Belly dance is a Western name for a style of dance developed in the Middle East and other Arabic-influenced areas. The origin of this name was its characteristic move that the dancers shake their hips and belly glamorously. It is sometimes called “Oriental Dance”, too.
In the Arabic language it is known as “raqs sharqi” which means oriental dance, and in Egypt, it called “baladi”. It has been kept among the women in Egypt, Turkey and other Arabic counties. Opinion on its origin　is divided, but it is said it may date back to the ancient Egypt. It is also said that the present belly dance may have its roots in the dance of the women lived in the Sultan's palatial harems of the Ottoman Empire.

From 19th century downward, it has developed from the dance at the wedding or carnival to the sophisticated show dance. Through the long years, it has transformed its style and now established as mesmerizing and glamorous entertainment. It is highly popular among the United States, Europe and the other counties all over the world.
In Japan, it has received hot attention from the women of all ages partly because of its gorgeous costumes and seductive dance, and partly because it says to be effective in keeping in good shape.

There are a lot of styles in belly dance, not only oriental dance, but also folklore dance, Gypsy’s dance and the dance with swords. Recently, they have also embraced other forms such as American Tribal Style and fusion style that beyond belly dance technique.

Music also hold a key position in belly dance. They use various instruments such as “Darbukka”(drums) and “Oud”(strings), which are peculiar to Arabic areas. Though they are not so familiar in Japan, their sounds are wonderful and their live performance with dance brings us great impressions and excitements.

Belly dance, which makes women’s inner and physical beauties bloomed, will become more popular and make exciting progress in future.