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EDO KAGURA Corporation is a registered agency based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and the operator of the brand "NINJA KOTAN."

We specialize in offering authentic traditional cultural experiences such as Ukiyo-e workshops, Nohgaku performances, and Geisha banquets.

22/12/2024

Starting December 22, the annual "Chinowa Kuguri" (Passing Through the Ring) ritual has begun at Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka, Tokyo. The "Chinowa" is a large ring made of chigaya, a type of perennial grass or straw.

Starting December 22, the annual "Chinowa Kuguri" (Passing Through the Ring) ritual has begun at Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka, Tokyo. The "Chinowa" is a large ring made of chigaya, a type of perennial grass, or straw.

Starting from December 22, the annual "Chinowa Kuguri" (Passing Through thRingth) ritual has begun at Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka, Tokyo. The "Chinowa" is a large ring made of chigaya (a type of perennial grass) or straw.

This ritual is performed at the end of the year to cleanse oneself of any sins or impurities accumulated over the past year and to pray for physical and spiritual purification.

How to Perform the "Chinowa Kuguri" Ritual:

1: Stand in front of the Chinowa and bow slightly. Step through the ring with your left foot first, pass through, and circle back to your original position in a counterclockwise direction.

2: Bow slightly again. Step through the ring with your right foot first, pass through, and circle back to your original position in a clockwise direction.

3: Bow slightly once more. Step through the ring with your left foot first, pass through, and circle back to your original position in a counterclockwise direction.

4: Finally, bow slightly, step through the ring with your left foot first, and proceed to the shrine altar. Offer your prayers using the two bows, two claps, and one bow method.

This ritual is a meaningful way to purify yourself and prepare for a fresh start in the coming year. Why not give the Chinowa Kuguri ritual a try to cleanse yourself of this year’s impurities?

The last photo is from Suwa Shrine i

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/what-is-the-large-ring-at-shinto-shrines-in-june

21/12/2024

Next year is the Year of the Snake. In Japan, we value the Zodiac, and as the year-end approaches, you'll find ornaments of next year's Zodiac animal displayed everywhere. – Akiko (Guide)

20/12/2024

Young culture is making its way into Kagurazaka! Crane games and more are a big hit with foreign tourists. - Akiko (Guide)

19/12/2024

Noh performances at Yarai Noh Theater in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku Ward, are now available for purchase in English and Chinese.

You can enjoy Noh with English subtitles on your smartphone, making it the perfect introduction for Noh beginners and international visitors.

Performances and experience sessions will be held on January 4th, 18th, and 19th. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture!

Ticket sales website for Noh Performances
English
https://www.gettiis.jp/en/event/detail/100159/V31749
Chinese
https://www.gettiis.jp/zh-tw/event/detail/100159/V31749

Ticket sales website for Noh Experiences
English
https://www.gettiis.jp/en/event/detail/100159/V31751
Chinese
https://www.gettiis.jp/zh-tw/event/detail/100159/V31749

18/12/2024

Zen Meditation was featured in DestinAsian's article '7 Ways to Immerse Yourself in Tokyo’s Traditions'!

DestinAsian, Asia’s leading luxury travel magazine since 2001, highlighted this experience for its exceptional features:

- Private sessions
- Small group settings
- English instruction
- Chair Zazen meditation (ideal for those who cannot sit cross-legged)
- The rare opportunity to strike the large taiko drum after meditation!

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/immerse-tokyo-traditions-zen-meditation-experience-in-destinasian

17/12/2024

A post by our guide, Akiko! Introducing Kagurazaka's "Noren", a shop that specializes in kitchen tools and more. It's a sister store of the koji specialty shop, MURO. Mini bonsai? The moss-covered arrangement gives it a beautiful, traditional Japanese touch!

16/12/2024

Episode 2: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – The History and Evolution of Toshien Pottery Shop in Tokyo

Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series

In the second installment of our Kagurazaka store owner Interview series exploring the charm of Kagurazaka’s shopping district, we spoke with Nobutaka Tatebayashi, the second-generation owner of Toshien, a historic pottery shop. From the kilns of Hasami Town in Nagasaki Prefecture to the vibrant streets of Kagurazaka, Mr. Tatebayashi has continuously adapted to the changing times with flexibility and determination. Here, we share his inspiring journey.

