2008 greater kansas city japan festival program

8/14/2019 2008 Greater Kansas City Japan Festival Program

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at the

Carlsen Center

Johnson County Community College12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kan.

Saturday, September 27, 200810 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Adults$7, Students and Children$4(Children under 5 admitted free)

For further information, contact:

913-469-8500, ext.3470or go online to www.gkcjapanfestival.com

Come to the Japan Festival

to experience theOLDand theNEWJapan

The Heart of America Japan-America Society and the Japan Festival Committeepresentthe 11th Annual


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MR. KAISHI KATSURA

JAPANESE RAKUGO PERFORMER

3:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre and 7 p.m. in Yardley Hall

We are extremely fortunate to have Mr. Kaishi Katsura, the King of English Rakugo in Japan and worldwide, performat our Festival in 2008. Mr. Katsura was appointed by the Japanese Ministry of Culture as its cultural exchange

ambassador to America, where he is staging a nationwide tour of English Rakugo during 2008.Please enjoy our very special guest, Katsura Kaishi, the worlds top performerof English Rakugo and current cultural ambassador for Japan.

Financial support and arrangements for the appearance of Mr Kaishi Katsura at the Greater Kansas City JapanFestival has been provided by the Japanese Agency for Cultural Affairs.


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THE 11TH ANNUAL GREATER KANSAS CITY

JAPAN FESTIVAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 5

Stage Performances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Exhibits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 8

Other Activities and Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Featured Performers and Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 11, 12, 13

L e c t u r e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 4 , 1 5

Schedule/Timetable of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 17, 18

General Workshop/Demonstrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 20, 21

Teachers K-12 Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Musical Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Martial Arts Workshops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

D i s p l a y s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 4

Japanese Information Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Fun Facts about Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 26

Fun Facts and Information The Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 28

F inanc ia l Contr ibutors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Participating Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

GKC Japan Festival Executive Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

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WELCOME TO THE 11TH ANNUALGREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL

GENERAL INFORMATION

FESTIVAL HOURSSaturday: 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

ADMISSION

Admission Fee Adults $7, students and children $4, children under 5 are free

All activities at the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival are included with admission except several

workshops that have a nominal charge.Wristbands Everyone who pays for an admission will receive a red wrist band. Please wear your

wristband at all times as it will serve as your admittance to all Festival venues.

Persons without the proper wristbands will not be allowed to attend or participatein any event or activity.

Workshops/Demonstrations Workshop and Demonstration admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit on the number of participating attendeesfor each workshopand demonstration. If there is a workshop fee, participating attendeeswill be charged thefee at the door of the workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops ordemonstrations on a space available basis. If you desire to attend a workshop or demonstration,please proceed to the workshop or demonstration room prior to the scheduled start time.

JAPANESE BEER AND SAKE TASTING 3-7 p.m. ONLYCAPITOL FEDERAL ROOM IN THE REGNIER CENTER

Japanese Beer Enjoy a bottle of Japanese beer with your Japanese lunch.

Japanese Sake Tasting Taste a variety of sakes and learn all about the different types

of sake from experts.General Information Regarding Purchase and Consumption of Beer and Sake Attendees

who wish to purchase Japanese beer or participate in the sake tasting event must provide proofthat they are over the age of 18 by showing proper ID. Attendees who are verified as being ofproper age to consume beer or sake will be given a white wristband.

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THE OPENING CEREMONYHonored guests, including government officials and dignitaries from sponsoring

organizations, will officially open the 2008 Greater Kansas City Japan Festival onSaturday, September 27, at 10 a.m. in the Polsky Theatre in the Carlsen Center.

The Opening Ceremonies will include music, remarks by distinguished guests and theritual of kagamiwari the breaking of the sake barrel and toast to open the 2008 GKCJapan Festival.

WELCOME TO THE 11TH ANNUAL GREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL


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THE 11TH ANNUAL GREATER KANSAS CITY

JAPAN FESTIVAL

GENERAL INFORMATION Continued

FINDING YOUR WAY AROUND

Large maps of the various Festival venues will be found at various places throughout the Carlsen Centerand JCCC campus. Floor signs(footprintsin different colors) form paths to guide you to some of themore difficult-to-locate activities. The paths start at the Encore Espresso coffee bar, located at the southend of the Carlsen Center lobby. Floor signspoint to the JCCC Cafeteria/dining area, the Anime areaand other locations.

INFORMATION BOOTHS AND FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WEARING RED VESTSThere will be an Information Booth on the First Floor of the Carlsen Center near the Torii Gate andFestival Volunteers wearing red vests will be stationed throughout the Festival who will be able to assistyou, answer your questions and give you directions.

FOOD SERVICE

TRADITIONAL JAPANESE FOODCAPITOL FEDERAL ROOM IN THE REGNIER CENTER 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Enjoy traditional Japanese food served by local Japanese restaurants.

JCCC FOOD SERVICE

JCCC CAFETERIA LOCATED IN THE COMMONS BUILDING 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

CAF TEMPO IN THE NERMAN MUSEUM 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

ENCORE ESPRESSO IN THE CARLSEN CENTER 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

TRADITIONAL JAPANESE SNACKS AND SWEETS

Second Floor Carlsen Center 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

BAZAAR

Carlsen Center Room 232 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Carlsen Center Room 234 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

FIRST AID

In case of an accident or a medical emergency, please contact a volunteer wearing a red vest orgo to the Information Desk located on the First Floor of the Carlsen Center near the Torii Gate.These individuals will contact Security immediately to address your situation. Volunteers wearing

red vests will be stationed throughout the Festival areas to assist you in case of an emergency.

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2008 FESTIVAL SURVEY

Please take a moment as you leave to fill out a Festival Survey at the Information Boothin the Lobby of the Carlsen Center and enter a drawing for a free prize. Your input iscritical to help us make our Festival even better in 2009! For completing the survey thefirst 1,000 participants will receive a special Japan Festival pen.


