Every August, the Shimokitazawa Awa Odori brings energy, dance, and music to Tokyo’s summer. It’s one of my favorite night events in the city. The locals turn out in droves to provide a festival with an incredible, welcoming atmosphere. I often look back at the photos I took in 2023, and they always remind me why this is such a fantastic family event. If you’re thinking of going, here’s a little taste of what makes it so special.
A brief history of the Awa Odori
Awa Odori comes from Tokushima Prefecture (formerly called Awa). There are several theories about its origin, some say it evolved from other folk dances. One story says the daimyo Hachisuka Iemasa, threw a big party upon the completion of Tokushima castle in 1587. Allegedly, the people drank so much sake they started dancing the streets, giving origin to the event.
Nowadays many other cities in Japan hold their own Awa Odori festival so you might catch one if you visit Japan in summer. And if you can’t get enough, head to the Koenji Awa Odori (guide here) which is traditionally held the following weekend.
The atmosphere of Shimokitazawa
What makes the Shimokitazawa Awa Odori so special is its intimate atmosphere. Unlike larger, more sprawling events, this one snakes through the narrow, famously trendy streets of the neighborhood, putting you right in the middle of the action.
Planning your visit
Photography tips
- The streets are dark and narrow, so take the fastest lenses you have.
- Lighting conditions can change depending on your position. Setting your ISO might make things easier for you.
- Due to the confines of the streets, the dancers will be upon you quickly, so use burst mode to get as many images as you can.
- The dancer’s movements can be fast, so keep an eye on your shutter speed. You might even want to use a slower speed to get some intentional blur.
- If you need to change position, wait for a break in the dancing to speed to your next spot.
- Don’t use a flash as this can blind the performers.
- Due to space restrictions, don’t take a tripod.
When is the Shimokitazwa Awa Odori?
For 2026, it will be held on August 22 (Saturday) and 23 (Sunday) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For the latest information, consult the official Shimokitazawa Awa Odori website.
Getting there
Shimokitazawa Station is served by the Odakyu and Keio-Inokashira Lines.
“What to take” checklist
This checklist is pretty much the same as Koenji Awa Odori, except for one exception:
- A fan (uchiwa or sensu): Essential for the late-August humidity. If you forget it, don’t worry too much, as Awa Odori staff often hand them out.
- A drink: To stay hydrated.
- A small towel or handkerchief: For sweat.
- A portable battery: For your phone, as you’ll be taking lots of pictures and videos.
- Don’t take a plastic sheet, small folding stool, or chair of any type as there is no place to put them.
Spectator etiquette
- Be mindful of space: The route for the Shimokitazawa Awa Odori is cramped, space is at a premium. Be considerate of those around you.
- Keep pathways clear: Don’t block access for festival staff or emergency services.
- Dispose of trash properly which means take everything home with you.
Festival food and local eats
While everyone goes to see the Awa Odori, the event is also great for foodies. Keep an eye out for street food vendors (yatai) selling festival classics like yakisoba and takoyaki. For a sit-down meal, the area around Shimokitazawa Station is paradise. It’s famous for its izakayas and restaurants. Visit them before or after the main procession.
Shimokitazawa Awa Odori photo stories
Is the Shimokitazawa Awa Odori worth it?
Absolutely yes! The crowds can be deep but with the smaller streets, the atmosphere is more intimate too. The dancers will be literally at the end of your lens in some places. You’ll be chatting to the person next to you during the breaks. It is a fun night out in Tokyo. To top everything off, Shimokitazawa is great for a night out. If you are an Awa Odori lover, check out this event.
