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 (21–30)
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.
Gosha Dance
A celebratory local chant that has been handed down at Hine Shrine in Izumisano City, Osaka Prefecture.
Its origins lie in the travel songs popular during pilgrimages to Ise in the Edo period.
In 1965, its name was chosen through public submissions from parishioners, and it was dedicated along with choreography.
It is characterized by an energetic style where drum rhythms and spirited calls blend as one.
Carefully preserved by the hands of local residents, it is truly a song imbued with the heart of their hometown.
Why not experience the fervor of Osaka’s festivals and the warm prayers of its people?
Katano-bushi
This is a traditional Bon Odori song from the Kawachi region, believed to have originated in the mid-Edo period.
It is also known as a root of the Kawachi Ondo.
Each locality has passed it down with slight variations in melody and dance, and its simple, rustic tone may evoke images of one’s hometown.
In October 2018, a recording titled “Katano-bushi ~ Ishikawa Goemon ~,” arranged with orchestral accompaniment, was released.
Furthermore, in 2025, as part of a project related to the Osaka-Kansai Expo, an up-tempo arrangement of this piece aimed at younger listeners was introduced.
It is a fascinating track that lets you experience both traditional timbres and contemporary arrangements.
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.
Ghost Fireworks Ondo
“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.
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.