郡上おどり

郡上おどり（ぐじょうおどり）は、岐阜県郡上市で毎年夏に開催される伝統的な盆踊りです。約400年以上の歴史を持つこの踊りは、日本三大盆踊りの一つに数えられており、その継承と発展が地域の重要な文化財として位置づけられています。

郡上おどりの特徴は、7月中旬から9月上旬にかけて行われる延べ30夜以上にも及ぶ長期間の開催と、誰でも自由に参加できる点です。特に、8月13日から16日にかけての「徹夜おどり」では、一晩中踊りが続けられ、多くの観光客が訪れます。

踊りの種類は10種類以上あり、「かわさき」「春駒」「やっちく」など、独自のリズムと振り付けが特徴です。踊り手は浴衣を着て、輪になって踊ります。演奏には太鼓や笛、三味線が使用され、その音楽とともに、郡上おどり特有の情緒が生まれます。

郡上おどりは、地域の伝統文化を体験できる貴重な機会であり、郡上市の夏を象徴する一大イベントです。

Gujo Odori is a traditional Japanese Bon dance that takes place annually in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. With a history spanning over 400 years, it is one of Japan’s three major Bon dances and is considered a significant cultural heritage of the region.

What sets Gujo Odori apart is its duration and accessibility. The festival runs from mid-July to early September, featuring over 30 nights of dancing. The most famous part of the festival is the “All-Night Dance” (Tetsuya Odori), which occurs from August 13th to 16th. During this time, the dancing continues throughout the night, attracting thousands of participants and tourists.

The dance repertoire includes more than 10 different styles, each with its own unique rhythm and choreography. Some of the most well-known dances are “Kawasaki,” “Harukoma,” and “Yacchiku.” Dancers typically wear yukata (a casual summer kimono) and form a large circle to dance together. The music, played on traditional instruments like drums, flutes, and shamisen, adds to the festive atmosphere and gives Gujo Odori its distinctive charm.

Gujo Odori is not just a festival but a living tradition that allows participants to connect with the cultural heritage of the region. It’s a symbol of summer in Gujo City and a memorable experience for those who join in the dance.