaro.
You can enjoy this now-rare footage.
Beyond Bon Odori festivals, the song is also well known as a fight song for the professional baseball team, the Yakult Swallows.
Japan’s Big Three Chatcha-cha!
This is a fun song themed around Bon Odori dances from all over Japan.
It unfolds with a friendly tempo and rhythm.
The vocals are bright, and the repeated words and rhythmic phrases are catchy, so children will quickly learn and enjoy it.
The instrumental sounds are lively, creating the perfect atmosphere for dancing with hand claps and calls.
Its structure highlights the unique qualities of each region, making it enjoyable to experience the cultures of Japan while playing.
It’s well-suited for summer festival stages and school events, and it’s a piece that naturally brings out smiles.
Let’s dance, Ondo!
This is a participatory Bon Odori song that everyone can enjoy moving their bodies to.
The comical vocals and lively rhythm combine to create an atmosphere that naturally makes you want to dance as you listen.
The choreography that matches the lyrics is easy to follow, making it perfect for getting everyone excited at preschools or local summer festivals.
With moves like fireworks and hand claps, you’ll listen on with anticipation, wondering what comes next.
The instrumental tones are vibrant, and the balance with the vocals is exquisite.
A major appeal is that children can shout along, move their bodies, and have fun together.
Whether dancing in yukata or hero costumes, this song lets you fully feel the bustle of summer.
National Sake-Drinking Festival Song of Japanbarakūda
The lyrics, which use any excuse to drink, are shocking.
Released in 1976, this track is notable for the way it lifts your spirits just by listening.
The song’s prototype comes from “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo,” the musical number in Disney’s film Cinderella.