• Shimokitazawa Awa Odori 2023

    ByRohan Gillett

    I was finally at Shimokitazawa Awa Odori 2023. After a five-year wait, I was finally back. The sound of taiko drums echoed through the narrow streets I hadn’t walked on since 2018. This wasn’t just any festival but an explosion of noise, color, tradition, dance and music. For a photographer, it was a dream and…

  • Shimokitazawa Awa Odori Photography Guide

    ByRohan Gillett

    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…

  • Koenji Awa Odori 2025

    ByRohan Gillett

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See my full disclosure here. I did something different for Koenji Awa Odori 2025. Until this time, I shot all of them along Konan Street. I got good shots there, and while it was crowded, I could always find a place to shoot. There was never…

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    Koenji Awa Odori 2024 Recap

    ByRohan Gillett

    Every August, Koenji celebrates one of Japan’s most spirited traditions: the Awa Odori. Bringing the 400-year-old dance festival from its home in Tokushima Prefecture to the streets of the capital, the event sees the area around the station erupt in a frenzy of music and color. This is no small street fair. It’s Tokyo’s biggest…

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    Koenji Awa Odori Guide

    ByRohan Gillett

    Tokyo Snapped is supported by its readers. As an Amazon and Klook Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. [Full Disclosure]. Every August, the streets of Koenji erupt in a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and tradition. The Koenji Awa Odori is Tokyo’s largest dance festival, a spectacular event that brings…