Noto Bon-Odori Fest Aims to Unite and Revive Noto Peninsula After Earthquake

Noto Bon-Odori Fest: Bringing Hope to Noto Peninsula

On October 5, 2025, a groundbreaking event will unfold in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture: the inaugural Noto Bon-Odori Fest. This festival, which aims to revitalize the local community after the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, will showcase an original Bon dance performed by artists hailing from Ishikawa. For the first time, local artists will gather, united by their dedication to supporting the recovery and bringing joy to the people of Noto.

Background and Purpose of the Festival

The Noto Bon-Odori Fest is unlike any other, emphasizing a theme of community gathering through dance, created specifically for the people of Noto by local artists. It is positioned as part of the broader SAKEBEER NOTO event initiative. The festival not only serves as a creative expression but also as a heartfelt thank you to the local community as the artists share their roots through music and dance.

Beneath the guidance of the Noto Bon-Odori Fest Executive Committee, led by Mayumi Tachikawa, a sense of collaboration has blossomed among Ishikawa natives and Wajima residents. Through surveys conducted with 70 children from the Wajima City Children's Club, music producer nishi-ken created an original composition influenced by their hopes and dreams. The choreography is crafted by renowned dancers, including Uko Takamoto, who represents the rich tradition of Japanese performing arts. Together, they bring forth an inspiring performance designed to connect the community and uplift spirits during challenging times.

Event Highlights

The Noto Bon-Odori Fest is set to take place at the Wajima KABURET from 5 PM on the event day. The festival will commence with the opening of the SAKEBEER NOTO festivities at noon, followed by delightful activities:

- Anpan Eating Contest at 3:05 PM
- Bon Dance Performance at 5 PM, showcasing the collaborative efforts of the children and the dancers
- A vibrant finale at 6 PM filled with music and community spirit

All proceeds from food sales by participating sponsors will be entirely donated to the Wajima City Social Welfare Council, ensuring that every effort directed at supporting local children is maximized.

Local Collaborations and Community Engagement

The festival enjoys the support of various local companies, including the Kanazawa Maimon Sushi Group and Gogo Curry Group, who have stepped forward to provide food and drink stalls. Their contributions represent a larger commitment to community recovery through partnership and goodwill. In addition to local cuisine, NGO MIRAI will offer free yukata fittings for attendees, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities.

The dance choreography brings together the talents of nishi-ken and a team of dancers deeply rooted in Noto's cultural heritage. Participants are encouraged to let loose and celebrate, as the Bon dance becomes a unifying force that welcomes everyone, regardless of their background.

A Future Built on Hope

The Noto Bon-Odori Fest embodies the sentiment, “One Heart, One Wajima.” It is a commitment to not only revitalize the spirit of Noto but also to empower the community through culture and creativity. This event marks a crucial step in promoting a brighter future for residents, where the memories of the past are honored and new traditions created.

Join Us!

For those who wish to be part of this remarkable initiative, join us on October 5, 2025, at Wajima KABURET. Dive into the rhythm of Bon dance, experience the joy of community, and witness the resilience of Noto firsthand.

For inquiries and additional information, please contact:
Noto Bon-Odori Fest Executive Committee
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 090-2762-7370

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