Bringing People Together. Reviving Traditions. Reenergizing Communities.
We support the launch, revival, and long-term continuation of Bon Odori festivals.
ASE supports communities looking to launch new Bon Odori festivals or revive traditional festivals that are no longer held.
We also help make existing Bon Odori festivals more accessible and easier to participate in.
From arranging dance instructors and performers to organizing practice sessions, selecting music, reviewing choreography, and managing the event itself,
we provide flexible support tailored to each community's needs and circumstances.
For communities planning to revive or launch Bon Odori festivals,
we offer three approaches tailored to local challenges, goals, and circumstances.
Is Your Community Facing These Challenges?
- Attendance at local Bon Odori festivals has declined.
- Fewer people are available to pass on traditional drumming techniques.
- Local residents are less motivated to participate in community events.
- Community events are difficult to sustain over time.
- We are looking for ways to bring new energy to our community.
Making Bon Odori a Lasting Part of Community Life
- Creating a focal point for the community
- Giving people more reasons to visit and return
- Encouraging ongoing community participation
- Making dance and physical activity part of everyday life
Bon Odori should be more than just a one-time event.
By establishing Bon Odori as a central part of community life, we create more reasons for people to gather, return, and stay connected through everyday activities.
We believe that lasting success requires a sustainable approach built through collaboration among local governments, businesses, and residents.
Three Plans Tailored to Your Community
We propose practical approaches based on local needs, whether you want to revive a traditional festival, launch a new event, or establish an ongoing community tradition.
◼︎ Plan 1: Establish a Community Foundation
Revival & New Beginnings
This plan focuses on reviving traditional local dances or establishing new Bon Odori festivals.
We help preserve local dances and music while developing a Bon Odori festival that can become a lasting part of the community's cultural identity.
◼︎ Plan 2: Create Reasons to Visit
Tourism, Local Spending & Community Connections
This plan connects Bon Odori with dining, shopping, and tourism to encourage visitors to explore and support the local community.
By bringing together local businesses, tourist attractions, and regional products, we create opportunities for people to gather and engage with the area.
◼︎ Plan 3: Promote Health & Everyday Connections
Health & Community Connections
By incorporating Bon Odori into everyday activities, we create enjoyable opportunities for people to stay physically active.
This approach supports health promotion while strengthening connections among local residents.
It can also be adapted for neighborhood associations, community programs, and activities for older adults.
How ASE Supports Bon Odori Festivals
ASE offers the following services to help communities launch, revive, and sustain Bon Odori festivals:
- Bon Odori festival planning and organization
- Arrangement of Bon Odori dance instructors
- Organization of dance practice sessions
- On-site event coordination and management
- Arrangement of dancers and event staff
- Music selection, choreography review, and planning tailored to local needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I request only Bon Odori dance instructors?
A. Yes. We can arrange dance instructors alone or provide additional support, such as practice sessions, pre-event instruction, and on-site event assistance.
Q. Can you help us plan a new Bon Odori festival from the beginning?
A. Yes. We can support the entire planning process, including music selection, rehearsal planning, staffing, and event-day management.
Q. Can you help revive traditional Bon Odori dances that are no longer performed in our community?
A. Yes. Using available local records and the memories of community members,
we help reconstruct dance movements and plan how the event can be organized, working together to develop a practical approach for reviving the tradition.
Q. Can you provide Bon Odori programs for schools and commercial venues?
A. Yes. We offer programs suitable for children, beginners, and international participants.
We adjust the content to suit the participants and the venue.
For inquiries about launching or reviving Bon Odori festivals, arranging instructors or performers, or incorporating Bon Odori into community events,
please use the contact form below.