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Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Bon Odori: Festival meant to honour ancestors now beloved cultural showcase in Penang
GEORGE TOWN, July 18 — Every year, around the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, Obon was held in Japan to honour the spirits of their ancestors. Obon is a Japanese memorial service held to honour the souls of departed ancestors who were believed to have returned home during that period. Interestingly, this overlapped with the Chinese Hungry Ghost Festival's main day to pray to the deceased with the same belief that spirits of their ancestors returned home during that period. The earliest record of Obon being practiced to welcome ancestors' souls with prayers and visiting them was dated 606 by the Empress Suiko (r. 593–628). Over the years, other influences were introduced such as the chanting of nenbutsu prayers and furyū, a lively folk dance, that formed the basis for the Bon Odori festivals that is being held today. Performances during Bon Odori 2024 in Penang. — Picture via Facebook/ Penang Global Tourism The folk dances performed during Bon Odori were passed down from long ago to coordinate with the lyrics that were initially to receive spirits and send them off again. Now, in modern times, the festival has become a cultural celebration to liven up summers in Japan while the religious aspect was mostly lost. Since most of the choreography of the dances were based around yukata, a light cotton kimono Japanese wear during summer, most participants and attendees will be dressed in their best yukata. Though the dances were the main feature of the festival, other activities are also held such as games stalls and an array of food stalls. Bon Odori in Penang While Bon Odori festivals are held over two to four nights or even up to six weeks in different cities in Japan, the festival is held for one night in Penang. Bon Odori was first introduced in Penang back in the early 1990s when it was organised by the Japanese community living in Penang and by Japanese companies in the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone. The festival started small, only held within the Penang Japanese School grounds or in company premises for Japanese expatriates living here to stay connected to their cultural traditions. According to tourism committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, as interest in Japanese culture grew, Bon Odori was then held at Padang Kota Lama in the early 2000s. 'Bon Odori evolved into a state-supported event, co-organised by the Consulate-General of Japan, the Penang state government, Penang Global Tourism, and the Penang Japanese Association,' he said. Today, the Bon Odori festival has become one of Penang's main cultural highlights that attracted visitors from other states and tourists alike. Bon Odori 2025 This year, Penang Bon Odori will be held on July 19 at Padang Kota Lama from 5pm onwards. Seen in this picture is a snapshot of Bon Odori 2024 in Penang. The celebration has now become a regular feature in Penang. — Picture via Facebook/ Penang Global Tourism Wong said the theme this year — 'Akari Bon Odori' (festival of lights)— reflects the state's hope to illuminate the night sky as well as shine a light on the spirit of community, friendship and togetherness. As with each annual Bon Odori festival, there will be traditional Bon Odori dances on the main stage where everyone is encouraged to participate as they converge on the field. 'There will also be taiko drum performances and martial arts demonstrations,' he said. There will be booths on another section of the field with cultural workshops such as calligraphy, origami and dressing up in yukatas. Festival games, cultural exhibitions and performances will be held by university troupes from Japan while Japanese street food will be available at the food stalls along with Penang's own street food. Wong said the night of festivities will culminate in a fireworks display at the end of the evening. Crowds at the cultural booths during Bon Odori 2024. — Picture by Opalyn Mok.
