NISHIYAMA RYOKAN

In Japan, we celebrate "Setsubun" in every Feburary 3rd . http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Setsubun Setasubun means seasonal division and from past it was believed that during the change of season there are evil spirits appears. To drive out these spirits there are many festivals and rituals held in all over Japan. Most popular ritual is called Mamemaki, where throw roasted Soy Beans and call out "Oni ha Soto, Fuku ha Uchi!!" (Demons out! Luck in!). It was believed that Japanise demons (Oni) brings evil sprits. There are also rituals that literally exsorcise Oni. It's called Tsuinashiki and it was believed it started from Yoshida shrine in Kyoto. The festival in Yoshida shrine are held during 2nd to 4th of Feburary, and in 2nd Feb night this ritual are held. This is whats it looks like There are 3 Oni (people dressed up as) and one Oni looks like person called "Housoushi", but he is not evil he is the man with justice and exterminates Oni. At the end the a

We will hold event of Rakugo in English, coming April. We will have rakugo performer Sayohime, she will demonstrate what is Rakugo and have workshop after her performance. Rakugo is a 400 year-old form of comedic Japanese storytelling that is still popular today. The story teller kneels on a Japanese cushion to tell a funny story written in dialogue format and uses two props ; a fan and Japanese cotton towel which can become many things such as wallets, or chopsticks. It had become the custom to include a “punch line” at the end of the story for added effect. Sayohime profile: When I was student. I devoted myself to performing musicals. I have performed Rakugo in English not only in Japanese but also in forein countries.(NY in 200t NZ in 2006 SF in 2007)since 2002. I want to perform in smaller spaces where I can have a closer connection with my audience. I look forward to sharing the joy of Rakugo with you! ＊日時/Date・・・April 1st, 8th and 16th ＊時間/Time・・・19:00-19:50 ＊参加費/Charge・・・FREE ＊プ

Kotoshi mo Yoroshiku Onegai Shimasu. Happy New Year!! We wish this year will be the wonderful year for all.