Awa-Odori Restaurant, Shinjuku, Tokyo

 A Japanese traditional dance called Awa-Odori, Awa (former name of Tokushima Prefecture) Odori (means dance), 

is an energetic and jovial dance accompanied by shamisen lute, taiko drums, shinobue flute and the kane bell music. 

The Awa Odori Festival which is held in mid August as part of Obon Festival,  

attracts more than a million tourists each year.

Expect an evening of culture, entertainment, classic izakaya food and a lot of dancing in this restaurant. 

Decorated with bright and colourful lanterns this cozy little restaurant 

suddenly comes alive as soon as the show begins.   

Our waitress in colourful yukata responded with "yatto! yatto! yattosa! yattosa!" 

while serving our food. 

 The dishes were good but I wouldn't say great, I kind of expected this. 

We were more focused on the dance and so I hear more drum beats, chanting and clapping. 

Towards the end of the show, everyone rose to join the performers dance around the restaurant. 

Diners followed the dancers happily chanting "yatto! yatto! yattosa! yattosa!" feet and hands 

move in tune to the two-beat rhythm of the drums. It was a fun-filled evening for the Japanese and foreigners alike.
Make reservations in advance as this place gets packed. 

 

Edame

Caesar salad

Sashimi Platter

Fish Cakes

Now the dancing starts...

... and the crowd gets dancing!

Yatto! Yatto! Yattosa! Yattosa!

Yakitori

Sukiyaki served in nabemono (hot pot) style.

Makizushi

Kusa Mochi, a popular Spring dessert.

Awa-Odori Shinjuku

Seno Building 5F, 3-18-4 Shinjuku, 

Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3226-2855

Booking is essential.

Bookings can be made through JAPANICAN.com