Located at the base of Mount Bizan in Tokushima City, Shikoku, the Awa Odori Kaikan (阿波おどり会館) is a cultural complex dedicated to the Awa Odori Dance, one of Japan’s most famous and energetic traditional performing arts.
Here, visitors can not only watch professional dance performances, but also join in the dancing themselves, explore exhibitions, shop for local crafts, and take a ropeway ride to the scenic summit of Mount Bizan.
The Spirit of Awa Odori
Awa Odori, meaning “Awa Dance” (Awa is the old name for Tokushima), has a history of over 400 years. Originating during the feudal era as a lively celebration of the Obon Festival, it’s now one of Japan’s largest and most colorful dance events.
Every August, more than 1 million visitors gather in Tokushima for the Awa Odori Festival, where groups of dancers known as “ren” fill the streets with rhythmic movement, laughter, and the iconic chant:
“Odoru ahou ni miru ahou, onaji ahou nara odoranya son son!”
“Fools who dance and fools who watch—if both are fools, you might as well dance!”
The Awa Odori Kaikan allows visitors to experience this joyful spirit year-round, even outside the festival season.
What to See and Do
The Awa Odori Kaikan is a multi-story cultural facility, combining entertainment, history, and scenic experiences all in one place.
1F – Performance Hall: Live Awa Odori Shows
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Professional dance troupes known as “Awa-no-Kaze” perform daily shows featuring both traditional and modern Awa Odori styles.
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Visitors are invited to join the dancers on stage, learn basic moves, and feel the rhythm of taiko drums, shamisen, and flutes.
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English explanations are available, and the atmosphere is lively and inclusive — perfect for first-timers.
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Performances are held four to five times a day, depending on the season.
2F – Awa Odori Museum
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This floor showcases the history, costumes, and instruments of the Awa Odori tradition.
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Learn about the evolution of the dance from Edo-period street celebrations to today’s organized performances.
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Exhibits include authentic festival costumes, masks, traditional geta sandals, and videos of past festivals.
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Interactive displays allow visitors to listen to festival music and try virtual dancing.
5F – Mount Bizan Ropeway Station
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The Awa Odori Kaikan connects directly to the Bizan Ropeway, which takes you to the summit of Mount Bizan (about 6 minutes).
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From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tokushima City, the Yoshino River, and even the Seto Inland Sea on clear days.
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At night, the city lights below create a romantic atmosphere — perfect for couples and photographers.
Shopping & Dining
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Souvenir Shop (1F): Offers a wide range of local products, including Awa indigo-dyed crafts, Awa Odori-themed goods, regional sake, and traditional snacks.
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Café / Restaurant: Serves Tokushima specialties such as Sudachi citrus dishes, Tokushima ramen, and Awa beef.
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Local Handicrafts: You can also find hand-made taiko drum miniatures and dance fans as keepsakes.
Events and Special Activities
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Hands-On Awa Odori Lessons: Available for groups or individuals upon request (advance booking recommended).
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Photo Opportunities: Dress in a traditional dancer’s outfit for a memorable souvenir photo.
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Seasonal Exhibits: During the summer, special exhibitions and festival previews are held leading up to the main Awa Odori Festival (Aug 12–15).
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Night Performances: Evening shows recreate the festive atmosphere of Tokushima’s summer streets.
Visitor Information
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Address: 2-20 Shinmachi-bashi, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan
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Access:
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10-minute walk from JR Tokushima Station
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Local buses also stop nearby
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Opening Hours:
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Museum: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Live Shows: typically at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and evening (times may vary by season)
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Admission:
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Museum: ¥300 (adults)
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Performance + Museum combo: ¥800–1,000 (varies by time)
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Closed: Second Wednesday of each month and year-end holidays
Tips for Visitors
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Arrive early for live shows — seating can fill quickly, especially on weekends.
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Bring your camera — the vivid costumes and expressive dance movements make for stunning photos.
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Combine your visit with a ropeway ride to Mount Bizan for a complete cultural and scenic experience.
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The museum and performances are family-friendly, suitable for all ages.
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English brochures and audio guides are available.
Why You Should Visit
The Awa Odori Kaikan is more than just a museum — it’s a living celebration of joy, rhythm, and tradition.
Here, you don’t just watch Japanese culture; you become part of it.
Whether you clap along to the beat, try a few dance steps yourself, or take in the festival atmosphere from the stage, you’ll leave smiling and energized.
A visit to Tokushima isn’t complete without experiencing the lively heart of Awa Odori, where the spirit of “Dance, laugh, and celebrate life” continues all year round.
Related articles
Official Website
https://shikoku-tourism.com/en/see-and-do/10030
Accommodation sites
Agoda
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