Regional dances in Matsuyama and Hakodate evolved from social gatherings and pop-culture trends to create distinct local identities [1], [2].
These traditions highlight how Japanese communities adapt cultural practices to ensure local engagement, often blending traditional Bon dance elements with modern or industry-specific themes to attract participants.
In Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, the city first attempted to establish the Iyo no Matsuyama Tsuzumi-odori in 1966 [1]. However, the dance failed to integrate into the daily lives of the citizens, said caster Junna Yamagata [1]. To solve this lack of penetration, organizers integrated the concept of "baseball-ken"—a popular national trend at the time—into the choreography in 1970 [1], [2]. This shift allowed the Matsuyama Baseball-ken Dance to finally take root among the local population.
Similar unconventional origins define the Ika-odori, or Squid Dance, in Hakodate, Hokkaido. Rather than a formal civic project, this dance was conceived in 1980 by local fishermen [1], [2]. The creators sought something different from existing traditions and developed unique choreography and chants during a banquet [2]. The result was a new style of Bon dance that reflected the city's fishing heritage [1].
These dances exist within a highly competitive regional landscape. In Shikoku, for example, the Yosakoi Naruko-odori of Kochi and the Awa-odori of Tokushima are widely recognized as dominant regional styles, said Yamagata [1]. This environment often pressures other cities to innovate their local performances to remain relevant.
While some dances are born from the top-down efforts of city planners, the Hakodate example shows how organic, grassroots creation, such as a group of citizens at a party, can lead to a lasting cultural staple [1].
“The Matsuyama Baseball-ken Dance was formalized in 1970 after an earlier 1966 attempt failed to catch on.”
The evolution of these dances demonstrates a shift in Japanese folk traditions from static heritage to 'invented traditions.' By incorporating elements like 1970s pop trends or specific local industries, cities create a sense of belonging and tourism appeal that purely ancient rituals might not achieve in a modern urban context.
