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盆踊り

bon'odori
noun★Intermediate💡 Bon Odori festival dance

“夏になると、盆踊りが各地で開催されます。”

When summer comes, Bon Odori dances are held in various places.

cultural

A traditional Japanese folk dance performed during the Bon festival to honor the spirits of ancestors.

お盆には故郷で盆踊りに参加します。

During Obon, I participate in Bon Odori dances in my hometown.

💡

Often accompanied by taiko drums and traditional music. Participants dance in a circle around a yagura (tower).

Collocations

盆踊り大会Bon Odori festival盆踊りを踊るto dance Bon Odori盆踊りの音楽Bon Odori music

Synonyms

盆の舞お盆の踊り

Related Phrases

お盆phrase
Buddhist festival honoring ancestors (Obon)
精霊流しphrase
floating lanterns ceremony during Obon

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

Bon Odori is not just a dance but a communal activity symbolizing unity and remembrance. Participants wear yukata (summer kimono) and dance to simple, repetitive songs.

⚡Gold Rule

Seasonal Timing

Bon Odori is typically held in mid-August, aligning with Obon. Check local schedules as dates vary by region.

📖Word Origin

Combines '盆' (bon, meaning 'tray' or 'Buddhist festival') and '踊り' (odori, meaning 'dance'). The festival originates from Buddhist traditions to honor ancestral spirits.

📝Usage Notes

Primarily performed during Obon (mid-August), a Japanese Buddhist custom to welcome ancestral spirits. Modern events are social gatherings with food stalls and games.

Word Breakdown

盆
Buddhist festival or tray
root
+
踊り
dance
root
和英辞典

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Words of the Year

The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.