On July 19, a "Bon Odori in Yukata" event was held in the multipurpose room of the Minami-Senri International Plaza.

This annual event is organized by the Senri International Fellowship Association to introduce international students to traditional aspects of Japanese summer culture through activities such as Bon Odori (traditional Japanese folk dancing) and watermelon splitting (suikawari).

In addition to Bekka students, the event was attended by international researchers staying in the Minami-Senri International Plaza and students from the IJLC (Intensive Japanese Language and Culture Course). Members of the Senri International Fellowship Association kindly lent yukata and helped participants put them on, allowing everyone to enjoy Bon Odori and watermelon splitting while experiencing the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese summer.

During the Bon Odori, volunteers from Minoh City led the dances to well-known songs such as Tanko Bushi and Hanasagasa Ondo, as well as familiar tunes including Beautiful Sunday and Dancing Hero. A lively game of watermelon splitting added to the excitement, and the venue was filled with smiles and laughter throughout the event. As the dances were repeated, even students experiencing Bon Odori for the first time quickly learned the steps and joined in with enthusiasm.

The next event, a Matcha Tea Ceremony Experience, is scheduled to be organized by the Senri International Fellowship Association.

The Kansai University Bekka Program will continue to provide opportunities for international students to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture while fostering meaningful connections with the local community.