The Founding and History of Toshien

Toshien was established in 1946 in Shintomi, Chuo Ward, Tokyo, by Takuji Tatebayashi, a native of Arita Town in Saga Prefecture, where his family operated a porcelain wholesaler. In 1948, the shop relocated to Kagurazaka, where it has built an 80-year legacy.

In 1977, Mr. Nobutaka Tatebayashi and his wife moved to Kagurazaka to take over the business. Moving to a new city without prior connections was daunting, but the support of fellow members of the local merchants' association proved invaluable. “My Nagasaki dialect might be a bit hard to understand,” he jokes, showcasing both his humor and the resilience that has carried him through challenging times.

Read More
https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/kagurazaka-store-owner-toshien

15/12/2024

Episode 1: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – “Japanese Pottery Should Be Picked Up and Felt” – Exploring Maruoka Toen and the Charm of Ceramics in Tokyo

Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series Begins

This marks the start of the series "Exploring the Charm of Kagurazaka’s Shopping Street." For the first episode, we interviewed Shinichi Okazaki, the fourth-generation president of Maruoka Toen, a long-established pottery shop in Kagurazaka with a history of over 130 years.

Kagurazaka is home to many pottery shops, thanks to its ties with traditional geisha culture, Ryotei (traditional high-end restaurants) culture, and historic luxury residential areas. Discover the appeal of Japanese pottery and the history of Kagurazaka through the stories shared by Kagurazaka store owner Mr. Okazaki!

The History of Maruoka Toen, a Pottery Shop with Over 130 Years of Tradition

Founded in 1892 (Meiji 25), Maruoka Toen is a historic pottery shop. Its founder, Seitaro Okazaki, was Mr. Okazaki’s great-grandfather.

The Deep Connection Between Pottery and Kagurazaka

Kagurazaka has its roots in the geisha culture, which dates back to the late Edo period (1603–1867), fostering a rich tradition of high-class restaurants. At its peak in 1937–1938, there were reportedly over 600 geisha and 150 restaurants in the area. Maruoka Toen had close ties with these establishments, many of which were its regular customers. When Mr. Okazaki began working in the family business in 1983, there were still around 30 restaurants. Although the number has decreased, connections with local dining establishments remain strong.

Read More
https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/kagurazaka-store-owner-maruoka-toen

14/12/2024

Prologue: Why Is Kagurazaka’s Shopping Street in Tokyo So Vibrant? Exploring Its Charm Through Store Owner Interviews

I have lived in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, for 25 years, and the shopping streets here are part of my daily life. Always bustling with visitors, especially from the local neighborhood, these streets have a unique energy.

To uncover the secrets behind this "vibrancy," I have decided to start a series of interviews with store owners, delving into the appeal of Kagurazaka's shopping district in Tokyo.

Uncovering the Secret: Interviews with Store Owners Begin

Walking through Kagurazaka’s shopping street, you’ll find a variety of unique stores, from traditional Japanese confectionery shops to bustling eateries and quirky boutiques. Morning queues form outside bakeries, and at night, the lights from restaurants illuminate the streets. What fuels this energy? I believe the answer lies in the voices of the shop owners.

Through this interview series, I will explore the thoughts, history, and business philosophies of Kagurazaka’s store owners, sharing the essence of what makes this shopping street so special. Together, let’s uncover the secret behind Kagurazaka’s enduring vibrancy.

Coming Up: An Interview with Shinichi Okazaki of Maruoka Toen

In the next installment, I’ll speak with Shinichi Okazaki, the owner of the long-established Maruoka Toen, a renowned ceramic shop. We’ll delve into the art of ceramics in Kagurazaka and the meaning behind his words, “Ceramics should be chosen by hand.” Stay tuned!

