Relaxing Japanese Bon Dance and Voice Meditation

Discovering the Calm: Relaxing Japanese Bon Dance and Voice Meditation

Our review of the Relaxing Japanese Bon Dance and Voice Meditation offers a window into an authentic, thoughtfully curated cultural experience in the scenic surroundings of Yamanashi Prefecture. While we haven’t participated ourselves, this tour promises a peaceful blend of movement, sound, and traditional Japanese rituals that appeal to those seeking both relaxation and culture.

What stands out immediately are its focus on inner peace, the chance to learn about ancient Japanese practices, and the beautiful setting at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Plus, the experience’s affordable price point of just over $43 per person makes it a compelling option for curious travelers wanting a taste of Japan’s spiritual traditions. On the flip side, potential participants should consider that this is an indoor experience, which might limit some of the outdoor festival atmosphere.

This tour is especially well-suited for meditation enthusiasts, yoga lovers, and dance fans. Families with children over 12, couples, or solo travelers looking for a calming cultural activity will find it a soothing, engaging way to connect with Japanese heritage.

Good To Know

• Authentic cultural experience blending traditional dance, meditation, and language.
• Ideal for relaxation and mental clarity—great for stress relief and mindfulness.
• Accessible price point offers good value for a 1.5-hour guided session.
• Indoor setting provides a comfortable, calming environment.
• Suitable for all levels of experience, especially beginners.
• Limited group size (max 30) ensures a personal, engaged atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Setting: A Restored Meiji-Era School

The tour takes place in a charming, wooden facility that has been carefully relocated and restored from a Meiji-era elementary school. This historical building, nestled at the foot of Mt. Fuji, offers a warm, authentic atmosphere that naturally enhances the sense of stepping back in time. The indoor environment ensures comfort regardless of weather, making it an inviting space for reflection and movement.

The Schedule and Flow

Starting at 10:20 am, the experience spans approximately 90 minutes, with a flexible structure that includes several meditation and dance components, often accompanied by live music. This mixture keeps the session engaging while allowing participants to gradually unwind.

The Components: What You’ll Do

1. Breathing Meditation: The journey begins with a gentle breathing exercise aimed at relaxing and connecting with the earth. It’s about easing tension and setting a peaceful tone for the rest of the session. Many reviews note that this session “makes your body feel better and your breathing easier,” highlighting its effectiveness for relaxation.

2. Voice Meditation Using “Awauta”: Next, participants engage in a unique vocal practice centered on the ancient Japanese mantra song “Awauta,” which involves all 48 sounds of the Japanese language. This practice is believed to calm the mind and body by harmonizing with the spiritual energy of each sound. One reviewer mentioned that “each of the 48 sounds has a spirit and different function,” emphasizing the depth of this practice.

3. Dance Meditation: Moving into a more physical phase, this part helps participants feel light inside themselves. The dance is simple, repetitive, and performed in a circle—an experience many find joyful and grounding. The focus on internal feeling over technical skill makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of dance experience.

4. Traditional Bon Dance (“Bon Odori”): Finally, the highlight is learning and dancing the regional Bon dance, performed in a circle. The choreography is straightforward, designed to encourage participation and enjoyment. One participant described the dance as “fun and easy to get excited about,” which speaks to the inclusive nature of the activity.

What Reviewers Say

While explicit reviews are limited, the positive comment, “Relax and connect with the earth,” captures the essence of this experience. The use of live music during 1-3 parts of the session adds a layer of authenticity and emotion, making the meditative and dance parts more engaging.

The Price and What’s Included

For $43.29 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded introduction to Japanese cultural practices. The fee covers all activities, taxes, and fees, providing transparency and convenience. As transportation is not included, travelers should plan to arrive at the meeting point by their own means, but the meeting point is in a central location comfortably accessible in Yamanashi.

Practical Considerations

The group size is limited to 30 participants, promoting a more intimate environment. The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those with an interest in meditation, yoga, or dance, and children over 12 can participate. The indoor setting is a plus for those wary of outdoor elements, but it might lack the festival atmosphere of outdoor Bon dances held during local festivals.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The combination of traditional Japanese arts—from voice and dance to language and history—along with the peaceful natural backdrop near Mt. Fuji, makes this a meaningful experience. It blends education and relaxation, leaving you with a sense of cultural connection and inner calm. The affordability and small group size are added bonuses, making it a practical choice for solo travelers and couples alike.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy meditative practices, gentle movement, and cultural learning. It offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual side of Japanese festivals and traditional arts without requiring physical agility or prior experience. If you’re seeking a peaceful activity with a cultural twist, this is an excellent, value-packed option. Families with older children, yoga practitioners, and curious travelers will find it particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Relaxing Japanese Bon Dance and Voice Meditation provides a calming, culturally rich experience that balances traditional arts with mindfulness techniques. Its indoor setting ensures comfort, while the focus on simple, repetitive movements and sounds makes it accessible for all levels. At an attractive price point, it offers real value for travelers eager to explore Japan’s spiritual heritage in a relaxed environment.

This activity is most suited for those who want more than just sightseeing—those looking for a moment of peace, a bit of cultural insight, and a chance to connect with the traditions that have shaped Japan. Whether you’re a meditation newbie or a dance enthusiast, you’ll likely find this experience both grounding and inspiring.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 12 years old can participate. The activities are gentle and suitable for those interested in cultural practices and meditation.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, private transportation is not included. Participants are responsible for getting to the meeting point at the specified location.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity in a travel day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for gentle movement and meditation is recommended. Since it’s indoors, no special attire is necessary.

Are live music performances part of the experience?
Yes, 1-3 parts of the session are performed with live music, enhancing the atmosphere and authenticity.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Less notice results in no refund.