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STAGE PERFORMANCESIN POLSKY THEATRE AND YARDLEY HALL

IN POLSKY THEATRE

10 a.m. Opening Ceremonies

10:20 a.m. Introduction of Artists

11 a.m. Ottawa Suzuki Strings

11:25 a.m. Ki-Daiko Olathe HS Taiko Group

11:45 a.m. Glendale Elementary School

12:10 p.m. KU Okinawa Dance Group

12:30 p.m. Denver Taiko Workshop

AFTERNOON PERFORMANCES

1:30 p.m. J-Band Presentationand Buyo Dance

2 p.m. K-State Yosakoi Dance Group

2:30 p.m. KunikoMagical Mask, Mime and Music

3 p.m. Classical Japanese Music PerformanceKoto and Shakuhachi

3:35 p.m. RakugoMr. Kaishi Katsura

4 p.m. Denver Taiko

IN YARDLEY HALL

12:30 p.m. Amateur Talent Contest

2 p.m. Martial Arts Demonstration

EVENING PERFORMANCES

5:30 p.m. Announcement of Amateur TalentContest Winners

5:45 p.m. Classical Japanese Music PerformanceKoto and Shakuhachi

6:15 p.m. KunikoMagical Mask, Mime and Music

7:15 p.m. RakugoMr. Kaishi Katsura

8 p.m. Denver Taiko

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EXHIBITSIN THE VIRGINIA KREBS COMMUNITY ROOM107 CARLSEN CENTER FIRST FLOOR

KIMONO DISPLAYThe kimono is the traditional clothing of Japan. Kimono styles have changed significantly from one period ofJapans history to another. Today, there are many different types and styles of kimono worn by men, women andchildren. The color, cut, fabric and decorations of a kimono may vary according to sex, age and marital status ofthe wearer, the season of the year and the occasion for which the kimono is worn.

Kimonos are made of silk and are usually very expensive. Today they are worn at formal or traditional occasionssuch as weddings and tea ceremonies. To put on a kimono takes much practice and time. Tying the belt or obialone is so difficult that it may require assistance from a friend. Wearing a kimono properly includes proper hair

style, traditional shoes, socks, underwear and a small handbag for women.Enjoy the beautiful kimonos on display. It is rare to see such an outstanding collection as those on display at theFestival. This exhibit is provided the members of the Japan Culture Club.

HINA DOLL DISPLAY

Every year on March 3, Japan celebrates the Doll Festival (Japanese, Hina Matsuri). On this day every year,families set up a special multi-level step-altar on which to arrange the Emperor and Empress dolls, called hinain Japanese. They decorate the altar with boughs of peace blossoms and make offerings to the hinadolls offreshly made rice cakes (mochi), either flavored with a wild herb or colored and cut into festive diamond shapes.

In addition to the beautiful dolls, these altars display many beautiful and luxurious decorative accessories.Enjoy this beautiful and elaborate hinadoll display. Carefully look at the exquisite clothing and the manyaccessories on each level of the display. It is rare to see such a complete collection of hina dolls.

TRADITIONAL SAMURAI ARMOR DISPLAY

The Samurai armor on display in our exhibit area this year is a replica of traditional Samurai armor wornmany centuries ago in Japan. The manufacturer of the armor, Marutake Sangyo, is Japans, and the worlds,premier producer of fine Samurai Yoroi Armor. Located in Satsuma-Sendai city of Japans southwesternKagoshima prefecture, the firms reputation for creating products of unparalleled quality has given them more

than a 90 percent share of the Japanese armor market. From television dramas, such as Yoshitsune, to featurefilms, including Akira Kurosawas classics, Kagemushaand Ran, Marutake Sangyo has shared the spirit ofthe Samurai with the world. Having produced thousands of suits of armor, their clientele extends from theentertainment industry to temples, museums and even the Queen of England.

Each suit of armor manufactured by Marutake Sangyo is researched and modeled after examples found inmuseums, private collections, temples, shrines, hidden storehouses of Samurai clans and other historicalsources. All pieces are painstakingly handcrafted by experienced artisans, using authentic methods andmaterials. For instance, one of their helmets can consist of up to 42 hand-spliced iron plates. Even a smallheader board, splint or helmet lining will be completed by a skilled, veteran artisan. In fact, a single suit of

armor may require the specialized skills of more than 20 craftsmen. Furthermore, all of the companys bodyarmors and helmets are made solely of iron or genuine leather.

MINIATURE JAPANESE TEA ROOM AND GARDEN DISPLAY

A miniature authentic Japanese Tea Room and Garden display will be available for viewing at the Festival thisyear. The exhibit was at one time displayed at the Toy and Miniature Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, onthe southeast corner of the UMKC campus. The detail of the Tea Room and Garden is outstanding. Thedisplay takes you to the heart of a traditional Tea Room like those found in gardens throughout Japan.

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CHILDRENS DAY (BOYS WARRIOR) DOLL

May 5 of each year is a national holiday that celebrates Childrens Day in Japan. Originally, the daywas celebrated as Boys Day to correspond to the Doll Festival for Girls (where families display theHina Dolls described in the previous section) that is held on March 3.

However, the symbols of courage and strength mainly honor boys on May 5. It is the custom for familieswith male children to fly koinobori outside of the home (carp streamers, a symbol of success, and that aredisplayed in the lobby of the Carlsen Center), to eat chimaki and kashiwamochi (different types of specialrice cakes) and to display warrior dolls (musha ningyo) in the home.

Enjoy the beautiful musha ningyowarrior doll in samurai costume. Once again, it is rare to see suchan exquisite example of one of these dolls on display.

DIORAMA DISPLAY OF FAMOUS JAPANESE SITES

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage theidentification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites around the world that areconsidered to be of outstanding value to humanity. UNESCO has recognized a number of these historical sitesthroughout Japan.

The diorama on display at the Festival this year are depictions/models of some of these famous sites in Japan.

One of the diorama is of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine where one can see the massive Torii Gate standing in thebay. Compare the diorama display with the Torii Gate you walked through to enter theFestival which is a large scale model of the Torii Gate at the Itsukushima Shrine.

Photo Exhibit of Kurashiki Kuwahasensei Ryu School of Ikebana

The Kurashiki Kuwahasensei Ryu School of Ikebana, headquartered in Kurashiki, Japan, the Sister City ofKansas City, Missouri, has provided the Festival Committee with beautiful pictures of their exquisite Ikebana

creations. Members of the Kuwahasensei Ryu School were in Kansas City July 2007 with the Kurashiki Week2007 Delegation of more than 475 Kurashiki citizens to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Sister Cityrelationship between our two great cities. The school exhbited their artistic talents with a display at PowellGardens during Kurashiki Week 2007. The Festival Committee thanks the Kuwahasensei Ryu School forallowing us to share in their beautiful work.