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/kagurazaka-s-shopping-street-in-tokyo-store-owner-interviews

13/12/2024

December Parfait Announcement: Celebrate Christmas with a Special Seasonal Dessert in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

Hidden away in the charming neighborhood of Kagurazaka, Tokyo, the café Couches de bonheur is offering a special Christmas-themed dessert this December. As part of the "Parfait and Tea Tasting" class, the parfaits change monthly to reflect the season. This month’s parfait features the delightful flavors of raspberry, apple, yuzu, and sweet white chocolate.

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/december-parfait-christmas-dessert-kagurazaka-tokyo

12/12/2024

A disaster prevention poster featuring Kagurazaka geisha, created by the Ushigome Fire Department. Be sure to check out the compelling performance by the young geisha of Kagurazaka!

It seems that the smartphone held by the geisha "Hinano," who delivers the line “Shall we call an ambulance?” in the poster, is her own.

The poster was displayed near the B4 exit of Iidabashi Station.

11/12/2024

Experience Noh at Yarai Noh Theater in Tokyo: A Special Event for English-Speaking Visitors Next January

Next month, Yarai Noh Theater in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, will host a special event designed to make Noh accessible to beginners and English-speaking visitors. Noh, one of Japan’s most revered traditional performing arts, has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

With English and Japanese explanations, engaging activities, and affordable tickets, this is a wonderful opportunity to explore Japan’s cultural heritage.

Additionally, Yarai Noh Theater is one of only five "Registered Tangible Cultural Properties (Buildings)" in Japan and the only Noh theater located in Tokyo. Its architectural and historical significance alone makes it well worth a visit.

1. Main Event: New Year Noh Experience on January 4, 2025
Event Name: New Year’s Noh Walk in Yarai Noh Theater 2025
Date & Time: Saturday, January 4, 2025 – Doors open at 12:30 PM; Show starts at 1:00 PM
Tickets: Only ¥3,000 (including tax)

This event is the perfect introduction to Noh for those new to this traditional art form. Here’s what you can expect:

Smartphone Subtitles: Watch the Noh performance "Funa Benkei" (Benkei in a Boat) with real-time English and Japanese subtitles on your smartphone or tablet, ensuring you can follow the story easily.

2. Hands-On Experience: Noh Theater Exploration on January 18 & 19, 2025
Event Name: Noh Theater Exploration 2025
Dates: Saturday, January 18 & Sunday, January 19, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:30 PM)
Tickets: Only ¥500 (including tax)

For just ¥500, visitors can enjoy an interactive exploration of the world of Noh through activities such as:

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/experience-at-yarai-noh-theater-in-tokyo-english-speaking-visitors

10/12/2024

Starting today, we’re launching a new series of posts by our guides! Our guides will walk through Kagurazaka, capture their favorite moments in photos, and share them here. We hope you enjoy these posts!

The first post is by Akiko, featuring Kagurazaka MURO, a specialty shop dedicated to koji. The store offers a wide variety of products made from rice koji, a traditional Japanese ingredient known for its health and beauty benefits. It’s so popular that there’s even a notice apologizing for “out-of-stock items and delayed shipping due to overwhelming orders.”

Stay tuned for more posts from our guides!

https://kojidrink.jp/

08/12/2024

"Our Ukiyo-e Experience Featured in JTB Royal Road Ginza’s Prestigious Package"

We are thrilled to announce that our ukiyo-e workshop, offered through Takahashi Studio, has been selected as a highlight in JTB Royal Road Ginza's exclusive “Dream Holidays: Kirameki” series. This luxurious three-day journey on the TRAIN SUITE Shiki-Shima takes travelers to Echigo and Koshu, with a special focus on enjoying the world of ukiyo-e and spring delicacies in the heart of Edo.

Our ukiyo-e experience allows participants to dive into the intricate beauty of this traditional Japanese art form, making it a perfect addition to this prestigious travel package. We are proud to represent authentic cultural experiences in this extraordinary offering.

