Tokushima Awa Odori
MatsuriShikoku(Tokushima)
Annual eventDates
2026-08-12 — 2026-08-15
Venue
Tokushima City Center (Shinmachi River area)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowdedThe original Awa Odori in Tokushima attracting over 1 million spectators.
Tokushima Awa Odori is the largest and most famous Awa Odori festival in Japan, attracting over 1.3 million visitors during the four-day event. Teams of dancers (ren) perform energetic choreographed dances through the streets to the rhythmic chants and music of shamisen, taiko drums, and flutes. The festival's motto is "Dancing fools and watching fools — if both are fools, you might as well dance!"
Highlights
Hundreds of dance troupes (ren) performing energetic Awa Odori through the streets; Audience participation dancing in designated areas; Evening performances under colorful lantern-lit stages
Access
JR Tokushima Station is the main access point, right in the festival area. From Osaka/Kobe, take the highway bus (about 2.5 hours). Tokushima Awaodori Airport also serves the city.
Tips for Visitors
Paid seating (enbujo) offers the best views and can be reserved in advance. Free viewing areas are also available but fill up early. Join the niwaka-ren (impromptu dance groups) to participate yourself. Book accommodation months in advance.