EXHIBITSIN THE VIRGINIA KREBS COMMUNITY ROOM107 CARLSEN CENTER FIRST FLOOR

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JAPANESE BAMBOO BASKET EXHIBIT I JCCC BILLINGTON LIBRARY 2ND FLOOR

An exhibit of contemporary Japanese bamboo baskets is an exciting addition to the exhibits at this years JapanFestival. Come to the JCCC Library (2nd Floor) to view a local private collection ofcontemporary Japanese bamboo baskets. Artisans study for years before they are qualified to make

baskets. It takes many more years before they discover if their baskets have anything new to say. Living Treasuresgrow their own bamboo and cure it for use in the baskets. Often the craft is passed down through many genera-tions. This collection represents some of the more interesting and unusual works by noted artists from Japan.

Also on the second floor of the library is a display of contemporary Japanese fiction and a display of non-fictiontitles about Japan from the librarys permanent collection.

The JCCC Library is just south of the south entrance to the Carlsen Center.


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OTHER ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

KIDS ACTIVITY ROOM

11 a.m.-7 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 126A, 126B

Young attendees will be entertained with Japanese stories, Japanese games and activities. No babysittingservices will be provided. Adult supervision is required for all children 10 and under. Kuniko will performseveral times during the afternoon for children at the Festival in Carlsen Center Room 126A.

KIDS JAPANESE BANK AND DEPARTMENT STORE

11 a.m.-7 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 126A, 126B

Children of all ages can exchange U.S. dollars for real Japanese yen at the Festivals Japanese bank. Thenyou can use your yen to purchase traditional Japanese childrens toys at the Festivals Japanese departmentstore. Four yen packages are available: $1 for 101 yen; $5 for 505 yen; $10 for 1,010 yen; and $20 for 2,020yen. If you want to save some of your yen, you may pay for items at the Japanese store in U.S. dollars also.

Enjoy banking and shopping at the Festivals very own Japanese bank and Japanese department store!

FUN ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS

All day on the first floor of the Carlsen Center near the Polsky Theatre

Stop by and have your face painted or have your picture taken in a Japanese kimono, yukata or a suit ofSamurai armor or have your name written in Japanese.

BAZAAR SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA

10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 232 and 234

You can shop for unique Japanese crafts, kimono, yukata, happi coats, kokeshi dolls, games, books, Anime,Manga and much more.

Participating organizations are the Heart of America Japan-America Society, the Greater Kansas City Japan

Club, the Kansas City Japanese School and the Independence Sister City Committee.

THE GAMES OF GO AND SHOGI

11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 214

Goand Shogiare two popular board games in Japan. Gois the oldest board game in the world andoriginated about 1000-2000 BC in China. The game came to Japan around 400 AD. Shogiis similarto chess and originated in Japan.

ANIME AND MANGA ACTIVITIES

In the General Education Building GEB 213, 215 and 217Come and enjoy anime and mangawith the vendors displaying your favorite animeand mangaproducts. Follow the signs to experience animeat its finest.

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Anime and Manga Vendors, Asylum Anime from Pittsburg, Kansas and the KU Anime Club.


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FEATURED PERFORMERS / EVENTS

MR. KAISHI KATSURA, RAKUGO PERFORMER

3:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 7 p.m. in Yardley Hall

We are extremely fortunate to have been able to secure the services of Mr. Kaishi Katsura, the King ofEnglish Rakugo in Japan and worldwide. Mr. Katsura was appointed by the Japanese Ministry of Culture asits cultural exchange ambassador to America, where he is staging a nationwide tour of English Rakugo during2008. Mr. Katsura has taken his classic hilarity to 31 cities in 12 countries, including the Just for Laughcomedy festival and the renowned Sydney Opera House.

A one-man troupe of characters from geisha to samurai, from merchant to ninja, the Rakugo comic enacts

them all their voices, their faces, their hectic activities from the comfort of his cushion. With only the helpof his fan and an oversized hankie, he can take you anywhere he wants you to go. He can recreate the world ofOld Japan, or the world of downtown Osaka, with the panoply of crazies who inhabit them, keeping Rakugo atthe peak of popularity today. Please enjoy our very special guest, Katsura Kaishi, the worlds top performer ofEnglish Rakugo and current cultural ambassador for Japan.

DENVER TAIKO PERFORMANCE

4 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 8 p.m. in Yardley Hall

We are extremely fortunate to have been able to secure the services of Denver Taiko, a professional

Taiko ensemble that was founded in 1976 and is an ensemble of third-, fourth- and fifth-generation JapaneseAmericans. Currently the group features 14 musicians, including not only veterans who have performedwith Denver Taiko since its inception, but also energetic and talented teens. Denver Taiko is an importantpart of Colorado and the Wests cultural landscape, playing at concerts, festivals and diversity celebrationsthroughout the region. The group was honored in 2001 by Denvers Mayor Wellington Webb when itreceived the Mayors annual award for Excellence in the Arts.

Be sure to come to see the energy, spirit and artistry of Denver Taiko that has rocked audiences for more

than thirty years!

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JAPANESE CANDY ARTMIYUKI SUGIMORI

11 a.m.-7 p.m.ON THE SECOND FLOOR LOBBY ABOVE THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE CARLSEN CENTER

Ms. Sugimori is a candy artist who demonstrates her skill at Disney World. She is the only femaleprofessional who can skillfully shape candy material into flowers and animals by blowing air into it.Ms. Sugimori then finishes the candy by shaping it with her fingers and scissors and colors her creationswith eatable dye. She has been a favorite at past Japan Festivals.

CLASSICAL JAPANESE MUSIC PERFORMANCEMS. YOKO HIRAOKA AND MR. DAVID WHEELER

3 p.m. in Polsky Theatre5:45 p.m. in Yardley Hall

These two recognized classical Japanese music experts willplay the koto and shakuhachi. Ms. Hiraoka plays the koto andshamisen and sings. She has taught and played extensively in

the United States and Japan since 1981 and currently teachesat the Naropa Institute in Boulder, Colorado. Mr. Wheeler isa shakuhachi player and musicologist who has performedwith some of the great performers on that instrument. Thesemasters have appeared at the Greater Kansas City JapanFestival in the past.

