Bon Odori Dance Class in Osaka near Tsutenkaku

Samba-like rhythm makes Bon Odori easy to pick up, even for first-time dancers.

A 90-minute Bon Odori dance class at Ebisuza studio in central Osaka, one minute from Tsutenkaku Tower, where you learn the basic steps of Japan's most popular folk dance from a live English-speaking instructor, then dance freely to a samba-like rhythm. The class includes one drink and welcomes children from age 2.

The experience

Bon Odori is danced to a samba-like rhythm, which means you don't need dance experience to join in. The instructor at Ebisuza demonstrates the steps first, then you practice the basics together. Because Bon Odori has few rules, the second half of the class is yours to explore. You move however feels right to the music, and the rhythm carries you through. Many people find the samba-like beat makes it easier to stay on time than more rigid dance forms.

Ebisuza sits in the center of Osaka, one minute on foot from Tsutenkaku Tower. The neighborhood is packed with restaurants serving takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, so you can eat before or after class. Public transportation stops are nearby, and the area is one of Osaka's most famous sightseeing spots, so you can pair the class with other things you want to see in the district.

The class runs 90 minutes and includes one drink (tea, coffee, water, or one can of alcohol), so you can relax into the dancing. Children from age 2 are welcome, and the instructor speaks English throughout.

What’s included

• 90-minute instruction from a live English-speaking guide.
• one drink (tea, coffee, water, or one can of alcohol).

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except Tuesday and WednesdayDepartures at 14:30, 16:30 and 18:30

AgesAdult (6 and older) · Child (2 to 5 years)

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ebisu-za

Is this one for you?The samba-like rhythm and few rules mean you don't need dance experience to enjoy this class. It suits anyone curious about Japanese folk culture who wants to move and have fun without worrying about technique.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (2 to 5 years).

What is Bon Odori and why is it easier to learn than other dances?

Bon Odori is one of Japan's most popular folk dances, and it is danced to a samba-like rhythm. Because the beat is steady and the dance has few rules, anyone can pick up the basic steps and then move freely to the music without worrying about getting it exactly right.

Where is Ebisuza studio and what else is nearby?

Ebisuza is located one minute on foot from Tsutenkaku Tower in central Osaka. The area has many restaurants serving takoyaki, okonomiyaki and kushikatsu, and public transportation options are available nearby, so you can easily reach the studio and explore the neighborhood before or after class.

What is included in the 90-minute class?

The class includes instruction from a live English-speaking guide and one drink of your choice: tea, coffee, water, or one can of alcohol.