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/a-luxurious-ukiyo-e-studio-in-tokyo-before-your-train-journey

07/12/2024

Celebrating Our 3rd Anniversary - Enhancing Traditional Cultural Experience Tours in Tokyo

We are pleased to announce that as of today, December 7, our company celebrates its 3rd anniversary. This milestone would not have been possible without the support and encouragement of everyone who has helped us along the way. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you.

The traditional cultural experience tours in Tokyo we offer have received an outstanding satisfaction rating of 98.9 out of 100 (as of December 7, 2024) from participants. We believe this high evaluation reflects the authenticity of our tours, which go beyond tourist-oriented shows to deliver genuine experiences. Additionally, we have received numerous comments from guests saying, "This was the best experience of my trip to Japan," which serves as a great source of encouragement for us.

Please take a moment to read testimonials from our participants at the following link:
https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/usersvoices

In 2025, as we enter our 4th year, we will continue striving to welcome even more guests to our tours. We are committed to helping participants not only enjoy but also learn about the essence of Japan's traditional culture. We hope that these efforts will contribute, even in a small way, to the revitalization of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Furthermore, to make your trip to Japan more convenient, we will continue offering our clothing rental service. In particular, we plan to actively expand our samue rental service, which enhances immersion in activities like zazen meditation and workshops, to ensure an even more fulfilling experience for our guests.

We look forward to your continued support and encouragement as we move forward. Thank you for your ongoing trust and partnership.

Sincerely,

EDO KAGURA Corporation
Shinya Yamada
President and CEO

02/12/2024

After the Autumn Leaves, It’s Time for Tsubaki (Camellias)—The "Rose of Japan" with Deep Ties to Geisha and Tea Ceremony

As the season of autumn leaves comes to an end, Tsubaki (camellias) takes center stage. Blooming from December to April, the camellia is a native Japanese flower often referred to as the "rose of Japan." Known for its elegant beauty, the camellia is closely associated with the world of geisha and traditional Japanese culture. Its symbolic meanings, such as "eternal beauty" and "perfect elegance," evoke the grace of geisha. With its ability to retain its beauty for centuries, the camellia holds a sense of mystical charm.

Celebrating the Timeless Beauty of Camellias in Japan’s Cultural Heritage

The camellia has long-standing ties to Japan’s artistic and cultural traditions. In the Heian period (794–1185), it was celebrated as a "noble flower" and a "sacred flower" for its evergreen nature, symbolizing prosperity. Today, camellia trees are abundant in Kagurazaka, a neighborhood deeply connected to the world of geisha, where they bloom beautifully in winter.

Camellias in Geisha Kimono and Tea Culture: A Symbol of Elegance and Tradition

Camellia motifs are also prominent in geisha kimono designs, including patterns like "Snow-Covered Camellia," "Branch Camellia," and "Enshu Camellia."

The camellia’s connection to tea culture runs deep. Toyotomi Hideyoshi famously adorned his tea rooms with camellias, and varieties like "Sukiya" and "Wabisuke" were specifically cultivated to embody the wabi-sabi aesthetic. Kagurazaka is also home to the head residence of the Enshu School of Tea, further emphasizing this flower’s ties to the area.

From Japan to the World: Camellias, Coco Chanel, and a Symbol of Elegance
https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/autumn-leaves-tsubaki-camellias-rose-of-japan

01/12/2024

Do You Know Why Leaves Turn Red? Autumn Foliage at Its Peak in Tokyo’s Japanese Gardens

On November 30, 2024, I visited Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, a Japanese garden near Kagurazaka in Tokyo, and enjoyed its breathtaking autumn foliage at its peak. The weather that day was sunny and clear, making it perfect for admiring the vibrant colors of the season.

Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is hosting its annual autumn foliage event, "Shinzan Koyo o Tanoshimu (Enjoy the Mountain’s Autumn Colors)," from November 16 to December 8. With the weather forecast predicting sunny days until December 8, this is the perfect time to visit this beautiful Japanese garden in central Tokyo and immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor.

Why Leaves Turn Red: A Plant’s Simple Preparation for Winter

Since the autumn foliage is at its peak, let’s explore why leaves turn red in the first place. Simply put, this is part of a plant’s preparation for winter. As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten in autumn, photosynthesis slows down, and plants conserve energy in the form of sugars. The green pigment, chlorophyll, which helps absorb light for photosynthesis, begins to break down. Chlorophyll reflects green light, which is why leaves appear green to the human eye.

