The Shirotori Obon Dance was held every summer for over 400 years in central Gifu until the pandemic changed everything. It returned this year after a two year absence. Locals worried – if it didn’t restart this summer would it ever again?
The heat and ruthless humidity of a Japanese summer are intense but the festivals make it worthwhile. Despite my complaints I always enjoy summer evenings outdoors.
On the way home I made a promise to myself never to say a bad word about the summer again.
There’s a playlist of sound recordings from the evening here.
SeanBreslin.jp 
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