What it is
The Kōenji Awa Odori began in 1957 as a way to liven up a local shopping street. Its organizers borrowed the dance of the Awa Odori in Tokushima, and it has grown into one of Tokyo’s biggest summer events.
On the last weekend of August, dance groups from Kōenji, Tokushima and across Japan perform through the streets around the station. It is an easy way to see a great festival dance without leaving Tokyo.
The festival at a glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Saturday and Sunday, evening | Dance parade: Dance groups perform along several streets around the station |
Which day should you go?
Either evening
Arrive by late afternoon and pick a street near the station.
What to look for
The ren
Around 150 dance groups, each with its own costumes and band.
The neighborhood
Kōenji is a laid-back area of vintage shops, bars and live music venues.
The chant
The same cry as in Tokushima: “If we're all fools, why not dance?”
Getting there & where to stay
| From | How | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | JR Chūō Line to Kōenji | about 6 min |
| Tokyo Station | JR Chūō Line to Kōenji | about 25 min |
On the day. The dancing fills the streets right outside Kōenji Station from about 17:00 to 20:00 on Saturday and Sunday.
Crowds. Around a million people come over two nights. The station gets very busy; arrive early.
Where to stay
Shinjuku
Many hotels, about 6 minutes from Kōenji.
Nakano and Kōenji
Quieter neighbourhoods with smaller hotels.
When to book. Booking 1 month ahead is usually enough.
Times are typical fastest routes. Check current timetables before you travel.
Practical tips
- Crowds. About a million people come over two days. Trains and streets near the station are packed.
- Dates. Held on the last weekend of August. The organizers announce dates in early summer.
Glossary
Ren連
A dance group at an Awa Odori festival, with its own costumes and band.
Matsuri祭り
A Japanese festival, usually held for the kami of a local shrine. The word comes from the idea of serving and entertaining the gods.
References
- Suginami City: Tokyo Kōenji Awa Odori, https://www.city.suginami.tokyo.jp/s033/event/21345.html
Last checked 2026-10-12.