Visit Oita

The Himeshima Bon Odori is a traditional festival held on the remote island of Himeshima, located in northeastern Oita Prefecture. In Japan, the Obon season in August is a time to honor and give thanks to the spirits of ancestors, who are believed to return to visit their families. Bon Odori, a form of dance, is performed as part of these ceremonies, and its style and music vary by region, reflecting unique local cultures.

In Himeshima, various traditional and creative dances are performed, such as the Aya Odori, where young men and women pair up, with women dancing gracefully as men rhythmically clap bamboo sticks while energetically weaving through the performance. Another highlight is the Zeni Daiko, in which men dance powerfully while striking traditional drums held in their hands, which is contrasted by fluid and graceful movements from the women. However, the most popular attraction is the Kitsune Odori, or Fox Dance, where children, dressed as white kitsune foxes with painted faces and white costumes, mimic kitsune-like gestures in a humorous and charming performance that delights the audience with laughter.

The festival runs over several days, but the best time to visit is on August 14th and 15th, as the 16th focuses on somber dances to honor the departed.