What is the Bon Odori festival, which has been held in Malaysia since 1977?

A filepic of the festivities on the 'yagura' stage at the Bon Odori cultural celebration in Shah Alam in 2013. In Japan, the Bon Odori festival is a popular get-together summer event which is accompanied by singing, dancing accompanied by lively gongs, drums and flutes. Photo: Filepic

Bon Odori is a popular summer festival in Japan, with singing and dancing to the energetic beat of drums, gongs, and the sweet melody of flutes.

In Malaysia, the festival dates as far back as 1977. It is held to promote and strengthen cultural ties between Malaysia and Japan by showcasing Japanese food, drinks, art, and dance.