Dancing Under the Lanterns in Hachobori
Yesterday evening, the deep, steady rhythm of taiko drums reached us at Tokyoeigo.
Instead of calling it a night, after the final lesson, I walked down to the park next to Teppozu Inari Shrine, where the neighborhood had completely transformed for Bon Odori, bathed in the warm light of red and white paper lanterns.
Watching generations move together around the yagura—children in yukata, local shopkeepers, and longtime residents guiding newcomers through the steps—it made me reflect on what community really means. Obon is a time for honoring ancestors, but seeing everyone step into the circle reminded me that tradition is just as much about connecting in the present.
You don’t need to know the dances to feel welcome. Standing there in the park, hearing the music echo off the surrounding streets while a cool evening breeze blew off the canal, Hachobori felt less like a busy Tokyo district and more like a close-knit village.
It was a gentle reminder of why summer here is so special.
Happy Obon everyone!
