Takada Kanko Bon Dance Festival
The Takada Kanko Bon Dance Festival, or the Takada Kanko Bon Odori Taikai as it’s known locally, is held annually on August 18. It revolves around the Kusaji Odori, a local dance which originated in the Edo period (1603–1868) as a pastime for farmers living under the rule of Yoshimune (1684–1751), the eighth Tokugawa shogun, who encouraged a simple and frugal lifestyle through the Kyoho Reforms. A performance consists of four dances that vary in style and musical tempo. In the more feminine first half of the performance, performers wear a yukata (casual summer kimono), while holding a fan and dancing elegantly, while in the more masculine second half, the performers wear shorts and a happi (lightweight, straight-sleeved coat) for a livelier routine.
Kusaji Odori performances run on the evening of August 18, with over 30 groups competing to win prizes, and the festival concludes with a performance by the members of the Kusaji Odori Preservation Society. Residents of all ages turn out for the lively outdoor festival wearing yukata and happi coats. The energetic atmosphere rubs off on the audience members, some of whom jump in and participate.