盆踊り (Bon Odori) is a traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon festival, which honors the spirits of ancestors. This lively dance typically takes place in summer, featuring participants dressed in yukata, a casual summer kimono. The dance is characterized by simple, repetitive movements that anyone can join, making it a communal celebration. The origins of 盆踊り date back to the 15th century and are rooted in Buddhist traditions. It is often accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the taiko drum. Communities gather in local parks or temples, creating a festive atmosphere filled with food stalls and lanterns, symbolizing the return of ancestral spirits.