An event for children to learn about Kyoto's entertainment district and traditional culture, "Let's learn with parents and children! Hanamachi culture experience class" was recently held at Pontocho Kaburenjo in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto. A total of 76 people, including elementary and junior high school students and their parents, participated in the event and enjoyed the Japanese culture that has been passed down in Kyoto.
Sponsored by Kyoto City. After watching two performances, ``Gion Kouta'' and ``Kirigirisu,'' performed by geisha and maiko accompanied by shamisen, they toured the Kaburenjo, which was built in 1927, and experienced Japanese dance on stage. Kikunojo Onoue, head of the Onoue clan, who served as a dance instructor, said, ``Japanese dance is related to many things such as Kabuki and period dramas. I want you to remember that breathing is very important.''
The children actually went on stage and worked on ``Echigo Shishi'' while learning the basics such as the movements of the shoulders, knees, hands and feet. A 7-year-old second-year student at Saga Elementary School (Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City) said, "When I saw a geisha dancing, I thought it would be difficult, but her teacher was kind enough to help her learn to dance. It was fun." I smiled.