JAPANESE STORYTELLERMS. KUNIKO YAMAMOTO

2:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 6:15 p.m. in Yardley Hall

CHILDRENS STORYTELLING PERFORMANCE1 and 4 p.m.in Carlsen Center CC 126A

Kuniko Yamamoto is a native of Osaka, Japan, where she studied and performedtraditional theater, music and dance. She traveled to the United States in 1985 andspent five years touring with Leland Faulkners Light Theater, with appearances athundreds of theaters, schools and festivals. Since creating her solo show, she hasbeen a frequent guest artist at Disneys Epcot Japanese Pavilion and has appeared

at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, touring across the country withMagical Mask, Mime & Music.

From native villages in Alaska to traditional proscenium theaters in Florida,Kunikos performances have charmed audiences at storytelling festivals, youngaudience, university and community residencies and family programs.

Ms. Yamamoto will also perform her famous storytelling routines for childrenattendees at the Festival in the Kids Activity area.

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BUYO DANCE PERFORMANCEMRS. YOSHIKO YAMANAKA

1:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre

Japanese Buyo Dancer, Yoshiko Yamanaka, was born and grew up in Kyoto. She began studying Buyo Danceat the age of six. At the age of 12, she became a dancer of the Wakayagi School of Buyo Dance. At the ageof 21, she was certified as a teacher in the art. In addition, she has studied and is a qualified teacher in theTea Ceremony of the Ura Senke School, of Ikebana (flower arranging) and is a certified lecturer in the art ofclassical Kimono wear. Mrs. Yamanaka has studied all of the disciplines of a classical Japanese lady and in

most all of them has attained the top level of expertise. Even in Japan it is rare to find an individual with herextremely high level of training and expertise in most of the traditional female arts.

Mrs. Yamanaka will perform a beautiful Buyo dance in full costume and makeup which is a true sight tobehold. Once again the Festival is pleased to offer this outstanding and sensuous form of Japanese dance art.Ms. Yamanaka will be accompanied by the J-Band.

J-BAND POP MUSIC OF THE NEW JAPAN


DURING THE DAY THE J-BAND WILL PERFORM IN THE NERMAN / REGNIER LOBBY

The GKC Japan Festival is proud to offer Japanese Pop music performed by the J-Band, a local group oftalented Japanese performers. The J-Band is led by Mr. Jo Yamanaka and includes various local singersand musicians.


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KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY YOSAKOI DANCE GROUP

2 p.m. in Polsky Theatre

The Kansas State University Yosakoi Dance Group was founded by Seiji Ikeda, a Japanese-American. Heserved as the groups Director. He was first introduced to Yosakoi dancing while teaching in the JapaneseExchange Teaching Program (JET). Seiji's interest allowed him to bring back the dance form to Kansas StateUniversity and introduce it to both the American students and the international students on campus.

The K-State dancers traveled to Hokkaido, Japan, in June of 2006 to participate in the large Yosakoi festivalthere. With more than 43,000 dancers and 370-plus teams, K-State Yosakoi Dance Group was awarded with

a Performance Award!Yosakoi is a unique style of dance that originated in Japan. Yosakoi started in the city of Kochi in 1954, as amodern rendition of Awa Odori, a traditional summer dance. As of 2005, Yosakoi-style dancing had spreadthroughout much of Japan. The style of dance is highly energetic, combining traditional Japanese dancemovements with modern music.

The costumes used by Yosakoi teams vary widely. Happi coats and yukata are the most predominant costumesand can be seen in a wide variety of colors. Typically, all members of a team wear similar costumes.

Since its introduction in 1954, Yosakoi has become popular throughout Japan. As of 2005, there were

Yosakoi festivals and competitions in more than 200 locations.KANSAS UNIVERSITY OKINAWA DANCE GROUP


PLUS OTHER PERFORMANCES THROUGHOUT THE DAY IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS AT THE FESTIVAL

Kansas University Japanese student folk dance group performs traditional Okinawa folk dances. The dancesthey perform are popular in Okinawa in daily life to bring energy, hope and happiness. Costumes worn by thegroup are very colorful and exciting. The dances feature light, jaunty rhythms and lively choreography. SmallTaiko drums are used by the dancers.

Okinawa is an island chain in the Pacific Ocean just south of the other islands of Japan. Okinawa Prefectureis one of Japans southern prefectures and consists of hundreds of the Ryukyu Islands in a chain whichextends southwest of Kyushu (the southwestern most of Japans four main islands) to Taiwan.

Okinawa has been referred to as the island of song and dance and is deeply rooted in the everyday life ofthe Okinawan people. The KU Japanese student folk dance group brings this energetic and fast-paced songand dance to our Japan Festival this year.


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LECTURES

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THE ART OF ORIGAMI

MS. NANCY BJORGE

Noon in Carlsen Center CC 211

Ms. Nancy Loo Bjorge was born in Shanghai and raised in Hong Kong. She received her studio art educationfrom Eastern Michigan University. She completed an MA and an MFA at the University of Wisconsin,Madison. Her work has been exhibited in one-person shows nationwide. In 2004 she had a solo exhibitionin Eutin, Germany. She has also been invited to show her work at art organizations such as the Lawrence ArtCenter in Lawrence, Kansas, where she currently resides.

Ms. Bjorge did not receive any classroom instruction in paper folding, but instead continued to develop herartistic expressions in paper by learning from adults and other children. After high school, she came to theUnited States for college, and majored in mathematics, the precision of which can still be seen in the cleanplanes and intricate geometry of her colorful creations.

Ms. Bjorge will show a DVD and discuss the history and background of origami, plus give examples of theart. To learn all about the art of origami dont miss Ms. Bjorges presentation.

TRAVELING TO JAPAN: WHAT TO SEE AND HOW TO DO IT

MRS. HIROKO KEIGHTLEY1 p.m. in 211 Carlsen Center 6 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 211

Mrs. Hiroko Keightley is a travel agent from Kansas City who handles travel arrangements for Japanesecitizens traveling to the U.S. and Kansas City, and for Kansas City residents who travel to Japan. She was akey individual in the planning and execution of Kurashiki Week 2007 in Kansas City this summer. If you arethinking of traveling to Japan anytime soon, you dont want to miss her presentation.

JAPANESE GHOSTS AND DEMONSDR. MAGGIE CHILDS AND MRS. DIANNE DAUGHERTY

2 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 211Dr. Childs is an associate professor at the University of Kansas specializing in classical Japanese literature.She has served as the director of the East Asian Studies and the Chairperson of the Department of East AsianLanguages and Cultures at K.U. She grew up in New York and came to the Midwest after earning her doctorateat the University of Pennsylvania in 1983. She taught at Southern Illinois University until 1987 and then movedto the University of Kansas where she has taught for 20 years.

