Monthly Archives: July 2025

Koenji Awa Odori & Street Strolls: Tokyo’s Retro Festival Spirit

Nestled in Tokyo’s Suginami Ward, Koenji (高円寺) is a neighborhood that hums with nostalgic charm, youth-driven creativity, and an unshakable connection to tradition. Known for its vibrant subcultures, vintage stores, and bohemian cafes, Koenji transforms every summer into a rhythmic spectacle during the Awa Odori Festival—Tokyo’s largest and most energetic dance event. Yet, Koenji’s appeal doesn’t fade after the drums fall silent. Its laid-back, retro atmosphere and rich street culture make it a year-round destination worth wandering. Dancing in the Streets: Koenji Awa Odori Festival Every August, Koenji’s narrow shopping streets become a stage for over 10,000 dancers in brightly colored yukata, performing synchronized steps to the beat of traditional … 続きを読む

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