Connect and experience Japan through dance
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Japan-Australia Basic Treaty of Friendship and Co-operation.
Celebrate this milestone by experiencing Japanese culture through dance in this fun, interactive one-day workshop. The workshop is divided into two sessions:
Session 1: Bon Odori (Japanese Folk Dance) - Starting 2pm
Learn and experience Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese community dance that has been performed at summer festivals for more than 500 years. Today, there are over 500 Bon Odori dances across Japan, from UNESCO-recognised traditions to modern festival dances.
Many Bon Odori dances reflect the unique history and culture of their local communities. Designed to bring people together, they are enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, with no previous dance experience needed.
During the workshop, you'll learn one of Japan's most popular Bon Odori dances, Tankō-bushi (The Coal Miner's Song)from Fukuoka Prefecture in Kyushu. If time permits, you'll also have the chance to learn Tokyo Ondo, which featured at the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympic Games.
Session 2: Japanese Dance Exercise - Starting 3pm
The second session combines gentle exercise with movements inspired by traditional Japanese dance. Set to contemporary music accompanied by the kokyū (a traditional Japanese string instrument), these low-impact movements help improve coordination and focus while being gentle on the body. The session is suitable for all ages, from children through to older adults.
Come along, get moving, and discover the beauty, rhythm, and cultural traditions of Japanese dance.
After the workshop, you'll be ready to join in the dancing at Japanese festivals in Sydney, or at summer festivals during your next visit to Japan.
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Junko Howe
Born in Saitama, Japan. After moving to Australia permanently in 2011, Junko regularly performed for charity and community events, and private functions in New South Wales.
While preserving the essence of classical works, Junko also enjoys collaborations with other artists. Recently she has made her appearance at 2026 Sydney Fringe Festival this September.
In addition to traditional dance, Junko is involved in teaching Japanese folk dance (Bon Odori), hoping this can help the Japanese community not only enjoy its rich culture, but also nurture intergenerational exchange and deepen cross-cultural understanding with other communities.
Junko holds workshops, private lessons, and leads monthly community Japanese folk dance group sessions in Crows Nest Centre.
She also enjoys dancing ballet, hip hop, and playing Japanese drum (taiko).
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