Mrs. Daugherty is the Japanese instructor and director of Japanese curriculum for the Olathe high schools withmore than 15 years of teaching experience. She currently teaches Japanese at Olathe North and Olathe South.

She grew up in Joplin, Missouri, and attended Missouri State University in Springfield, Mo. Her graduate andpost-graduate degrees are from Kansas University. She spent three years living and working in Maebashi, Japan,and makes regular visits leading student and adult study tours throughout Japan. Mrs. Daugherty is the founderand sponsor of the Ki-Daiko Taiko Group for the Olathe District schools, holds a teaching certificate for Ikebanaand is a koto student of Yoko Hiraoka.(continued on next page)


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LECTURES

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Miyazaki Hayaos film, Spirited Away(Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakuchi) heightened the interest around the world inJapans odd creatures of the other world. Join Dr. Childs and Mrs. Daugherty as they explore the intriguing worldof Japanese ghosts and demons. Discover the stories, types and roles of these mystical beings and the impactthey continue to have on Japanese beliefs, behaviors, art and film.

ROMANCE SUPREMACY AND ITS COMMODIFICATION IN CONTEMPORARY JAPAN

DR. AKIKO TAKEYAMA

3 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 211

Dr. Takeyama is an assistant professor at the University of Kansas specializing in sociocultural anthropologyand gender studies. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is the author ofCommodified Romance in a Tokyo Host Club in the edited volume, Genders, Transgenders and Sexualitiesin Japan(Routledge 2005).

Dr. Takeyama will address Japans post-industrial consumer culture, particularly the underground world ofJapans increasingly popular host club scene, where mostly young, working class men sell romance, loveand sex to their female clients, often for exorbitant sums of money. Based on ethnographic fieldwork thatshe conducted in Tokyo between 2003 and 2005, the lecture will explore how Japans market economy andconsumer practices have historically developed mens grooming industry and womens sexual desires in

the name of romance supremacy. Dr. Takeyama will also examine how romance is idealized as a means ofindividual freedom and upward class mobility in Japan.

JAPANESE CONTEMPORARY ARTDR. MAKI KANEKO

4 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 211

Dr. Kaneko is an associate professor of Japanese art at the University of Kansas. She received her doctoratein World Art Studies and Museology at the University of East Anglia (Norwich, United Kingdom) andSainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures.

Dr. Kaneko will discuss Japanese Contemporary Art.

NOTE:Some of the images shown in Dr. Kanekos lecture may not be appropriate for individuals under the age of 18.

THE JAPANESE ART OF WRAPPINGDR. ELAINE GERBERT

5 p.m. in Carlsen CC 211

Dr. Elaine T. Gerbert is an associate professor at the University of Kansas in the department of East AsianLanguages and Cultures. Dr. Gerbert received her doctorate degree in Japanese Literature from Yale

University. She has taught at the University of Kansas since 1990.According to Dr. Gerbert, sometimes a seemingly simple concept can reveal much about a culture. In thecase of Japan, wrapping is one such concept. She will explore the relationship of this concept as it relatesto topics ranging from gift-giving to language and religion. She will show how it influences other aspects ofthe Japanese culture, such as limited space and secret traditions. From wrapping ones self in a kimono towrapping food and other items, she will illustrate how wrapping is a significant part of the traditions andculture. She will show examples, as well as a study of architecture, both early and modern and how objectsand space are wrapped or layered.


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SCHEDULE / TIMETABLE OF EVENTSSATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

PERFORMANCES IN POLSKY THEATRE / YARDLEY HALL10-10:25 a.m. Opening Ceremonies Polsky Theatre10:25-11 a.m. Introduction of Artists Polsky Theatre11-11:20 a.m. Ottawa Suzuki Strings Polsky Theatre11:25-11:45 a.m. Ki-Daiko Olathe High School Taiko Group Polsky Theatre11:45 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Glendale Elementary School Presentation Polsky Theatre12:10-12:25 p.m. KU Okinawa Dance Group Polsky Theatre12:30-1:15 p.m. Denver Taiko Workshop Polsky Theatre12:30-1:30 p.m. Amateur Talent Contest Yardley Hall

1:30-2 p.m. J-Band Presentation and Buyo Dance by Yoshiko Yamanaka Polsky Theatre2-2:30 p.m. K-State Yosakoi Dance Group Polsky Theatre2-4 p.m. Martial Arts Demonstration Yardley Hall2:30-3 p.m. Kuniko Magical Mask, Mime & Music Polsky Theatre3-3:30 p.m. Classical Japanese Music Performance Koto and Shakuhachi Polsky Theatre3:30-4 p.m. Rakugo Mr. Kaishi Katsura Polsky Theatre4-4:30 p.m. Denver Taiko Taiko Drum Performance Polsky Theatre5:30-5:45 p.m. Announcement of Amateur Talent Contest Winners Yardley Hall

5:45-6:15 p.m. Classical Japanese Music Performance Koto and Shakuhachi Yardley Hall6:15-6:45 p.m. Kuniko Magical Mask, Mime & Music Yardley Hall7-8 p.m. Rakugo Mr. Kaishi Katsura Yardley Hall8-8:45 p.m. Denver Taiko Taiko Drum Performance Yardley Hall

EXHIBITSAll Day Kimono, Japanese Hina Dolls, Boys Day Doll and Samurai Armor Krebs Room CC 107All Day Miniature Japanese Tearoom and Garden and Diorama Exhibits Carlsen Center First Floor LobbyAll Day Japanese Bamboo Basket Art Exhibit JCCC Library Second Floor

All Day Torii Entry Gate (Depiction of the Torii Gate at the Itsukushima Shrine) Carlsen Center First Floor LobbyAll Day Ikebana and Japanese Garden Displays Carlsen Center First Floor LobbyAll Day Bonsai Display Carlsen Center Second Floor LobbyAll Day Kurashiki Kuwahasenkei Ryu School of Ikebana Photo Exhibit Carlsen Center First Floor Lobby

FOOD SERVICE11 a.m.-7 p.m. Traditional Japanese Food Service Regnier Capitol Federal Conference Room10 a.m.-2 p.m. JCCC Cafeteria Service JCCC Cafeteria10 a.m.-6 p.m. Caf Tempo Nerman Museum

