Bon dance

Definition

Bon dance is a traditional Japanese Buddhist folk dance performed during the Obon festival, which honors the spirits of ancestors. This lively and communal celebration reflects the cultural heritage of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii, showcasing their customs and contributing to the rich tapestry of ethnic diversity found in the islands.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bon dance events are typically held in local temples or community centers, attracting people from various ethnic backgrounds who come together to celebrate and participate.
2. The dances are characterized by simple, repetitive movements, making them accessible for people of all ages and skill levels, promoting a sense of community and togetherness.
3. During the Bon festival, lanterns are often lit to guide ancestral spirits back to their resting places, and bon dance is a joyful way to celebrate life while remembering those who have passed away.
4. The influence of bon dance in Hawaii illustrates how Japanese immigrants retained cultural traditions while also adapting to their new environment, enriching the multicultural landscape of the islands.
5. Bon dance has evolved over time, incorporating elements from other cultures in Hawaii, resulting in unique variations that reflect local influences and preferences.

Review Questions

• How does bon dance reflect the cultural heritage of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii?
  • Bon dance serves as a vibrant expression of Japanese cultural identity among immigrants in Hawaii. It highlights the significance of the Obon festival, a time to honor ancestors while fostering community ties. By participating in bon dance, individuals maintain their cultural traditions and share them with others, creating a unique blend of Japanese customs within the diverse social fabric of Hawaii.
• In what ways did the plantation era impact the practice and evolution of bon dance in Hawaii?
  • The plantation era brought a significant influx of Japanese immigrants who sought work in Hawaii’s agricultural sector. This migration led to the establishment of cultural practices like bon dance as a means of preserving their heritage while adapting to life in a new land. The blending of traditions with other immigrant groups on plantations influenced bon dance's evolution, allowing it to incorporate elements from Hawaiian culture and making it a communal event embraced by many.
• Evaluate the role of bon dance in promoting social cohesion among diverse ethnic groups in Hawaii.
  • Bon dance plays an important role in fostering social cohesion among diverse ethnic groups in Hawaii by providing a space for communal participation and shared celebration. As people from various backgrounds come together to honor ancestors through dance, they create opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding. This shared experience promotes unity and respect for different heritages, reinforcing Hawaii’s identity as a melting pot of cultures while celebrating individual traditions.

Related terms

Obon Festival: A Buddhist tradition in Japan that honors deceased ancestors, often celebrated with dances, offerings, and family gatherings.

Hawaii's Plantation Era: A period during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when large agricultural plantations in Hawaii relied heavily on immigrant labor from various countries, including Japan.

Cultural Assimilation: The process by which minority groups adopt the customs and practices of the dominant culture while maintaining aspects of their own cultural identity.