Featured Events in Tokushima in August 2025 (August Updated)

The Tokushima Awa Odori is considered by many to be Japan's top summer festival. It takes place in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. The dance festival ("odori" means dance) has its roots in the summertime Obon Festival. Awa Matsuri was the name of the area where Tokushima City was located before the Meiji era. The festival is known for its boisterous and drunken atmosphere, and over the years, a unique dance style has evolved. Male and female dancers, each dressed in a unique style, often dance individually or in large, choreographed groups. Many female dancers wear distinctive hats shaped like folded tortillas made from tatami mats. During the festival, the streets of downtown Tokushima are closed to traffic each evening. Dance performances take place on the streets (free of charge in areas such as Ryogoku Honmachi Shopping Street) as well as on various stages and venues with reserved seating. The main dance performances run from the 12th to the 15th, but an evening performance will be held on the evening of the 11th.