Yokohama Nigiwai-za: Experience the 'Miracle Skills' of Tradition! Workshop for Kids and Teens: 'Daikagura Circus Arts' Now Accepting Participants!

As part of Yokohama Nigiwai-za's Reiwa 8 Workshop Series 'Performing Arts Experience Program,' a two-session 'Daikagura Circus Arts Workshop' will be held.

In this workshop, participants will learn about 'Daikagura Circus Arts,' a traditional Japanese performance art that uses everyday Japanese tools such as paper umbrellas to spin balls (mari) and metal rings (kanawa). After learning about its history and origins, attendees will watch an impressive live demonstration by the instructor and then try the circus arts themselves using accessible tools. The two-session format allows participants to progressively improve their skills.

This two-day program offers a fun and engaging way to experience traditional Japanese performing arts while enhancing concentration and balance.

What is 'Daikagura'?

Daikagura is a traditional Japanese performing art passed down for generations, using lion dances for exorcism and acrobatics to bring good fortune. It has long been performed at Shinto shrine festivals and celebratory events, deeply woven into people's lives.

The instructor, Yanagiya Yukinosuke, is a member of the Yanagiya Shorakuza, the official Daikagura performance group of the former Mito Domain.

Today, Daikagura continues to be widely performed at celebrations, various events, schools, overseas performances, and through media such as television.

Instructor Profile

Yanagiya Yukinosuke (Yanagiya Yukinosuke)

Born in 1984. Began training at age 3 under his father, Yanagiya Shoraku. Made his stage debut at age 5 at EXPO '90 Osaka (broadcast by NHK). Has performed at Kan'ei-ji Temple, the Yokohama Port 150th Anniversary Commemoration Event, and as a member of Yanagiya Shorakuza received the Agency for Cultural Affairs Art Festival Award. Joined the Yanaya Karyoku school in 2010, relocated his base to Tokyo, changed his stage name to Yanagiya Yukinosuke, and began independent performances. Active in media, including appearances on 'Shōten New Year Special' and features in Benesse's 'Challenge 6th Grade' program.

https://yanagiya-yukinosuke.com/

Event Details

Performing Arts Experience Program: 'Daikagura Circus Arts Workshop'

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026, and Sunday, September 27, 2026. Each session from 10:30 to 12:00.

Venue: Noge Shara (Small Hall), Yokohama Nigiwai-za

Target Audience: Elementary and middle school students (must be able to attend both sessions. Elementary students in grades 1–3 must be accompanied by a guardian. Guardian observation is free.)

Participation Fee: 2,000 JPY

Note: Payment in cash at venue registration on the first day

Capacity: 20 participants (first-come, first-served)

Registration: Via the 'Ticket Web Purchase / Membership Registration' page on the Yokohama Nigiwai-za website

Yokohama Nigiwai-za Phone: 045-231-2515 (10:00–20:00, except on closed days)

Organizer: Yokohama Nigiwai-za (Yokohama City Foundation for the Advancement of Arts and Culture, a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation)