Japan brings traditional Awa Dance to Expo

The Awa Dance, a traditional Japanese dance dating back more than 400 years, was performed at the UBPA Square of the Expo Site on May 23.

Groups of choreographed dancers and musicians moved through the streets, accompanied by the shamisen lute, taiko drums, shinobue flute and the kane bell.

Men and women dance in different styles in the Awa Dance. Men dance in a low crouch with knees pointing out and arms held above the shoulders, while women dance in tight formation, poised on the ends of their geta sandals. Children and adolescents of both genders usually dance the men's dance.