Gujo Odori has been held for over 400 years in Yahata-cho, Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. It is the longest-running Bon Odori dance in Japan, lasting 30 nights between mid-July and early September. During the Edo period, the lord of the castle gathered the Bon Odori dances that were being performed in villages within the domain to the castle town in order to promote harmony between the samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants. He encouraged everyone to "dance without distinction of social status during the four days of Bon," and so the Gujo Odori dance became a dance that anyone could dance, and tourists can also join in the dancing.

Gujo's hospitality allows even first-timers to participate

There are 10 types of Gujo Odori. These are dances that were passed down in various villages in the Gujo domain during the Edo period. In 1996, all 10 songs were designated as Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan. In 2022, "Furyu Odori," which includes the Gujo Odori, was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Even if you are dancing on the spot, you can dance while looking at the people around you, and even if you are dancing with someone you've never seen before, the people around you won't feel uncomfortable. It has also been introduced in various places and online.

You can watch live performances of the dance at the Gujo Hachiman Expo Center. At the Gujo Hachiman Old Government Memorial Hall, you can take lessons in Gujo Odori. You can also prepare beforehand and take part in the performance. Also, if you learn the background and history of the lyrics that are introduced at the same time, the dance will be even more enjoyable.

Gujo Odori Dance Connects People

It is said that Gujo Odori started as a way to encourage dancing as a way to foster unity and friendship within the town. Dancing brings stability and peace to people's hearts, and it is said that friendships and affection have often been fostered through the Gujo Odori. The communication that comes from dancing together, rather than through conversation, creates a sense of camaraderie that is hard to find anywhere else.

During the all-night dance from August 13th to 16th, changing rooms will be set up at Gujo Hachiman Town Communication Center and other locations, and a shuttle bus will run from the temporary parking lot (Hachiman Junior High School) to near the venue. In addition, nearby schools and facilities will be used as temporary parking lots (for a fee), and a perfect system will be in place to pick you up.

The atmosphere is welcoming to anyone, no matter what they're wearing, and makes you want to lose track of time and dance all night long. During the Gujo Odori festival, the town is filled with such energy.

---

Gujo Tourism Association

電話：0575-67-0002

Location: In front of the Former Government Office Memorial Hall, etc. (Venue changes depending on the day)

Access: Get off at "Jokamachi Plaza" on the Gifu Bus Expressway Hachiman Line (Shuttle bus to the venue departs from "Gujo Hachiman Jokamachi Plaza")

HP: http://www.gujohachiman.com/kanko/

*For details on the date, time and venue, please check the link above.

※郡上おどりのレッスンについては「郡上八幡旧庁舎記念館」へお問い合わせください。　(一財)郡上八幡産業振興公社　電話0575-67-1819)