Japanese culture enchanted Córdoba this weekend with Bon Odori 2024

This weekend, the city of Córdoba became the epicenter of a fascinating immersion in Japanese culture with the arrival of the Bon Odori festival. Organized by the Japanese Association of Córdoba, the event took place last weekend, on October 26 and 27, at the association’s premises, located at 3500 Celso Barrios Avenue.

Bon Odori: a tribute to the ancestors

The Bon Odori, or “Bon dance,” is an ancient festival in Japan that takes place between the months of July and August, and was brought to the Japanese community of Córdoba with the aim of sharing its meaning and customs with the people. local residents, whether of Japanese descent or not.

Originating in the Buddhist tradition and with roots in China, Bon is a time when the souls of ancestors are believed to return to the world of the living to reunite with their loved ones. In this special season, families gather to honor their ancestors and thank them for their guidance and protection.

During Bon Odori, attendees participate in group dances around a central tower of taiko drums, considered symbols of rhythm and unity. The melodies that guide these dances are happy, generating a vibrant and familiar atmosphere.

Activities to immerse yourselfe in Japanese culture

The 2024 edition of Bon Odori in Córdoba has brought with it an extensive sample of Japanese culture. During the two-day event, music and dance as well as martial arts and gastronomy could be seen.

Throughout both days, the public had the opportunity to enjoy Japanese percussion shows, demonstrations of martial arts such as kendo and aikido and presentations of traditional dances performed with the characteristic and colorful kimonos. All this within an impressive property, full of the characteristic beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.

One of the main attractions was the gastronomic patio, which had more than 10 food trucks, where visitors could delight in authentic flavors of Japanese cuisine. From the popular sushi to takoyaki, onigiri and other typical dishes, the space was designed with the purpose of making the senses travel without having to leave the city.

The gastronomic offer is complemented by a cultural fair that exhibits Asian products, both imported and made in Argentina, for those who wish to take home a souvenir or an object of Japanese culture.

Demonstrations and workshops: a space to learn

In addition to dance and cuisine, Bon Odori offered a series of demonstrations of traditional Japanese arts. Nature lovers were able to see a bonsai exhibition, which displayed miniature trees worked with dedication and respect for the aesthetic principles of this discipline.

For those interested in Japanese culture beyond its festivities, there was also an exhibition of origami pieces, the art of paper folding, and a display on the history and philosophy of the samurai, a class of warriors who represent the values of discipline and honor in this ancient Asian culture.

On the other hand, those who wanted to try an active experience could participate in workshops where basic taiko movements and other traditional arts were taught. These workshops were designed to involve the public in the action, making the festival a special personal experience.

Information for the public

This celebration is organized every year by the Japanese Association of Córdoba. This year, for those who wanted to attend, tickets could be purchased both at the entrance to the venue and in advance through the Self-Entry platform. The property has its own parking lot for the convenience of attendees.

Both days had a program full of impressive shows, but on Sunday a special opening was offered with the presentation of the Kendo Bushido Dojo fencing school.

Córdoba as a meeting point for diversity

Bon Odori is much more than a festival. With the support of the Municipality of Córdoba, through the Secretariat of Regional Integration and Institutional Linkage, the festival seeks to strengthen the ties of the Japanese community in the city and show the general public the cultural richness of its traditions.

In an increasingly diverse city, the event provides an opportunity to consolidate inclusion and encourage participation in activities that enrich the city’s multicultural identity.