Shiraishi-odori Dance

Shiraishi Island is a small island located 16 kilometres off the coast of Kasaoka Port in the Seto Inland Sea. Its beauty has been celebrated in traditional Japanese poetry since ancient times, and during the Edo period. The traditional dance known as “Shiraishi Odori” is said to have originated long ago to honour those who lost their lives in the Genpei Mizushima Battle. It is a time-honoured Bon dance performed during the nights of August 13th to 16th. What sets it apart is its unique format, where participants dance a variety of dances, including male and female dances, all synchronised to a single lead dance. This distinctive dance style has earned it the designation as a nationally recognised Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.