The History and Evolution of Bon Odori

Bon Odori, a traditional event that colors Japanese summers, has a long history, with its origins and significance evolving over time. It is believed to have started in the mid-Heian period with Kuya Shonin’s “Nembutsu Odori,” which was later incorporated into the Buddhist event of Urabon-e. By the Muromachi period, it was embraced by many commoners, and in the Edo period, entertainment elements were added, giving rise to diverse regional characteristics.

However, in the Meiji period, it was banned in some areas from the perspective of maintaining social order. In particular, in Gifu Prefecture, it was regulated for disrupting public morals, yet the common people endeavored to preserve this culture. Such restrictions influenced local uniqueness, leading to different evolutions across regions.

Even today, its religious and cultural significance is passed down, and despite cancellations due to external factors like the novel coronavirus, many regions are showing movements towards revival. Bon Odori is more than just a festival; it is an important reflection of Japanese spirituality and cultural background.

The Origins and Historical Background of Bon Odori

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese summer event, tracing its origins back to the mid-Heian period. It is said to have begun with the “Nembutsu Odori” by the monk Kuya Shonin, who danced while chanting prayers with a gourd in hand. This Nembutsu Odori became associated with the ancestral memorial service of Urabon-e, becoming widely known as “Bon Odori.”

In the Muromachi period, it spread among the common people while retaining its character as a Buddhist event. By the Edo period, it shifted from its religious aspect to entertainment, with different forms and music emerging in each region, leading to diverse styles.

Social Changes in the Meiji Period and the Ban on Bon Odori

After the Meiji Restoration, Japan rapidly promoted Westernization and established a new national system, significantly impacting traditional culture. A notable focus was the ban on Bon Odori in regions like Gifu Prefecture. At the time, Bon Odori, already seen as a moral issue in urban areas, was considered a rebellion against social order in rural areas.

In Gifu Prefecture, it was regulated as a disturbance of public morals under the “Local Ordinance on Improper Conduct” promulgated in 1873 (Meiji 6). This was part of a social structural reform aimed at Westernization, monitoring the daily lives and recreational activities of the common people. Despite strict enforcement by local governments, people continued to gather secretly, striving to preserve its significance.

Attempts at Revival During the Taisho and Showa Periods

In the 1920s, under the influence of Taisho Democracy, Japanese society began to embrace cultural diversity. Riding this wave, Bon Odori became popular again in some regions. Notably, in 1922, during the celebration of Emperor Taisho’s enthronement, it was revived as a large-scale celebratory event nationwide.

From the early Showa period to the post-war reconstruction period, it was reevaluated for its role in healing people’s minds and bodies. As Japan entered a period of economic growth post-war, the tourism industry also developed, and it began to be utilized as a tourism resource in various regions. However, even during this time, it continued to be regulated in some areas under the guise of maintaining public morals.

Impact and Challenges in Modern Society

In recent years, the unprecedented situation of the novel coronavirus pandemic has led to cancellations or downsizing in many regions. As a result, important aspects such as opportunities for interaction and community building are being lost. However, efforts to pass down the culture through new forms like online platforms are also being seen.

In modern society, there are various challenges such as the declining birthrate and aging population, and depopulation due to urban concentration. Therefore, it is actively being considered for use in regional revitalization strategies and measures to promote young people to settle. There is an increasing trend in reports of more vibrant events planned for this year and beyond, with expectations for further development.

When Did Bon Odori Begin?

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese event, with origins tracing back to the Kamakura period. During this time, the “Odori Nembutsu” spread by Ippen Shonin is considered its source. It began as a religious dance with monks forming a circle and chanting prayers. Today, it is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and is held across Japan during the summer Obon period.

Why Is Bon Odori Sometimes Canceled?

Reasons for the Cancellation of Bon Odori can be varied. Firstly, from the perspective of safety and maintaining public order, it is to prevent accidents or troubles in crowded places. Additionally, in recent years, cancellations or downsizing have been seen as measures against the novel coronavirus. Other factors include labor shortages or financial issues in some regions.

Why Is It Performed in a Circle?

The reason Bon Odori is performed in a circle is due to the format known as “Wa Odori.” This format creates a sense of unity and is easy for anyone to participate in. Additionally, from a religious perspective, it serves as a place to express gratitude and memorialize ancestors. Thanks to this traditional style, many people can participate and enjoy it.

Can Foreign Tourists Participate?

Yes, in many cases, participation is possible. Many Bon Odori events held across Japan are open to the public. Recently, it has become popular among foreign tourists, offering an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese culture. However, some regions have unique rules and customs, so please be mindful of those.

What Changes Are Expected in the Future?

In the future, new forms such as integration with digital technology may be considered.

For example, virtual participation through online streaming or interactive elements using AR technology. This could lead to approaches to a more diverse audience and strengthen global outreach. On the other hand, attention is focused on how such changes will affect the original aspect of community building.

Summary

Exploring the history and reasons for the cancellation of Bon Odori reveals various factors.

However, behind it always lies the relationship with local communities and harmony with modern society.

As a Japanese culture that we hope will continue unchanged, it is something we want to cherish and preserve.

The Evolution and Significance of Bon Odori

Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese event, is believed to have originated from the “Nembutsu Odori” started by Kuya Shonin in the mid-Heian period, developing as a Buddhist event. In the Muromachi period, it spread among the common people, and in the Edo period, entertainment elements were added, creating diverse styles in each region. However, in the Meiji period, it was banned in some areas from the perspective of maintaining social order. In particular, in Gifu Prefecture, it was regulated for disrupting public morals, yet the common people endeavored to preserve the culture secretly.

During the Taisho and Showa periods, movements towards revival were seen again, especially in the 1920s during the Taisho Democracy period, when it became popular in some regions amid a trend of embracing cultural diversity. As Japan as a whole entered a period of economic growth post-war, it began to be utilized as a tourism resource.

In modern times, there are challenges such as cancellations or downsizing due to the novel coronavirus, but it is being passed down in new forms using online platforms. Additionally, it is being utilized as a regional revitalization strategy while addressing modern societal challenges such as the declining birthrate, aging population, and depopulation due to urban concentration. From this background, Bon Odori is more than just a festival; it is an important reflection of Japanese spirituality and cultural background.