The red color of autumn leaves, on the other hand, comes from a pigment called anthocyanin. Unlike chlorophyll, anthocyanin is not present in leaves during spring and summer. It is produced in autumn to act as a protective barrier, shielding the leaves from ultraviolet rays as photosynthesis decreases. As chlorophyll diminishes and anthocyanin accumulates, the leaves transition to a vivid red color.

Why Japan’s Autumn Leaves Are So Beautiful?
https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/do-you-know-why-leaves-turn-red-autumn-foliage-at-its-peak-in-tokyo-s-japanese-gardens

30/11/2024

Do You Know Wagashi (Japanese Sweets)?
The Connection Between Wagashi and Zen

What Is Wagashi?

Wagashi are traditional Japanese sweets intricately connected to the seasons. Beyond their delightful taste, they are renowned for their visual beauty, reflecting the ever-changing nature of the natural world. These exquisite treats are closely tied to the tea ceremony, serving as an elegant complement to matcha.

The aesthetic of wagashi often embodies the concept of Wabi-Sabi—a celebration of understated beauty and imperfection—which aligns seamlessly with their role in tea ceremonies. Crafted primarily from plant-based ingredients like rice, wheat, and beans, wagashi is increasingly gaining global recognition for its artistry, simplicity, and cultural significance.

https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/post/authentic-traditional-cultural-experiences-in-tokyo-wagashi-workshop

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東京都新宿区高田馬場1丁目31/16

169-0075

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https://ninjakotan.com/, https://edokagura.com/en/, https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/

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Videos

Do You Know the Mystery of Noh Masks? Here’s the Answer. Noh is the world's oldest performing art, with a history of over 600 years. Noh masks are said to change expression depending on the angle. This video is a rare recording showing the "Young Woman" and "Hannya" Noh masks from various angles—top, bottom, left, and right. Can you see the changes in expression as the angle shifts? By the way, the Hannya mask represents a demoness with a terrifying expression. Were you able to feel the deep sorrow hidden within that expression? Private Noh Theater Tour at Yarai Noh Theater We are organizing an exclusive Noh theater tour at Yarai Noh Theater, a National Tangible Cultural Property. Here’s what the tour includes: ・Yarai Noh Theater: Registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property.The current stage and building were reconstructed in 1952, making it the second oldest Noh theater in Tokyo. ・Exclusive Noh Presentation: A Noh performance by a professional Noh actor, accompanied by a mini-lecture on Noh. ・Backstage Tour: Includes access to backstage areas and a close-up viewing of precious Noh masks. ・Noh Stage Experience: A chance to perform on the Noh stage. This is a rare and valuable opportunity. If you're interested, please reach out through the "Contact" section at the URL below. https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/contact Ninja Kotan-Travel, Operated by EDO KAGURA Corporation https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/ #Noh #Nohmask #traditionalart #traditionalperfomance #japanesearts #japaneseculture

Unveiling Kagurazaka Machitobi Festa (Festival) 2024 in Tokyo: Your Guide to the Ultimate Cultural Celebration

The annual festival of Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine. Kagurazaka, Shinjuku Ward. September 15, 2024. Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine was founded about 1,200 years ago. The stone torii gate, made in 1726, is the oldest torii in Shinjuku Ward. A mikoshi (portable shrine) made in 1678 is displayed on the shrine grounds. The sacred sake offering is 'Hakutaka,' the same sake used at Ise Grand Shrine. This year, only the children's mikoshi (portable shrine) will be featured. Next year, it is planned to be a grand festival with the adult mikoshi as well. Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine is a hidden cherry blossom viewing spot. Even during the hanami season, the grounds remain quiet. Please visit for Hanami next year. #kagurazaka #shinjuku #japanesefestival #tsukudohachimanshrine https://www.ninjakotan-travel.com/kagurazakastreetwalk

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