hokkai bon uta／北海盆唄　 "The Birthplace of Hokkai Bon Uta – Summer Nights in Mikasa"

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🎐 The Heartbeat of Hokkaido Summer – Mikasa’s Bon Odori & the Legacy of Hokkai Bon Uta 🎶

Mikasa City, located in Hokkaido’s Sorachi region, is known as the birthplace of the Hokkai Bon Uta — a powerful traditional folk song rooted in coal miner culture. What began as a local work song evolved into one of Japan’s most iconic Bon Odori melodies, spreading nationwide thanks to singers like Michiya Mihashi.

Every August, Mikasa’s Central Park transforms into a vibrant celebration featuring live music, traditional dancing around an 8-meter-tall three-tiered yagura (tower), and lively chanting echoing through the summer air. The event showcases not only traditional circle dances with shamisen and taiko drums, but also fireworks, costume contests, children’s games, and even lantern releases.

A unique figure tied to Mikasa’s cultural scene is “Hokkai Kumagorō”, a masked pro wrestler and local icon. Based out of Mikasa’s Yuno-Moto Onsen and supported by former All Japan Pro-Wrestling star Issei Sugiura, Kumagorō brings local flair to the ring and stands as a symbol of regional pride.

Whether you're drawn by the rhythm of the Bon Uta, the nostalgic atmosphere, or the community spirit, Mikasa’s Bon Odori is an unforgettable summer experience that bridges generations.

北海盆唄は、炭鉱労働者が労働歌としてうたっていた「べっちょ節」がベース。その後、今井篁山が歌詞・曲調を整え、「北海炭坑節」として発展。三橋美智也による録音で全国に普及しました
三笠市幾春別地区で戦後から盆踊りに活用され、2002年からは「北海盆唄発祥の地」を前面に掲げ、三笠北海盆おどりとして中央公園で開催されています

#北海盆唄
#民謡
#SUNO