With summer comes festival season in Japan, a time of vibrant celebrations and community gatherings. A specific type of summer event, Bon Odori, brings communities together to dance and celebrate the season. We brought Coco to experience her first Bon dance, allowing her to learn and enjoy the matsuri - or festival life in Japan. Festivals typically harbor many activities, creating a lively atmosphere filled with traditional customs and modern entertainment. Vendors from around town offer a wide array of traditional eats, games, music, and more, making these events a feast for the senses.

Food Delights

Some of the delectable treats that can be expected at a Japanese summer festival include:

• Dango: A dumpling made from glutinous rice flour, shaped into rounds with 3 to 5 pieces on a skewer. Known as kushi-dango, they are often served with sugar, syrup, or sweet red bean paste. Cho-oshi (delicious)!
• Kakigori: Japanese shaved ice with a much smoother and fluffier consistency than traditional shaved ice. It's topped with condensed milk, fruits, and flavored syrups for a refreshing burst of flavor.

• Yakisoba: Fried noodles with vegetables and meat, a savory staple at festivals.
• Takoyaki: Round, savory pancake-style batter filled with octopus, a popular festival snack.
• Watame: Cotton candy, a sweet treat enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Fun and Games

These games are a hit for kids and adults, providing entertainment and chances to win prizes:

• Kingyo sukui (Goldfish scooping): Try to catch goldfish using a delicate paper scoop.
• Super ball scooping: Similar to goldfish scooping, but with bouncy balls.
• Wanage (Ring toss): Test your aim by throwing rings onto targets. Decorate this simple version of it to play at home!
• Shooting games: Use toy guns to hit targets and win prizes.
• Yo-yo tsuri (Fishing yo-yo): "Fish" for water-filled balloons using a hook and paper string. Recreate this DIY game at home!

• Katanuki: Cut intricate shapes out of thin candy using a small needle.

Music and Dance

The heart of any Bon festival is the music and dance, which brings the community together in joyous celebration:

• Bon Odori: Traditional folk dances performed in a circle around a raised platform (yagura). Each region may have its own unique dance styles and music.
• Awa Odori: A famous dance originating from Tokushima Prefecture, known for its energetic movements and distinctive music.

These summer festivals, with their mix of traditional customs and modern fun, offer a unique glimpse into Japanese culture. They provide an opportunity for both locals and visitors to come together, enjoy delicious food, participate in entertaining games, and experience the rhythmic joy of traditional dances. Whether you're trying your hand at goldfish scooping or savoring the sweet taste of dango, these matsuri create lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Our Family Summer Festival

This year we had the opportunity to bring our girls to their first festival! It is common for girls to wear a traditional Yukata. Coco donned her pink yukata with flowers with some pink (non-traditional!) crocs to match.

Coco, Sachi, Jess, and Sora (hitched a ride!) danced to their best abilities. Coco's dance moves brought laughter and joy to everyone around her.

After dancing, Coco enjoyed playing games and eating kakigori (shaved ice). 

Since we were on the go we brought along our COCOWALK bib for Coco to wear while eating and the Ten-I Muhou elephant rattle to keep Sora soothed and occupied.

We can't wait until next year when Sora is able to walk and join in on the festivities!

At CocoTora, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, Japanese-made baby accessories that embody superior craftsmanship and timeless artistry. We prioritize sustainability with eco-friendly materials, ensuring our products are both exceptional and environmentally friendly. Our commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction drives us to personally vet each brand and inspect every product.