By akkz01
This immersive 4K evening walk takes viewers through the annual Gujo Odori festival held in the Aoyama Gaienmae area of Tokyo. The video captures the 29th Gujo Odori in Aoyama, offering a unique look at how this traditional summer dance festival is celebrated against the urban backdrop, specifically on the grounds of the Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium parking lot in Minato-ku’s Kita-Aoyama neighborhood.
Starting near Gaienmae Station, the footage highlights local landmarks including Gaienmae Hiroba, Stadium Street, and brings you directly into the vibrant festival atmosphere. The Gujo Odori, originally a centuries-old bon-odori event from Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture, is famous for its inviting, participatory style, with dances like the “Kawasaki,” “Sanbyaku,” “Harukoma,” and “Yattchiku” performed outdoors as the sun sets. The joyful sounds of music and rhythmically synchronized movements under Tokyo’s twilight sky create an authentic summer atmosphere.
Throughout the festival, visitors and locals join in the dance circle, expressing the true spirit of Japanese community and celebration. The video also covers the Gujo regional product exhibition (Gujo Bussan-ten), where you can sample unique foods, crafts, and specialties from Gujo, connecting Tokyoites with regional culture. As night falls, the area lights up, and the festival transforms into a lively yet traditional scene, showcasing one of Japan’s most beloved bon-odori events in an urban setting.
Aoyama itself is a fashionable district in Minato Ward, known for its tree-lined avenues and blend of modern architecture with cultural spots. Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium (秩父宮ラグビー場) regularly hosts major sporting and community events and is conveniently located for both locals and visitors exploring central Tokyo. This festival walk provides a real-time experience of both the festivities and everyday urban Tokyo during early summer.