Hype Malaysia
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
MATSURI Festival 'Konnichiwa, Japan! Together, Here' Coming To KL This August
The most anticipated event of the year is finally arriving! The MATSURI Festival – 'Konnichiwa, Japan! Together, Here' – will light up Pavilion Bukit Jalil this August. Blending traditional arts with contemporary Japanese culture, the festival creates an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. Rooted in the spirited Bon Odori tradition, the festival features captivating performances, authentic street food, and hands-on activities. Guests can discover artisanal crafts, explore one-of-a-kind pop-ups, and enjoy special shopping experiences. For anyone eager to experience Japan's rich culture, this celebration is not to be missed. From traditional performances to anime-themed pop-ups, this festival offers vibrant cultural experiences. With activities such as lively shows by JAGAM members, bonsai displays, and exploring handmade crafts from local and Japanese artisans, this festival is sure to give you a taste of traditional Japan. Additionally, fun stalls like Tamagotchi by Cotton Blue and Doko Koko by Nijigen add a modern twist to the event. Food lovers can savour authentic Japanese street food, while culture fans discover traditional art showcases. With colourful decorations and engaging activities, the festival transforms the mall into a lively slice of Japan. So, whether you're a foodie, cosplayer, culture lover or simply curious, here is all the information for the festival. MATSURI Festival – 'Konnichiwa, Japan! Together, Here' in Malaysia Date: From 30th July 2025 (Wednesday) to 3rd August 2025 (Sunday) From 30th July 2025 (Wednesday) to 3rd August 2025 (Sunday) Time: From 10am to 10pm From 10am to 10pm Venue: Centre Court, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur Why wait for the main event? Festivities kick off early with the Japan Fair by The Food Merchant starting on the 17th July, followed by lively Japanese vendor booths from the 29th July. These exciting previews offer a taste of what's to come and build anticipation for the grand celebration later in the month. For more information and updates, head to their official website or follow them on their social media. Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavours of Japan right here in Kuala Lumpur. Are you ready to experience the magic of Japan? Zaima Humaria contributed to this article
Time Out
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
3 fantastic Bon Odori festivals happening in Tokyo this July 19-21 long weekend
Tokyo's summer festival season is in full swing, and this upcoming long weekend perfectly encapsulates the city's vibrant energy. What makes the Marine Day weekend especially exciting is the variety of traditional events on offer, including a number of Bon Odori festivities happening across the city. Bon Odori is a lively summer dance held during the Obon period to honour ancestors – a tradition that's been around for over 500 years. People gather around a yagura stage, dancing in circles to the rhythm of the music. It's a festive, feel-good way to spend a summer night – and the perfect chance to show off your best dance moves. Here are three Bon Odori festivals you can join this weekend. Sendagaya Bon Odori Festival, July 18-19 To kick things off, stop by the Sendagaya Bon Odori Festival taking place at Hato no Mori Hachiman Shrine. You can expect food stalls set up by local businesses, as well as games and activities for children. Plus, of course, the requisite communal dancing. Not familiar with the moves? No worries. Drop by around 4pm to learn the choreography, and you can join in one of the Bon Odori dances happening at 5.30pm, 7pm and 7.50pm (5.30pm, 6.45pm and 8pm on Saturday). Daibon, July 19 Get ready to get your groove on at Daibon, a modern rendition of the traditional Bon Odori festival held at Hachiman Shrine in Nakano ward's Yamatocho. Here, the customary Bon Odori festivities are fused with a line-up of DJs and contemporary artists, merging the timeless traditions with the energetic pulse of new-wave beats. Watch as the festival comes alive with live DJ sets, which have in the past featured eclectic talents like Chinbantei Goraku Shisho, and the invigorating performances of Korean percussionists. Daibon takes the typical Bon Odori experience a step further, creating a fusion of sounds that should strike a chord with revellers of all ages. Jiyugaoka Noryo Bon Odori Festival, July 19-21 The public square in front of Jiyugaoka Station is hosting a massive Bon Odori festival between July 19 and 21. Expect lively dancing to begin at 6.30pm each night (7pm on July 19) to the tune of Bon Odori classics such as 'Tokyo Ondo', as well as a more modern line-up of music featuring remixes of contemporary J-pop songs such as 'RPG' from Sekai no Owari and 'Takaneno Hanakosan' by Back Number. New for 2025 is a special kids' dance session beginning at 5.30pm (6.10pm on July 19), making the Noryo Bon Odori a fun and family-friendly night out. The Fuji Rock timetable for 2025 is here The timetable for Summer Sonic 2025 is out now
Free Malaysia Today
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Free Malaysia Today
Bon Odori draws 50,000 in festival's debut outside Shah Alam
