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 (31–40)
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.
Ultraman Ondo
It’s a fun number that mixes the world of tokusatsu heroes with the rhythm of bon odori.
The presence of Ultraman—familiar to everyone—overlaps with the music and captures children’s hearts.
Adding choreography to the “signature pose” lines in the lyrics makes it easy to enjoy even for first-time festival-goers.
The drums and percussion in the background evoke the feeling of summer and bring liveliness to the whole track.
The vocals are dynamic, with clear shifts between sections that make it thoroughly engaging to listen to.
It’s highly recommended not only for kids who love Ultraman, but also for anyone in the mood to soak up a festive atmosphere.
First Step OndoAKB48
It feels like AKB48 has finally ventured into the genre of “ondo,” huh… That’s the vibe.
It’s a song that flows with a slow, “ha—sore!” kind of groove.
With Yasushi Akimoto on lyrics, even though it’s called an ondo, the romantic storyline is depicted clearly.
Anpanman Ondo
Let’s all dance together! Here are some ideas for the “Anpanman Ondo.” Let’s dance the “Anpanman Ondo” with the beloved characters from “Go! Anpanman,” popular in the anime, movies, and picture books! The song has four verses, but the choreography stays the same, so it should be easy for children to learn, right? Moving their bodies to the rhythm can not only develop motor skills and a sense of rhythm, but also help nurture emotional expression—like “I did it!” and “I can dance for fun!”—and boost their self-esteem.
Doraemon Ondo
Let’s enjoy Bon Odori! Here are some ideas for the Doraemon Ondo.
From kids to adults, try dancing the Doraemon Ondo together with Doraemon, beloved from anime and films.
Doraemon’s signature hand shape is also a key point in the choreography! The video even includes choreography for those who want to participate while seated, so be sure to check it out.
The moves are easy to dance in a yukata, too! Make summer memories with the Doraemon Ondo!
Japanese Ondo: a seasonal tradition everyone can enjoy (41–50)
It’s Hamu Hamu ON-DO, Ham-chans!
“Hamham ON-DO da, Ham-chans!” by the Ham-chans is an energetic Bon Odori dance song born from the anime Hamtaro.
All the small, cute characters make an appearance, and a lively rhythm unfolds that makes you want to dance.
With its brisk tempo, it’s fun to join in with call-and-response and hand claps, which will boost children’s eagerness to participate.
The instruments are lively, and the atmosphere builds in step with the song’s progression.
The vocal expressions are rich as well, with a structure that lets each character’s personality shine through.
Even children who don’t know the anime can enjoy it, and using it at summer festivals or school events will create a time filled with smiles.
Ponchararin on a moonlit night
It’s a lively ondo song featuring a variety of animals.
The rhythm moves at a comfortable pace, packed with a fun energy that makes you want to move your body.
You can enjoy imagining the movements of raccoon dogs, rabbits, and fireflies.
The instrumentation is cleverly arranged, and the layered sounds create a distinctly summery atmosphere.
The dance choreography is easy to learn, so even children new to Bon Odori can quickly join the circle and have fun.
Through both song and dance, this piece evokes the bustle of a nighttime scene.
As an ondo that colors summer festival memories, it’s beloved by many children.