Special Events : The 10th SEGJ International Symposium

Special Events

Traditional and Modern Dances in Reception

MAIKO and GEIKO

In Japanese MAIKO literally means 'dancer'. But in Kyoto, a MAIKO is an apprentice geisha, existing in Kyoto only. Maiko are a rare breed now, rarely seen outside other than in the Gion and Pontocho districts. Maiko are easily recognized by their attire. The Obi (a wide belt for kimono) and Kimono of a Maiko are brightly colored and ornately decorated. The Obi is very long and hanging from their waist to their ankles. The Kimono is of the Furisode style with long flapping sleeves. The collar of the under-kimono worn by the Maiko is usually of a red and white patterned material, and shows vividly against the white neck of the Maiko. Most Maiko are the age of sixteen to eighteen. They learn to play Japanese Shamisen (a three-stringed instrument similar to a banjo) and Japanese Shinobue (a wooden flute) as well as Japanese traditional dances and songs. They also learn traditional cultural arts like flower arrangement and tea ceremony. They learn English conversation, of course, and can talk with foreigners.

In the Reception, Maiko-san will perform Kyomai (Kyoto style dance) on the stage. During the time when Maiko-san will be in attendance, they will make rounds to each table. Enjoy a pleasant chat and taking pictures with them.

'Kyoen Sodefure!' Original Dance by University Students

Contrary to the historical performance by Maiko, you can enjoy a modern original dance by students from Kyoto University and Kyoto Prefectural University. The name of performance team is "Saikyo-Zensen" (above photograph). Their dance was newly designed in 2005 by young university students, based on historical performances; Maiko dancing, Kabuki (classical Japanese dance-drama), and Noh (a major form of classical Japanese musical drama). The music includes phrase of famous songs for Maiko and the Kyoto streets, and the costume is remade from traditional Kimono garments. The word "Kyoen" has a meaning of passion from Kyoto, and "Sodefure" means touching a sleeve (i.e., encountering each other). Please enjoy the passionate and friendly events by young students in the Reception of our symposium!

Technical Tour

Technical Tour to Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties are planned jointly with the Workshop. The institute is an organization committed to comprehensive researches on ancient cultural heritage. Geophysical technologies are being applied in research and preservation of the ruins. On the day of the event, one can experience demonstrations of GPR (Ground Penetration Radar). There is also sightseeing planned near the institute if time allowed
Destination and contents:
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties
http://www.nabunken.go.jp/english/index.html
and Nara sightseeing spots if time allowed.
Schedule (tentative)
November 23rd (Wednesday)
08:30 Departure at Kyoto University
17:00 Return to Kyoto University
Fee: 3,000JPY
Capacity: 43 persons (first-come-first-served)
<< You can apply for this special event on the Online Registration Site. >>
<< Online Registration Site is HERE. >>

Spouses' Tour

Destination and contents:
TSUKINOKATSURA Sake Brewery (called as "Sakagura") in Kyoto.
http://www.tsukinokatsura.co.jp/
(in Japanese but the photograph of Sakagura can be checked.)

1.5 hours of Brewery tour with explanations on the Processing Flow and Tasting of Undiluted Sake in Traditional Japanese Style Warehouse build mid-17 century (partially rebuilt after the civil war in late Edo era). 1.5-2 hours of two-way travel time to the Brewery is previewed.
Schedule (tentative)
November 22nd (Tuesday)
15:00 Departure at Kyoto University
18:30 Return to Kyoto University
Fee: 3,500JPY
Capacity: 24 persons (First-registered basis)
<< You can apply for this special event on the Online Registration Site. >>
<< Online Registration Site is HERE. >>

Photo Courtesy of C.W.Chiang