7 a.m.-7 p.m. Encore Espresso Bar Carlsen Center

JAPANESE SNACK SERVICE

11 a.m.-8 p.m. Oriental Market Japanese Packaged Snack and Treats Carlsen Center Second Floor

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JAPANESE BEER AND SAKE TASTING3-7 p.m Japanese Beer Regnier Capitol Federal Conference Room

3-7 p.m Japanese Sake Regnier Capitol Federal Conference Room

BAZAAR10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Japan-America Society/Independence Sister City Carlsen Center CC 23210:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Japanese School/Japan Club Carlsen Center CC 234

LECTURES

Noon-12:45 p.m. The Art of Origami Carlsen Center CC 2111-1:45 p.m. Traveling to Japan What to See and How to Do It Carlsen Center CC 2112-2:45 p.m. Japanese Ghosts and Demons Carlsen Center CC 2113-3:45 p.m. Romance Supremacy and Its Commodification

in Contemporary Japan Carlsen Center CC 2114-4:45 p.m. Japanese Contemporary Art Carlsen Center CC 2115-5:45 p.m. The Japanese Art of Wrapping Carlsen Center CC 2116-6:30 p.m. Traveling to Japan What to See and How to Do It Carlsen Center CC 211

ACTIVITIES11 a.m.-7 p.m. Miyuki the Candy Artist Carlsen Center Second Floor North Lobby11 a.m.-7 p.m. Kids Japanese Bank and Department Store Carlsen Center CC 126A, 126B11 a.m.-7 p.m. Kids Activity Room

(Japanese Childrens Games, Japanese Storytelling) Carlsen Center CC 126A, 126B11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Games of Go and Shogi Carlsen Center CC 2142-3 p.m. The Games of Go and Shogi Carlsen Center CC 214

KUNIKO STORYTELLING FOR KIDS

1 1:30 p.m. Storytelling by Kuniko Carlsen Center CC126A4 4:30 p.m. Storytelling by Kuniko Carlsen Center CC126A

ANIMEAll Day Anime Vendors GEB 213, 215 and 217

JAPANESE RELATED INFORMATION BOOTHSAll Day See Festival Program for List of Japanese Related Information Booths Carlsen Center

TEACHERS K-12 WORKSHOP10 a.m.-noon Teachers Workshop by KU Center for East Asian Studies OCB 246

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JAPANESE CULTURAL WORKSHOPS / DEMONSTRATIONS11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bonsai Workshop # 1 Carlsen Center CC 1281-2 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop #1 Carlsen Center CC 3231-2 p.m. Gardens of Japan Carlsen Center CC 3161-2 p.m. Ikebana Workshop #1 Carlsen Center CC 3291-2 p.m. Kimono Workshop #1 Carlsen Center Recital Hall2-4 p.m. Bonsai Workshop #2 Carlsen Center CC 1282-3 p.m. Making a Bamboo Fence #1 Carlsen Center CC 314

2-3 p.m. Japanese Conversation Workshop Beginning Carlsen Center CC 3182-3 p.m. Japanese Koi Carlsen Center CC 3442-3 p.m. Tea Ceremony Demonstration # 1 Carlsen Center CC 3382-3 p.m. Origami Workshop #1 Carlsen Center CC 3213-4 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop #2 Carlsen Center CC 3233-4 p.m. Ikebana Workshop #2 Carlsen Center CC 3293-4 p.m. Japanese Conversation Workshop Intermediate Carlsen Center CC 3183-4 p.m. Making a Bamboo Fence #2 Carlsen Center CC 314

3-4 p.m. Origami Workshop #2 Carlsen Center CC 3213-4 p.m. Tea Ceremony Demonstration # 2 Carlsen Center CC 3383-4 p.m. Kimono Workshop #2 Carlsen Center Recital Hall

MUSICAL / DANCE WORKSHOPS

11:15 a.m.-noon Classical Music Workshop (Koto) Carlsen Center CC 33111:15 a.m.-noon Classical Music Workshop (Shakuhachi) Carlsen Center CC 31212:15-1 p.m. Classical Music Workshop (Biwa) Carlsen Center CC 33112:15-1 p.m. Classical Music Workshop (Shakuhachi) Carlsen Center CC 31212:30-1:15 p.m. Denver Taiko Workshop Polsky Theatre2-2:45 p.m. Classical Music Workshop (Shamisen) Carlsen Center CC 3123-3:45 p.m. Classical Music Workshop (Shamisen) Carlsen Center CC 3123-4 p.m. Yosakoi Dance Workshop Carlsen Center TBA4-5 p.m. Yosakoi Dance Workshop Carlsen Center TBA

MARTIAL ARTS WORKSHOPS / DEMONSTRATIONS

2-4 p.m. Martial Arts Demonstration Yardley Hall4:30-5:30 p.m. Kendo Workshop Library Plaza (outside)4:30-5:30 p.m. Iaido Workshop Commons COM 319B

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GENERAL WORKSHOP/DEMONSTRATION

Workshop and demonstration admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit on the number ofparticipating attendees for each workshop and demonstration. If there is a workshop fee, participating attendeeswill be charged the fee at the door of the workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops ordemonstrations on a space-available basis. If you desire to attend a workshop or demonstration, please proceedto the workshop or demonstration room prior to the scheduled start time.

BONSAI WORKSHOPBEN OKI

11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.Carlsen Center Room 128Up to 20 participants per session, ages 10 and older.

Mr. Ben Oki is the Curator of the Bonsai Collection at the HuntingtonLibrary and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California. Mr. Oki isone of the most respected Japanese-American bonsai masters in theworld. He travels widely, teaching bonsai through demonstrations,workshops and lectures. He is the recipient of many national andinternational awards. Mr. Oki also designs and creates Japanese

garden throughout the world. He has created several such gardensin the Kansas City area.Mr. Oki will explain the various types of bonsai styles and will haveexamples of many of the types in the workshop. He will demonstratethe process of creating a bonsai from raw plant material.

CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOPMIDORI HARBISON

1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 323

Up to 25 participants per sessionTry your hand at writing Japanese characters with a brush and ink under Mrs. Harbisons direction.

GARDENS OF JAPANGIL NOVAK

1 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 316Learn and see pictures of the famous gardens of Japan. Mr. Novak has traveled extensively throughout Japanand has visited and taken pictures of many of the famous Japanese gardens. This is a rare opportunity to seepictures and learn about many of the famous gardens you have read about.

