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A	wa odori
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There are three different theories about the origins of the Awa Dance. One is that it is a version of the Bon Odori, a dance performed in summer throughout Japan. Another is that it began from a celebration of the completion of Tokushima Castle when Hachisuka lemasa provided sake for the townspeople who got drunk and began to dance with abandon. The Awa Dance features organized teams of dancers, which is suggested to have been influenced by "Furyu"-a performance art from the Heian period that later became Noh. The third theory is from the Miyoshi district records. In 1663 there was a yu dance at Shozui Castle which is considered to be the origin of the Awa Dance. In the 1920s the dance festival became organized to attract tourism and was named "Awa Odori." Every August 12th to 15th the streets of Tokushima teem with high-spirited folks enjoying a festival atmosphere.

Awa Odori Dance Festival
The Awa Dance is held in the city of Tokushima using the main downtown streets as a stage. It starts in the evening (6:00 p.m.) and the dancing lasts until 10:30 p.m. The main performances are held on outdoor dance stages or strips built in the downtown parks and streets. Eight are on stages, four in plazas, two along roads, and six at streetcorner spaces.
The Awa Dance is held not only in the city of Tokushima but also in Naruto, Ikeda, Kamojima, Sadamitsu, and other locales in the prefecture. All of Tokushima prefecture catches the summer fever when it comes to Awa Odori.
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Tokushima city dates: August 12-15
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Information: Tel:088-653-9670
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The Best of Awa Odori
Enjoy an exquisite performance by a leading dance group.
The particularly gorgeous performance on the 11th is not to be missed.
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Date: Aug. 11-15
Time: 13:00-16:00
Entrance fee: 1,500yen(same price on 11th)
Information: Tel:088-653-9670
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Awa Odori Kaikan
This museum is dedicated to the world-famous Awa Dance, and opened in July 1999. Learn about the history of the dance, and even learn the dance itself! There is lots to enjoy here.

Niwakaren
As the song goes:"You're a fool to dance and a fool to watch, so you may as well dance, ha ha!" No reservations required. Come as you are, and jump right in! Get a quick lesson from folks in famous teams, then take your turn in the spotlight.
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Tokushima city dates: August 12-15(daily for 4 days)
Times: 18:30 and 20:30(two dances)
Location: Tokushima City Hall Shimin Hiroba, Higashi Shinmachi shopping arcade entrance
Information: Tel:088-653-9670
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