Latest news with #BonOdori
The Star
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Spreading joy through Bon Odori
Lively taiko (drum) performances are an important part of Bon Odori. — Photos: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star Some 50,000 visitors thronged the 49th Bon Odori Festival, which was held for the first time in Bandar Sunway, Selangor. 'In Malaysia, the Bon Odori Festival started in 1977 and has grown into an annual occasion which is one of the largest Japanese cultural events here, and possibly one of the largest Bon Odori festivals outside Japan,' said Sunway Malls chief executive officer HC Chan at a press conference. Performers encouraging visitors to get into the Bon Odori spirit. 'Bon Odori is a popular summer festival in Japan involving dancing and music.' Bon Odori took place at the open carpark area opposite Sunway Resort Hotel. Also present were Selangor local government and tourism committee chairman Datuk Ng Suee Lim and Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Shikata Noriyuki. Crowds thronging the venue which had some 150 vendors selling Japanese as well as local food and other goods. Ng said the Bon Odori festival could forge connections between communities across borders by bringing together Malaysians, Japanese expatriates, tourists, students and families. 'A total of 110,018 Japanese tourists visited Selangor in 2023 and the number increased to 132,526 last year. 'This growth not only shows the strong bilateral relationship between Selangor and Japan, but it is also a sign that Selangor is one of the favourite destinations of Japanese tourists,' Ng said. (From left) Ng, Noriyuki and Chan launching the 49th Bon Odori Festival at Bandar Sunway in Selangor. Among the highlights at the festival was 150 booths selling Japanese and local street food, and performances. Noriyuki said the festival was a very special occasion for Japanese people. He said he had noticed a growing interest in Japanese culture among Malaysians. 'The same goes for Japanese people's interest in Malaysia. Visitors dressed for the occasion in colourful yukata. 'The Malaysian pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is very popular,' he said. The festival was jointly organised by Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur, Japanese Embassy in Malaysia, Sunway Group and Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur.
Yomiuri Shimbun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yomiuri Shimbun
Osaka-Kansai Expo Shines with 'Matsuken Samba II' Extravaganza
OSAKA — Actor Ken Matsudaira brought his electrifying performance of the hit song 'Matsuken Samba II' to the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo on Friday, captivating attendees who joined in the singing and dancing. The event took place on Yumeshima, an artificial island in Osaka's Konohana Ward, where the expo is currently being held. The performance served as the grand opening for Osaka Week Summer, an initiative running through Aug. 3, which is aimed at promoting Osaka's vibrant culture and local specialties. With dance as its central theme, this year's Osaka Week promises a spectacular lineup of events. Highlights include an attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the highest number of people of different nationalities participating in a Bon Odori traditional Japanese folk dance and a massive Bon Odori on the Grand Ring, which is expected to draw about 8,000 participants.
The Star
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Cultural evening of song, dance, festivities
THE soft glow of hundreds of lanterns illuminated Penang's Bon Odori celebration, giving this year's event at the Esplanade a deeper meaning. It symbolised the guiding lights of tradition and highlighted the enduring spirit of friendship and togetherness shared by the people of Malaysia and Japan. The lanterns' vibrant colours – pink, red and yellow – also created postcard-worthy scenes that afforded the crowd of thousands, countless photo-taking opportunities. Children giggled as they chased each other beneath the swaying orbs, while families and friends gathered on picnic mats to share food and watch stage performances that kicked off just before sunset. Participants clad in colourful 'yukata', taking selfies at the Esplanade. These included the evocative Bon Odori dance, where participants form a circle and move about in graceful rhythms. Its choreography of simple repetitive steps and hand gestures allowed people of all backgrounds to participate, from Japanese expatriates to locals and children. Also joining in were dignitaries including consul-general of Japan in Penang Shinya Machida and state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai. In his speech, Machida expressed his delight at how the Bon Odori had been warmly embraced and integrated into Penang's cultural scene since the 1990s. He described it as a testament to how cultural exchange could foster lasting friendships across borders – something that is especially important in today's increasingly interconnected world. Visitor Vincent Chuah, 40 (right), taking photos of friend Ice Goh, 30 (left), against the backdrop of lanterns at Penang Bon Odori 2025. There are currently over 3,000 Japanese expatriates living in Penang, many of whom are employees or families of the over 100 Japanese companies operating in the state. 'I would like to thank the people of Penang for welcoming us and all the community members who made this meaningful annual event possible,' Machida added. Hon Wai said the event – now a highlight of the state's annual calendar – was more than just a night of music, dance and food. Rather, it is a reflection of unity, he said. 'Penang is proud of its reputation as an international city, one that has for centuries welcomed people, ideas and cultures from across the world. 'Bon Odori is a powerful expression of this openness. 'From a tradition born in Japan, it has been embraced in Penang and now celebrated together by people of all backgrounds. The crowd on the Esplanade field enjoying food while taking in stage performances. 'This year's theme of 'Akari Bon Odori' which means Festival of Lights, reminds us of this warmth, connection and community. 'It represents the many ways we come together, learn from and appreciate one another, and celebrate the richness of culture,' Hon Wai added. Many festival-goers also came dressed in yukata – thinner, unlined versions of kimono typically worn during the hot summer months – to get in the spirit of the celebration. They included the winner of last year's Miss Penang Bon Odori pageant, Madeline Wong, as well as runners-up Misaki Woo and Angeline Tan. The trio enlivened the occasion with their graceful presence, often stopping to pose for photos with visitors and even stopping to chat with visitors about their experiences. Visitors learning kendo moves from exponents. Madeline, a flight attendant, said the event was something she had always looked forward to annually. As a national karate exponent, she was exposed to Japanese culture from a young age. 'I've been to many Japanese cities and found the people, culture and food amazing. 'I feel privileged to play the role of ambassador and share it with everyone,' she enthused. Her counterparts from the Penang Goshin-Ryu Karate Association were also among the troupes putting on a performance for the public. MacGregor playing the 'shakuhachi' at the event. An aikido demonstration was delivered by the Mushinkan Academy, while shakuhachi (Japanese flute) master Andrew MacGregor impressed with a solo performance. The Studio Pentas Dance Collective also put on a special number titled 'Pulse of the Jewel'. There were dozens of stalls offering games such as the ever-popular goldfish fishing and balloon scooping, as well as workshops on crafts like origami. Towards the end, echoes of the evergreen Rasa Sayang rang out, after which a spectacular fireworks display erupted over the newly restored Fort Cornwallis and brought proceedings to a close.
Malay Mail
18-07-2025
- 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
