Keep it real
Anything is possible
“If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together.”
This African proverb lies at the heart of AfricaBONODORI.
We promise an unforgettable experience for everyone who joins us. What may seem impossible on your own becomes achievable when we stand together.
Even in this modern era of internet and technology—where AI can teach us almost anything—our goal is to bring you a genuine sense of excitement.
We want to stand together, look in the same direction, and accomplish something extraordinary.
Back in 2023, a Japanese resident in Kenya casually exclaimed, “I wish I could have baby castella.” Little did he know that this simple comment would spark an incredible wave of excitement, one that continues to ripple across Kenyan soil.
We love Africa, and above all, we love Kenya. Our languages, environments, skin tones, and cuisines may differ, yet we believe a shared feeling of “I like this!” can bridge any gap and bring us closer together.
Japan, our home country, has a festival culture that blossomed rapidly from the Heian period some 1,200 years ago, giving rise to unique traditions all across the nation
Taiko drums, yukata, dancing, food stalls, and lanterns—these are the images of a true Japanese festival. Are you ready to see them for yourself?
At AfricaBONODORI, we’re packing up as much of this timeless culture as we can and bringing it straight to Kenya. “Anything is possible!”
Let’s share the energy, excitement, and passion—together, we’ll take it to the next level.
People of Kenya, please get to know us, and let us get to know you.
Our festival theme centers on living with passion and being true to yourself.
Let’s fill the air in Kenya with everyone’s excitement and make the greatest Africa BONODORI together!
Are you excited?
2025 Event Information
Date: September 27, 2025
Location: Nairobi, Kenya (Details coming soon)
Time: To be announced
体験談一覧
Participant Stories
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けいとさん
今まで見たことがない、体験したことがないといった物事に興味があり、友人と一緒に参加しました。…… -
Dorisさん
アフリカ盆踊り参加のキッカケは、出身大学のコミュニティ内でのボランティア募集の投稿を見て、でした。…… -
Kentaroさん
ケニアで行われたアフリカ初の日本の盆踊り（夏祭り）に、日本人ボランティアとして参加しました。この経験は、これまでのどんなイベントとも違う、特別な思い出になりました。……
Attractions
Takoyaki (octopus dumplings), Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), Grilled Squid, Yakitori (chicken skewers),
Yakisoba (fried noodles), Ramen, Candy Apples, Chocolate Bananas,
Baby Castella (mini sponge cakes), Baked Potatoes with Butter, Cotton Candy, Taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries),
Frankfurters, Tamasenbei (egg-cracker snack), Grilled Corn, Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), Curry…
and possibly brand-new items!
Ring Toss, Masks, Super Ball Scooping, Yo-Yo Fishing, Origami
Traditional Japanese Taiko drumming, Bon Odori Dancing, Anime Song Shows, Cosplay Performances,
and much more!
This year, we’re planning an even more exciting event than our inaugural festival. There are plenty of surprises still under wraps, and we can’t wait to share a true taste of Japanese spirit with everyone in Kenya.
Expect an unforgettable day full of fun and laughter—a day for leaving your worries behind, looking up, and cheering together with friends and family.
Bring your loved ones along and let’s make memories that will last a lifetime!
Live is passion
Looking Back: Our 2024 Event
In 2024, we held the first-ever Africa BONODORI at Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi.
Even though it was our very first event, nearly 100 volunteers traveled all the way from Japan, including taiko drummers, cosplayers, dancers, idols, shrine maidens, chefs—experts from many fields—who came specifically to share in this celebration.
Our guiding principle was to recreate the essence of Bon Odori as faithfully as possible.
From transporting materials and sourcing local supplies to ensuring everyone’s safety, countless challenges came our way. Yet with everyone’s support, we successfully brought the inaugural Africa BONODORI to life.
Attendance soared to remarkable numbers, with a steady stream of visitors from the moment the gates opened until closing time. Long lines wound around the food stalls, and by the time the final Bon Odori performance arrived, people from every corner of the world joined in laughing and dancing together.
When asked for their final thoughts, the organizers said their favorite part was hearing guests declare, “We weren’t just having fun—we were truly moved.”
In response to popular demand, 2025’s Africa BONODORI is set to be bigger and better than ever.
Don’t miss it!
人材募集
