Written by Greg Lane
Researched by Alexandra Ziminski
The Bon Odori (Bon Dance) festival held annually at Nakano Central Park attracts huge numbers of revellers. Luckily, the park is big, so there is plenty of space to spread out.
What happens?
The Nakano Bon Odori is a little different to regular Bon Odori festivals. The major difference is that there is a main stage with highly varied live acts and DJs playing from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.
The festival also incorporates folk songs ranging from the very local Nakano Ondo to songs from other parts of Japan.
What’s the Bon Jovi connection?
In the years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, videos of the festival went viral when attendees danced and sang along to Bon Jovi song “Living on a Prayer” — a not very complicated joke because Bon Jovi has “bon” in its name.
In return, Bon Jovi sent a video message, which can be viewed online, if you feel so inclined.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 422 m from Nakano Station Tozai Line (T1)Chūō Line (Rapid) (JC6)Chūō-Sōbu Line (JB33)
- 1.1 km from Higashi-kōenji Station Marunouchi Line (M4)
- 1.1 km from Kōenji Station Chūō Line (Rapid) (JC7)Chūō-Sōbu Line (JB34)
