Great news! A chance to experience authentic Japanese culture in Tokyo for just ¥100!
Are you interested in experiencing authentic traditional Japanese culture in Tokyo but worried about the cost? Shinjuku City is offering an incredible opportunity for just ¥100 per session!
The Spring Traditional Cultural Program features four cultural experiences:
Nagauta Shamisen (traditional musical instrument)
Kumihimo (traditional braiding technique)
Noh (classical Japanese performing art)
Nihonga (Japanese painting)
This program includes Kumihimo and Noh, which are also part of our cultural experiences for foreign travelers.
If there are too many applicants, a lottery system will be used, with priority given to Shinjuku residents. However, this is a rare and affordable opportunity, so if you live in Tokyo, why not give it a try?
Program Details
Nagauta Shamisen
Nagauta is one of the most iconic styles of shamisen music, often performed in Kabuki theater and traditional Japanese dance. This program offers a fun, hands-on experience where you’ll learn to play simple shamisen phrases under expert guidance. The class uses chairs, so no need to sit on the floor!
Instructor: Kisaburo Okayasu, 8th-generation head of the Nagauta Okayasu School
Date: Tuesday, March 18Time: (1) 15:00-16:30, (2) 18:30-20:00
Venue: Geinou Kaden-Sha (Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 6-12-30)
Capacity: 15 participants per session
Fee: ¥100 per session
Kumihimo (Traditional Braided Cord)
Learn about the history of kumihimo, a traditional braiding technique dating back to the Nara period (8th century). You will create a beautiful strap using an ancient braiding method inspired by the famous Shosoin Treasures. Did you know? Kumihimo is an essential element of kimono fashion, used to tie obi belts!
Instructor: Mihoko Domyo, Honorary Professor at Bunka Gakuen University
Date: Wednesday, March 19Time: (1) 15:00-16:30, (2) 18:30-20:00
Venue: Domyo Kumihimo Experience Classroom (Shinjuku-ku, Kagurazaka 6-75, 2nd Floor)
Capacity: 20 participants per session
Fee: ¥100 per session
Noh (Classical Japanese Performing Art)
Step into the historical world of Noh at the prestigious Yarai Noh Theater, a registered tangible cultural property. Participants will enjoy an introduction to Noh, followed by hands-on practice of chanting (utai) and movement (shimai). Noh is one of the world’s oldest performing arts, deeply connected to samurai culture.
Instructor: Keigo Suzuki, Member of the Nohgaku Association & Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (General)
Date: Friday, March 21Time: (1) 15:00-16:30, (2) 18:30-20:00
Venue: Yarai Noh Theater (Shinjuku-ku, Yarai-cho 60)
Capacity: 24 participants per session
Fee: ¥100 per session
Nihonga (Japanese Painting)
Deepen your understanding of the legendary Edo-period (1603-1867) painter Ito Jakuchu (1716-1800), whose works were recently designated National Treasures. Participants will practice traditional Japanese painting techniques by recreating a part of his famous work “Kikka Ryusui-zu” on silk. You will paint using authentic Japanese pigments on silk canvas. Beginners are welcome!
Instructors:
Satoko Fujii, Lecturer at Joshibi University of Art and Design & Member of the Cultural Property Preservation Society
Yoshiko Nakagami, Member of the Nihon Bijutsuin Research Association
Date: Sunday, March 30Time: 10:30-15:00
Venue:
(Shinjuku-ku, Nishi-Shinjuku 6-12-30)
Capacity: 20 participants
Fee: ¥100 per session
How to Apply
Application Deadline: Must arrive by Wednesday, February 26, 2025
How to Apply: Send a postcard or fax with the following details:
Full name (with furigana)
Postal code & address
Phone number
Desired program name
Preferred session time
Where to Send Applications & Inquiries: Shinjuku City Cultural & Tourism Division1-5-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8484
TEL: 03-5273-4069
FAX: 03-3209-1500
Important Notes
Participants must be 16 years or older.
¥100 participation fee per program (covers insurance, etc.), payable at the venue.
If applications exceed capacity, a lottery system will be used.
Non-Shinjuku residents may apply, but Shinjuku residents will be given priority in case of a lottery.
Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity
This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience authentic Japanese culture at an unbelievably low price.
If you are a foreign resident in Tokyo interested in Japanese traditional arts, this is the perfect opportunity to learn from masters while meeting like-minded people.
Apply before February 26 and experience the magic of Japanese tradition!
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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