Japanese farmers to dance, sing in Hanoi
Hanoians will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese dance music to give thanks for a plentiful harvest during a performance on May 15.
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The dance has been performed by Japanese farmers since the beginning of the 18th century among people living in Kawashima district in Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama City.
In 1980, the dance became the first designated intangible cultural asset in the city.
The Kawashima-bayashi was founded to be performed at annual festivals. Today, however, the dance has an important role beyond seasonal festivals, such as the summer festival and New Year’s festival or feasts.
Performers play drums, gongs and bamboo flutes, accompanied by dancers wearing traditional masks and costumes. The comical performances are popular among local residents as an essential element in celebrations.
It is hoped that audiences will enjoy traditional Japanese sounds and dances, and feel the spirit of local Japanese people. The performance, with its free admission, begins at 10.30am in the courtyard (open stage) of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam, 27 Quang Trung Street, Hanoi.
