Ookini zaidan

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Main Projects Introduction of Gokagai Traditional Entertainment Certificated People

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Gokagai Joint Performance Gokagai Twilight Gokagai Annual Events 10 Conditions to be Maiko Topics Gion Corner:Kyoto Traditional Musical Theatre

About Ookini Zaidan

Kyoto is blessed with a number of cultural heritages, both tangible and intangible, as well as rich natural environment. These are what Kyoto, the ancient capital, has been preserving over 1,200 years. Especially maiko is a symbol of Kyoto. Five hanamachi (Gokagai) is the place where maiko live and the place where important traditional culture including Japanese music and dance are alive. Each hanamachi has honorary praise from the audience for their stage performance.

However it is true that hanamachi is facing serious problem. Because of the dramatic change of social structure and economy and what is more, it takes years to acquire certain skill of traditional Japanese entertainment culture, the number of successor of hanamachi culture is decreasing. Both precious skills and historical scenery are in serious situation. It is a crucial issue for Kyoto as an international tourist destination. In May 1996, Kyoto City Tourist Association and Kyoto Hanamachi Association founded Kyoto Traditional Musical Art Foundation 'Ookini Zaidan'.

With support from Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Kyoto Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other tourism related organizations, Ookini Zaidan has been promoting wide range of projects to preserve hanamachi culture.