Penang Bon Odori Festival 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Penang Bon Odori Festival 2025 is happening this year in July and is set to be a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture that offers visitors plenty of interesting experiences from cultural dance performances, to traditions and Japanese cuisine. For more information about this festival, here’s everything you need to know!

Penang Bon Odori Festival Date, Time and Venue

Penang Bon Odori Festival 2025 is going to be held on July 19th 2025 at The Esplanade, Penang from 5pm.

Date: 19th July 2025

Time: Starts from 5 pm onwards

Venue: The Esplanade, Penang

Source: https://www.buletinmutiara.com/thousands-celebrate-the-return-of-bon-odori-festival-in-penang/

 

What Is Bon Odori Festival?

Originating from Japan, the Bon Odori is an age-old Japanese tradition that is celebrated annually with traditional dance and drums to honour and remember the spirit of ancestors. It is initially rooted in the Japanese Buddhist customs. However, it has evolved into a cultural celebration that features cultural dance performances, lively music, food, fun games and other festive activities, attracting both local and international visitors. 

Apart from that, in Penang, the Bon Odori Festival serves as a bridge between the Japanese and Malaysian cultures, encouraging mutual appreciation, respect and harmony. 

 

Highlights of Bon Odori Festival

Every year that this vibrant festival has been held, visitors can expect lively Bon Odori dances, traditional performances, lively music, japanese food and more. Here are some of the highlights of the Penang Bon Odori Festival.

Traditional Japanese Performances

There will be drum performances, Bon Odori dance and other live cultural stage performances happening during the festival.

Japanese Food

Plenty of food stalls available that sell authentic Japanese street food and snacks such as takoyaki, yakitori, mochi and more.

Souvenirs

Explore and purchase unique souvenirs and handcrafted items that will be available at the festival. 

Japanese Cultural Games

Visitors can also participate in traditional Japanese games and activities held at the booths.

Fireworks

At the end of the festival, fireworks will be displayed, you don’t want to miss out on this!

 

Source: https://www.buletinmutiara.com/thousands-celebrate-the-return-of-bon-odori-festival-in-penang/

History of Penang Bon Odori Festival

The Penang Bon Odori Festival has a long and treasured history in Penang. It was first introduced in the 1970s by the Japanese expatriate community as a way to share their cultural heritage with the locals. From a small gathering, the festival has grown in popularity over the years, becoming a grand event attracting locals and tourists. 

Furthermore, the Bon Odori Penang festival brings together the Japanese community and Penangites in a vibrant cultural exchange and strengthens the friendship between the two countries.

 

Dress Code for Penang Bon Odori Festival

There’s no strict dress code, however, visitors are encouraged to wear traditional Japanese attire such as the yukata, which is the casual version of a kimono, or a kimono itself, to get into the full spirit of celebration.

If you don’t own one, fret not as there will be traditional Japanese attire available for rent! Wearing traditional attire during the festival enhances the festive atmosphere, making your experience even more memorable and exciting!

 

Tips for First-Timers to Bon Odori Festival

If it’s your first time attending the Bon Odori Festival, below are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Arrive Early: Arrive early to secure yourself a good spot for performances. 
• Stay Hydrated: It can get quite hot as the festival is held outdoors, bring a water bottle.
• Cash Payments: Carry sufficient cash with you as some vendors may not accept card payments. 
• Respect Traditions: Participate respectfully in dances and activities.
• Dispose of Trash in the Bins Provided: Keep the grounds clean for everyone by disposing of trash properly.

 

Travel to Penang Bon Odori Festival 2025 Hassle-Free with Penangbook!

The Penang Bon Odori Festival has so much to offer, including traditional stage performances, drum performances, authentic Japanese food, games, fireworks and so much more. Make your experience travelling to the festival hassle-free by renting a car in Penang with Penangbook, a trusted online Penang car rental in Malaysia. 

Having a car allows you to travel and explore and visit top destinations in Penang at your own pace. Book your affordable rental car today and plan your trip to the Bon Odori today!