A summer dance event has been held in Tokyo's Suginami Ward. Spectators were allowed to attend in person. They had been unable to participate for the last two years, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Koenji Awa Odori festival used to be held every summer in Tokyo. But the pandemic forced organizers to cancel the annual event in 2020. Last year, viewers were only able to watch performances of the dances online.

The two-day event began on Saturday. But, the dancing parade did not take place. It had to be called off again.

Spectators were permitted to watch people perform the dances on a stage.

Thirty-six Ukrainian evacuees were invited to the event. They fled their country, after Russia invaded, and they now live near Tokyo.

Groups of performers danced energetically as musicians played drums and flutes. People in the audience applauded.

A Ukrainian woman told NHK that she was impressed by the dynamic and delicate dances. The woman also said she was happy that she was able to experience Japanese culture.

One of the organizers said the language of dance is universal and transcends barriers. He added that he hopes the Ukrainian evacuees were encouraged by the event.