IKEBANA WORKSHOPSACHIKO COLOM AND SUE LOONEY

1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 329Up to 12 participants per session, ages 16 and older, $10 fee

Learn about the Japanese art of flower arranging (Ikebana) from masters Mrs. Colom and Mrs. Looneyof the Sogetsu School. You will be provided with flowers to try you own hand at flower arranging in theJapanese style.

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JAPANESE COOKING DEMONSTRATIONSCHEFS FROM LOCAL JAPANESE RESTAURANTS

Throughout the day at the Japanese food service areain the Capitol Federal Conference Room in the Regnier Center

Watch as some of the best sushi chefs in the Kansas City area demonstrate how to make various Japanesefood items. Learn how to prepare some of the most common Japanese dishes from a master.

JAPANESE CONVERSATION WORKSHOP

THE JCCC STAFF2 p.m. (Beginning) and 3 p.m. (Intermediate) in Carlsen Center CC 318

Up to 32 participants per session

Attend a Japanese language workshop to learn about the Japanese language and with the aid of theinstructors learn some basics of the language. The intermediate workshop is for those who already havesome knowledge of the Japanese language and who want to advance their skills.

JAPANESE KOI

BERNIE ARMSTRONG2 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 344

Mr. Armstrong raises thousands of Koi on his farm in Bucyrus, Kansas. He is a Johnson County and MiamiCounty Master Gardener who has expertise in gardens, water features and koi. Koi are ornamentallydomesticated varieties of the common carp. Cultivation of koi flourished during the Chinese Quig Dynastyand the Japanese Edo Period. Koi varieties are distinguished by coloration, patterning and scalation.They are a hardy fish and can tolerate our winters and summers as long as the pond is deep enough anddoes not freeze.

Mr. Armstrong will discuss ideal habitats for koi, the different varieties and what makes certain koi more

valuable than others.

KIMONO WORKSHOPSACHIE STRODER AND MIYAKO FRALEY

1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center Recital Hall


Learn from Mrs. Stroder and Mrs. Fraley all about traditional Japanese kimonos and yukata.Also, you will be able to see them demonstrate what is involved in putting on a kimono or yukata.

ORIGAMI WORKSHOPNANCY BJORGE

2 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center CC 321

Up to 25 participants per session, ages 10 and older, $2 fee

Each attendee will receive an origami kit. The sessions include a 10-minute video introducing Ms. Bjorgeswork. Suggested for children ages 10 and older, as well as teachers and other interested in origami.

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MAKING A BAMBOO FENCEKOJI MORIMOTO

2 and 3 p.m.Carlsen Center CC 314

Up to 20 participants per session, ages 10 and older

Each attendee will learn how to make a bamboofence. Everyone will get to actually learn thetechnique of tying pieces of bamboo together withrope to make the fence.

TEA CEREMONY DEMONSTRATIONDALE SLUSSER


Up to 12 participants per session, ages 13 and older

Observers welcome if space availableThis demonstration shows attendees the procedureto ritually purify the tea container and tea scoop,how to whip a bowl of tea and the proper mannerto drink tea and eat the accompanying sweet. Teaand sweets will be served.

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CENTER FOR EAST ASIAN STUDIESTEACHERS WORKSHOP10 a.m.-noon in OCB 246

A special educational workshop is held at the GKC Japan Festival for area K-12 teachers to learn moreabout Japan and its culture. The workshop is given by the staff of the Center for East Asian Studiesat the University of Kansas. Teachers attending the workshop are provided with ideas and materialto use in their classrooms and with their students. Attendance is limited to K-12 teachers who havepre-registered for the workshop.

The name of this years workshop is Playdate 2008: Childrens Games of Japan. This workshop forK-12 educators will focus on games children play in Japan. The workshop will feature a shortpresentation on games followed by three hands-on sessions in which teachers will be introduced toKagome, Mikan no hana saku oka and Daruma san Ga Koronda, three popular childrens games theycan then go and teach to their own students.

The workshop will be led by Sanae Eda, professor of Japanese at K.U.; and Mishizu Ohtake and KikukoTaguchi, both K.U. graduate students.


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Musical workshop admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit on the number ofparticipating attendees for each workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops ona space-available basis. If you desire to attend a workshop, please proceed to the workshop room priorto the scheduled start time. Following is a list of musical workshops, times and rooms.

TAIKO DRUM WORKSHOPDENVER TAIKO

12:30 p.m.

Polsky TheatreUp to 12 participants per session

Learn all about Taiko drumming from the experts, members of Denver Taiko.You will have the opportunity to actually play the Taiko yourself.

BIWA AND KOTO WORKSHOPSMS. YOKO HIRAOKA

11:15 a.m. (KOTO) and 12:15 p.m. (BIWA)Carlsen Center CC 331


Attend one of these workshops and learn the basics of playing the traditional Japanese instrument called the Koto.

SHAKUHACHI WORKSHOPMR. DAVID WHEELER

11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.Carlsen Center CC 312


Attend one of these workshops and learn the basics of playing the traditional Japanese bamboo flute.

SHAMISEN WORKSHOPMS. TAEKO FUKUCHI



Attend one of these workshops and learn the basics of playing thetraditional Japanese instrument called shamisen.

YOSAKOI DANCE WORKSHOPTHE K-STATE YOSAKOI DANCE GROUP

3 and 4 p.m.Carlsen Center TBA


Attend one of these workshops and learn the basics of Yosakoi dance moves.

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MUSICAL WORKSHOPS


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Martial arts workshop admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit on the number ofparticipating attendees for each workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops on a space-available basis. If you desire to attend a workshop, please proceed to the workshop room/area prior to thescheduled start time. Following is a list of martial arts workshops, times and rooms.

IAIDOTHE JAPANESE SWORD SCHOOL4:30 p.m. Commons COM 319B

Up to 8 participants per sessionIaido is a Japanese sword-drawing art and is one of the traditional Japanese martial arts, or budo, that isconcerned with drawing the blade and cutting in the same motion. A typical form consists of the draw andcut, a finishing cut, cleaning the blade and returning it to the scabbard, all without looking away from animaginary opponent. Most practice is done solo, with live steel.

Students must strive to achieve power, precision and perfection in their form. Along the way they learnbalance, grace and control, both of the body and the mind. The techniques themselves deal with manysituations, such as a sudden attack by several opponents, a surprise attack while bowing to someone, anenemy lying in wait behind a sliding door or an attack in a darkened room. The scenarios are countless

and thus the samurai who developed this art strove to be prepared in any situation.Attend this workshop and learn sword techniques from practitioners of the art.

