Tokushima City Awa Odori THE AWAODORI

Event Overview

"Tokushima City Awa Odori THE AWAODORI" is a massive celebration held primarily in Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, symbolizing the height of summer. Known for the phrase "The dancing fool and the watching fool are both fools; if both are fools, you might as well dance!", the entire city is enveloped in a rhythmic frenzy. The dynamic performances by numerous dancers never fail to captivate visitors.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest charm of this festival is the diverse range of performances held throughout the city. At the official performance stages (Enbutsu-jo), you can witness highly skilled and powerful dances by elite performers. For a more casual experience, free viewing areas and "Odori Hiroba" (Dance Plazas) allow you to feel the heat of the festival up close. The sound of traditional music echoing through the night streets and the sight of dancers in vibrant costumes are truly breathtaking. It is an incredibly energetic space where the audience and performers become one.

Dates & Schedule

The festival runs for 5 days from August 11 (Tue) to August 15 (Sat), 2026. Please note that stages and locations vary depending on the date.

• *August 11 (Tue)**
• "Takumi no Butai: Yuri-bi": Held at Asty Tokushima (as a pre-festival event)
• *August 12 (Wed) – August 15 (Sat)**
• "Yume no Butai: Matsuri-bi": Held at Awagin Hall and various performance stages

Venues & Access

Performances take place at multiple locations throughout central Tokushima City.

• *Paid Performance Stages (Yuryo Enbutsu-jo)**
• Aibahama, Minamiuchi-machi, Konya-machi
• *Free Performance Stages (Muryo Enbutsu-jo)**
• Ryogoku Honmachi, Shinmachibashi
• *Dance Plazas (Odori Hiroba)**
• Shinmachibashi-higashi, Ryogokubashi-minami, Tomimachi
• *Special Stage**
• Asty Tokushima (August 11 only)

• Asty Tokushima: Approx. 5-minute walk from "Tokushima Bunri Daigaku-mae" bus stop on the Tokushima City Bus Yamashiro Line.
• Performance Stages / Awagin Hall: Approx. 5–15 minute walk from JR Tokushima Station.

Tips for Visitors

Awa Odori is an event to be experienced with your whole body. If you wish to watch the performances closely while seated, consider the paid performance stages. For a more spontaneous and free atmosphere, the free viewing areas and dance plazas are excellent choices. As crowds are expected to be heavy, we recommend arriving early to find your preferred viewing style.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor event held during summer nights, lightweight and breathable clothing is highly recommended. We also suggest bringing beverages to stay hydrated due to the heat.

• *Payment Methods**: We recommend carrying cash for entrance fees and food/drink purchases around the venues. Please check the official website for specific payment details.
• *English Support**: Please check the official website for the latest information regarding English language support on-site.
• *Reservations**: Advance reservations or ticket purchases may be required for paid performance stages. Please verify details on the official website in advance.