Summer celebrations are about to begin! Here in Gifu, this means it’s finally time to show off your best dance moves, Gujo-style!! Grab your yukata and geta (traditional wooden clogs) and get ready for the Gujo Dance Festival in less than a month! Details for the opening ceremony is as follows.

【Date】 July 13th (Sat)
【Time】 From 7:30pm (Dancing ends at 11pm)
【Venue】 The small square in front of the Kinenkan building. Further details here.
http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/odorimaps/jul_13_2024_e.htm

The Gujo Dance Festival is a beloved local tradition of over 400 years old, and is considered to be one of Japan’s three great Bon dances. It’s held across 30 different nights over a period of three months. This dance, along with the Kanomizu no Kakeodori dance of Meiho, Gujo, was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in late 2022.

With moves that are easy to learn even for beginners, everyone is encouraged to join in the festivities, locals and visitors alike. Just hop into the dance circle and follow the movements of the people around you!

If you’re planning on visiting Gifu this summer, make sure and check out the schedule to see if there are any dances you can make!

Note that times and venues for the festival for each night is different so please be sure to check the schedule in the link below for specific details.

There are days with all-night dancing (ending at 5am the next morn!!) as well from the 13th to the 16th of August!

2024 Gujo Dance Festival Period: July 13th (Sat) ~ 7th September (Sat)
2024 Gujo Dance Festival Schedule:
http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/odori_schedule_e.html

For more info: