The world is full of amazing street parties, music festivals and carnivals! In Japan, there's this – the AWA ODORI. It's held annually in Tokushima and it's historically -- a big drunken dance party in the streets! That's right, Samurai were even banned from joining in 1671 because they were continually disgracing themselves. (It was for their own protection.) Tokushima is known for its love of dance and drinking, the jolliest place in Japan!

And this time, that's where John is -- TOKUSHIMA!

In this episode, we'll get a glimpse at this amazing street party and a few other attractions in the area.

Also watch this in Virtual Reality 360 on the new ONLY in JAPAN 360 channel: https://www.youtube.com/ONLYinJAPAN360

About the AWAODORI:
It takes place from August 12 to 15 every year.
The parade and dancing starts at 6pm to 8pm.
After that, the people take it to the streets where impromptu dancing takes place all over. There are plenty of street food stands and izakaya in the area to keep you full and happy.

Attractions featured in this video:
★ Naruto Wirlpools
★ Otsuka Art Museum / http://o-museum.or.jp/english/
★ Onaruto Bridge / http://www.uzunomichi.jp/english/
★ Tokushima Ramen
★ Awa Puppet Theater / http://joruri.info/jurobe/english/

Do you want to JOIN the AWAODORI / Awa Dance during the parade?
The group for the general public is called the NIWAKA REN
Anyone can join and dance!
Get there around 6:30pm for the start where they will teach you how to do the dance and a few chants.
Meeting point: Shimin Hiroba (Civic Square) in front of Tokushima City Hall and near the beginning of the Higashishinmachi Shopping Arcade, Shinmachibashi-dori Street

Contact information: 088-622-4010 (Tokushima City Tourism Association)

Google Map:
Tokushima & the Awaodori Kaikan Building
https://goo.gl/maps/RpPRvRquBq12

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This show has been created and produced by John Daub ジョン・ドーブ. He's been living and working in Japan for over 18 years and regularly reports on TV for Japan's International Channel.