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: Seasonal traditions everyone can enjoy (11–20)
Arale-chan OndoKoyama Mami
Although it was released in 1981, it’s still a staple that’s often played at summer Bon Odori festivals.
In fact, this song is more famous nationwide than the anime’s theme song, and it’s frequently used outside of Bon Odori as well—often as a segment tune or ending theme on radio programs.
The Chant of 1 Plus 1Suizenji Kiyoko
Kiyoko Suizenji, famous for “Cheetah,” has songs with wonderfully positive lyrics.
The tune has that classic ondo style through and through, but you can savor such charming lines as, “You plus me is I love you; Mama plus Papa don’t kno~ow.” It’s no surprise the lyrics are by Tetsurō Hoshino.
Yellow Submarine OndoKanazawa Akiko
A song that covers Yellow Submarine in Japanese with extensive rearrangements.
The singer, Ms.
Kanazawa, is a folk singer, so her vocal ability is outstanding.
Since it’s originally a Beatles song, I imagine opinions will be divided, but I have to take my hat off to the idea of turning a huge Western hit into an ondo dance tune.
Hanagasa OndoKanazawa Akiko
This is a popular ondō song often used in the Japanese festival “Hanagasa Matsuri,” where people dance through the streets to the Hanagasa Ondō.
The festival is held mainly in the Tohoku region.
Among them, the “Yamagata Hanagasa Festival,” held annually in August in Yamagata City, is especially famous.
Genki Ondo
It’s a bright and lively Bon Odori song.
Set to a poppy rhythm, it features moves like the “hungry tummy growl” pose and big-voice gestures that naturally make kids want to move.
The choreography is easy to follow and full of the joy of dancing together.
Its energetic tempo and friendly vocals will further boost the festive mood.
The clear rhythm and catchy melody stick in your head, and moving freely to the music brings out smiles.
Popular as a versatile number for kindergartens and local summer festivals, it’s perfect for summer events where everyone can dance, sing, and feel energized.
Tanuki Lord’s Ondo
“Tanuki no Tonosama Ondo” is a playful ondo that portrays the cheerful world of tanuki.
The song weaves in humorous scenes, inviting dancers to move as if enjoying a story.
Its tempo is calm yet easy to follow, making it perfect for Bon Odori.
The vocals are gentle, creating a soothing atmosphere that children can sing along to with ease.
Traditional Japanese instruments envelop the piece, giving it a distinctly Japanese sensibility.
The choreography—like handclaps and the tanuki’s tummy-patting—makes movements easy to express, welcoming participants of all ages.
This song, which lets you experience the tanuki’s delightful tale through music and dance, will color a memorable moment of summer.
Japanese Ondo: Seasonal traditions everyone can enjoy (21–30)
Relaxed Bon Dance
This is a bon-odori song with a gentle atmosphere that evokes the world of the anime Ojarumaru.
It depicts Japan’s seasonal landscapes and can help children become familiar with nature and the changing seasons.
The rhythm is calm, the dance movements are relaxed, and participants can join in with ease.
The warmth of the vocals and the soft melody combine to make summer festival time more enjoyable.
Even children who aren’t fond of vigorous movement can enjoy it comfortably, and its appeal lies in the fact that the whole family can form a circle and dance together.
It’s easy for fans of the anime to embrace as well, and it can be described as a work that gently accompanies everyday life.