Annual Japanese festival Bon Odori, held for the first time in Sunway City instead of Shah Alam, attracted 50,000 people from all walks of life. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) PETALING JAYA : The 49th Bon Odori Festival drew a record-breaking crowd of over 50,000 visitors at Sunway City Kuala Lumpur on July 12-13, the first time the Japanese summer celebration was held outside Shah Alam in nearly five decades. Previously held at the Panasonic Stadium in Shah Alam, the strategic move to Sunway City was to broaden the event's outreach under the 'Surprising Selangor' campaign in conjunction with Visit Selangor Year 2025. 'Bon Odori is more than a festival. It's a reflection of the deep ties between Malaysia and Japan,' said Sunway Mall's chief executive officer HC Chan, who expressed hope that the two-day format would continue well into the future. Co-organised by the Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur (JCKL), the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur and the Japanese embassy, with support from Tourism Selangor, the festival featured over 100 stalls, musical performances and crowd-led traditional dances. Selangor executive councillor for local government and tourism Ng Suee Lim (left) with Japan's ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata during the Bon Odori festival over the weekend. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle pic) Japan's ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata said preparations for the expanded format took more than half a year, involving close coordination with local authorities and cultural partners. Bon Odori, a summer festival rooted in Japanese Buddhist tradition, has evolved into a massive cultural celebration across Malaysia since its inception here in 1977. Originally held so Japanese expatriates could pass on their heritage to their children, the event now attracts a multi-ethnic crowd eager to immerse in food, music and dance. 'Tonight is not just a celebration of dance or food, it is a bridge between our communities,' said Selangor executive councillor for local government and tourism Ng Suee Lim at the launch. He praised Sunway's involvement in elevating the festival into a tourism highlight, noting a sharp rise in Japanese tourist arrivals to the state — from 110,018 in 2023 to 132,526 in 2024, an increase of 20.5%. Year 9 students of the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur opened the Bon Odori festival with a stirring Taiko drum and dance performance. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) Students from the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur opened the festival with a spirited Taiko performance before leading the Bon Odori dance from the central Yagura platform, a symbolic act to invite the crowd to join in. Year 9 student Aika Sato, who performed on July 12 with a group of 18 Taiko drummers and 15 dancers, said they trained daily for a month to master three sets of traditional routines. 'We practised after lunch and during our breaks every day. It's our way of sharing Japan's traditional dances,' she said. 'It's a bit different here compared with Japan, where the festivals are bigger and usually end with fireworks. Whether in Japan or here, it's all about sharing and coming together,' she added. Year 9 student Aika Sato of the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur says Bon Odori is all about sharing and coming together as one community. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle pic) Sunday featured a different lineup with Year 7 and Year 8 students leading the performance, including 58 dancers and 12 drummers. Chan said the Bon Odori event reflected Sunway's broader collaboration with Japan through education and business, including joint ventures in IT, clean energy and university exchanges. 'Through events like this, we are not just building townships, we are nurturing cross-cultural communities,' he said. Festivalgoers indulged in everything from mouthwatering yakitori to takoyaki and ramune soda. Food stalls were curated by Pingmin Market and included Muslim- and non-Muslim-friendly offerings, in line with the festival's inclusive ethos. Admission to the festival was free, and crowd control was managed with assistance from the police, the Subang Jaya City Council and medical volunteers. Visitors to the Bon Odori event look on as 18 Taiko drummers and 15 dancers from the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur perform. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) JCKL president Dai Hoshiai described the event as a symbol of cross-cultural harmony. 'It started small, but has now become one of the largest Bon Odori festivals outside of Japan,' he said. For many, the festival offered more than entertainment – it was a bridge between cultures. 'We want people to experience our dance, food and games, and understand Japanese traditions,' Sato said. 'That's what Bon Odori means to me.'
Hype Malaysia
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
49th Bon Odori 2025 Is Coming To Sunway City Kuala Lumpur This Weekend
Get ready to dance, feast, and celebrate under the festival night lights because the 49th Bon Odori 2025 is coming to Sunway City Kuala Lumpur with not one, but two lively days of celebration this weekend! Originally starting out as a small affair for Japanese expatriates to immerse their children in Japanese culture in 1977, Bon Odori has since grown into a much-awaited annual event. This year, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur is co-organising the 49th Bon Odori 2025 with The Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur (JCKL), The Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur, and the Embassy of Japan, honouring Japanese traditions while fostering cross-cultural appreciation and marking a symbol of the enduring friendship between Japan and Malaysia. The 49th Bon Odori 2025 will feature over 100 booths offering tantalising Japanese street food and snacks unlike anywhere else, as well as charming trinkets, handmade crafts, and one-of-a-kind festival finds. With a wide variety of food options – including plenty that cater to both Muslim and Non-Muslim visitors – everyone is invited to indulge in a festive and inclusive experience that blends Japanese flair with Malaysian hospitality. Each evening is also set to come alive with an opening taiko drum performance, followed by performances such as the iconic Bon Odori dance, a type of Japanese folk-dance tradition performed during the Obon festival. Here are the details for the event: Date: 12th July (Saturday) – 13th July (Sunday) 2025 12th July (Saturday) – 13th July (Sunday) 2025 Time: 4pm – 11pm 4pm – 11pm Venue: Open Car Park, Sunway City Kuala Lumpur The 49th edition of this iconic festival continues its legacy as one of Malaysia's most anticipated annual cultural experiences. And the best part? Admission is completely free! Simply register early for an exclusive hand-fan and festival vouchers to fully immerse yourself in the celebrations – but hurry, the exclusive items are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis!
