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.
Suggested Activity
Sumo Morning Practice Tour at Stable in Tokyo
Try this insider’s experience at a sumo wrestler morning practice session. Enjoy exclusive access to a sumo stable, watching as these massive athletes put themselves through their daily training regimen and go head-to-head.
Bon Jovi
In the years prior to the 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.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.Early
Aug
中野駅前大盆踊り大会
Free
Official site
⚠️ Link in Japanese
- 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)
Typical weather at this time:
High: 35 ºC
Low: 25 ºC
