Japanese ondō: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy.

Tokyo OndoKouta Katsutarou

Kouta Katsutaro & Issho Mishima: Tokyo Ondo A/B

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.

National Sake-Drinking Festival Song of Japanbarakūda

Nationwide Drinkers' Ondo (with Nico Nico Douga comments)

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.

Arale-chan OndoKoyama Mami

Arale-chan Ondo

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

Bon Odori: The 1+1 Ondo [Demo Video]

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

Yellow Submarine Ondo / Akiko Kanazawa

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.

Let’s dance, Ondo!

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.

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Ghost Fireworks Ondo

[Professional Dancers Perform!] Ghost Fireworks Bon Dance

“Ghost Fireworks Ondo” captures a fun, summery vibe.

Its unique world where friendly ghosts appear blends with lively images of fireworks, unfolding in ways that spark children’s imaginations.

The music layers sounds like drums and flutes, clearly evoking the atmosphere of a Bon dance.

The singing is approachable, with vivid expression that seems to breathe life into the ghosts.

The dance choreography is easy to pick up, making it useful for preschools and local summer events.

Combining playfulness with a seasonal feel, this piece is the perfect ondo for summer festivals.

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