The Shirotori Obon Dance was held every summer for over 400 years in central Gifu until the pandemic changed everything. It returned this year after a two year absence. Locals worried – if it didn’t restart this summer would it ever again?

The heat and ruthless humidity of a Japanese summer are intense but the festivals make it worthwhile. Despite my complaints I always enjoy summer evenings outdoors.

On the way home I made a promise to myself never to say a bad word about the summer again.

There’s a playlist of sound recordings from the evening here.