#Japan #Tokyo #Ikebukuro #Sunshine City #Bon Odori

Celebrate the 46th Sunshine City Bon Odori Festival

From July 31 to August 2, 2023, the iconic Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, will host the 46th Sunshine City Bon Odori Festival. This time-honored event has been a beloved tradition since Sunshine City opened its doors in 1978, reflecting the region's commitment to fostering a bright, healthy, and vibrant community.

The festival will take place at the rooftop of the Alpa shopping arcade and the Sunshine Square. Each evening from 7:00 PM to 9:15 PM, attendees can enjoy traditional bon odori dance performances, featuring the famous Tokyo Ondo dance as well as the locally inspired Otsuka Monogatari Ondo. Typically, around 5,000 people from various backgrounds attend over the three days, and the event has seen an increase in participation from foreign visitors and younger attendees in recent years.

What to Expect

Participants will be greeted by a towering yagu (a traditional dance platform) standing at about 6 meters high, where everyone is invited to join in the dances. An exciting aspect of the event is the 'Tobii-ri Time,' allowing attendees to jump onto the platform and dance along even if they have never experienced bon odori before. This aspect supports intergenerational exchange and cultural interactions, making it an event that brings together local residents and visitors alike.

In addition to dance, there will be a variety of food stalls set up by eight vendors from the Alpa shopping area. The vendors will offer a delightful array of summer specialties, including shaved ice (kakigori), fried chicken (karaage), and savory okonomiyaki, perfect for the summer heat! Families with children can also look forward to the popular Children’s Mini-Yen Festival, featuring free activities like shooting games and ring toss.

A Community Celebration

The festival makes for a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand. Set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s urban landscape, the Sunshine City Bon Odori Festival stands as an enriching cultural exchange platform. Toshiharu Takano, the chairperson of the organizing committee, emphasized the aim for this year is to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the festivities, whether they are longtime residents or visiting from abroad.

Organized by a coalition of 25 local groups, the festival is supported by Toshima City, reinforcing the festival’s significance as a cultural highlight in the region. The involvement of local volunteers from the Sunshine City Group and other community members enhances the heartwarming atmosphere, reminding us all of the joy of summer traditions.

Participation in the festivities is open to all, and the community hopes to create many joyful memories this summer through dance, food, and friendships.

Event Details

Here are the key details you need to know:

• - Date: July 31 (Thursday) – August 2 (Saturday), 2023
• - Time: 7:00 PM – 9:15 PM (Rain or shine, the event will continue unless canceled due to severe weather)
• - Location: Sunshine City Alpa Rooftop & Sunshine Square, 3-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo
• - Contact: For inquiries, please call 03-3989-3331

For more information, check out the official website here. Join us this summer at the Sunshine City Bon Odori Festival and experience the rich flavors and vibrant dances of our local culture!