Double-check dates
They change every year in some places.
At the Awa Odori, dance like no one’s watching
The chant “Yoi, Yoi, Yoi” doesn’t mean anything, but it’s fun to say.
Honor the past
Pay respects to your ancestors, and light a candle lantern in remembrance.
A Tokushima alternative
Tokyo’s Kōenji area has a smaller Awa dance festival.
Celebrate at home
Japanese immigrants in the U.S. and Europe have spread this tradition abroad, so there’s a good chance you can catch it in your hometown.