阿呆連 (Ahou-ren)
Founded in 1948 by 25 dancers who broke away from Gojahei seeking more energetic dance. The third of the 'big three' Awa Odori style schools, defining the 'Ahou-cho' style oriented to 'movement.'
Famous 'Awa-no-A-no-ji-wa Ahou-no-ji' chant; samurai-spirit male dance
External page. Check current meetings, membership, and joining details directly with the group.
Other japanese festival crews
Preservation society for the Naginata Hoko, the leading float of Gion Matsuri and the only one to carry a living chigo (sacred child). The oldest of the 32 yamahoko, said to date from a sword donation to Yasaka Shrine in 1225.
Preservation society for the Kanko Hoko, second in the Gion Matsuri procession. The hoko's name and iconography reference the Chinese 'Hangu Pass' tale of Lord Mengchang.
Preservation society for the Tsuki Hoko ('Moon Hoko'), famed for its lavish Edo-period tapestries and carved wood panels by Maruyama Okyo's school. Considered the 'department store of moving art' among the floats.
Preservation society for the Kikusui Hoko, revived in 1952 after being lost in the 1864 Hamaguri Rebellion fire. Themed on a Noh play about chrysanthemum dew and longevity.
Preservation society for the Niwatori ('Rooster') Hoko of Gion Matsuri. Its 16th-century Belgian tapestry depicting Achilles and Priam is a designated Important Cultural Property.
Preservation society for the Hoka Hoko, themed on a wandering monk-juggler (hokashi). Famous for replacing the live chigo with a mechanized puppet that dances atop the float.