KENDO WORKSHOPTHE KC KENDO ASSOCIATION and THE MIDLAND KI SOCIETY

4:30 p.m. outdoors in the Library Plaza


The art of Kendo is derived from sword skills developed by samurai of the 12th century. Kendo practitioners

train using a bamboo sword called a shinai. They wear a face mask and body armor called bogu that allowsfor full contact sparring with a low risk of injury. Attend one of these workshops and practice some of thetechniques from practitioners of the art.

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MARTIAL ARTS WORKSHOPS


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DISPLAYS

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JAPANESE LANDSCAPE EXHIBIT BY KOJI MORIMOTOAll day in the lobby of the Carlsen Center near the Polsky Theatre

Japanese gardening makes artistic use of stones, sand, artificial hills, ponds and flowing water in additionto plant material to create a peaceful expression of nature on a small scale. Mr. Morimoto is the owner ofJapanese Landscaping of Kansas City and does an extensive amount of Japanese garden work in the GreaterKansas City area including design, installation, maintenance and trimming/pruning of plant material in thetraditional Japanese garden style.

IKEBANA DISPLAY BY THE SOGETSU SCHOOL

All day in the lobby of the Carlsen CenterIkebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. Take timeto enjoy the several Ikebana display in the lobby of theCarlsen Center provided by members of the Sogetsu School.

BONSAI DISPLAY BY THE BONSAI SOCIETY OFGREATER KANSAS CITY

All day in the second floor lobbyof the Carlsen Center

The Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City has been inexistence since 1968 and was formed to promote theinterest and appreciation of the art of bonsai througheducation, training, information and exhibitions. We areprivileged to have the Society provide an exhibition of awide variety of bonsai styles and plant material for ourFestival again this year. Society members will be at theexhibit to answer questions and demonstrate how plants

are pruned, shaped, trained and wired.TORII GATE ENTRYWAY TO THE FESTIVAL

All day in the second floor lobby of the Carlsen Center

The large Torii Gate that leads all visitors into the GKC Japan Festival is a depiction / large model of one ofthe most famous Torii gate in all of Japan. The Torii gate at the Festival is approximately 14-feet tall and thetop crossbar is about 16-feet long.

This famous Torii gate is found in the bay at the entrance to the Itsukushima Shrine on Itsukushima Island inHiroshima Prefecture. The shrine dates back to the 6th century. The huge Torii gate has existed since 1168

although the current gate dates back to 1875. The gate is about 16 meters (53 feet) high and was built in afour-legged (yotsu-ashi) style to provide stability. The gate appears to float in the water.

A Torii gate is a traditional Japanese gate commonly found at the entry to a Shinto shrine. It has twoupright supports and two crossbars at the top and is usually painted vermilion (a orange/red color). SomeTorii have tablets with writing mounted between the crossbars.


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JAPANESE INFORMATION BOOTHS

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BOOTHS ARE LOCATEDON THE FIRST FLOOR OF THE CARLSEN CENTER:

KU Study Abroad

KU Center for East Asian Studies

Heartland Japan Exchange and Teaching Program Alumni Association (JETAA)

Johnson County Community College International Education

Heart of America Japan-America Society

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The country of Japan is comprised of four major islands, Hokkaido in the north, the main island of Honshu,Shikoku, the small island west and south of Honshu and the southern island of Kyushu. In addition, the

southern islands of Okinawa are also a part of the country of Japan. Japan has 47 prefectures (states to us inAmerica).

Map of JAPAN

Hokkaido

Honshu

KyushuShikoku Okinawa


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FUN FACTS ABOUT JAPAN

AREA AND POPULATION OF JAPAN

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CALIFORNIA153,330 square milesPopulation: 33,900,000

JAPAN

145,883 square milesPopulation: 127,500,000

And, a good portion of Japan is mountainous and not inhabitable!


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FUN FACTS AND INFORMATIONTHE MARTIAL ARTS

IAIDO

Iaidois a Japanese sword-drawing art and is one of the traditional Japanese martial arts, or budo, that isconcerned with drawing the blade and cutting in the same motion. A typical form consists of the draw andcut, a finishing cut, cleaning the blade and returning it to the scabbard, all without looking away from animaginary opponent. Most practice is done solo, with live steel.

Students must strive to achieve power, precision and perfection in their form. Along the way they learnbalance, grace and control, both of the body and the mind. The techniques themselves deal with manysituations, such as a sudden attack by several opponents, a surprise attack while bowing to someone, an

enemy lying in wait behind a sliding door or an attack in a darkened room. The scenarios are countlessand thus the samurai who developed this art strove to be prepared in any situation.

JUDO

Judo(the gentle way) is a martial art, sport and philosophythat originated in Japan. Judo is the successor to jujutsu (toconquer by yielding or compliance) which stressed unarmedcombat against armed opponents and was studied by samurai tocomplement their sword and spear techniques.

Judo uses the principle of using an opponents strength againsthim or her and adapting well to changing circumstances. Forexample, if the attacker was to push against their opponent, theywould find their opponent stepping to the side and allowing(usually with the aid of a foot to trip them up) their momentumto throw them forward (the reverse being true for pulling).

Judo assumes that there are two main phases of combat: thestanding (tachi-waza) and the ground (ne-waza) phases. Each phase requires its own separate techniques,strategies and conditioning. Some training is devoted to transitional techniques to bridge the gap between

the standing and ground phases.

KATORI SHINTO RYU

Katori Shinto Ryuis the oldest still existing martial art in Japan. Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryuwas founded in 1447 by Izasa Ienao. It is considered to be the most distinguished of all Japanese martialtraditions, and as such was designated an intangible cultural treasure by the Japanese government in Aprilof 1960.

Katori Shinto Ryu came to influence many of the major styles which were developed later. Originally, KatoriShinto Ryu was created from the standpoint of fighting on the battlefield. The weapons used, the techniquesand the philosophy of the style reflect this orientation. It is a true battlefield art, created at a time when Japanwas embroiled in civil war. Weapons studied included the sword, the staff, the halberd and the shuriken,among other weapons.

There is an unarmed aspect to the art as well as a ninjutsu(espionage) section. There are also even morepure military studies such as encampment and field fortification strategies. The overall philosophy seems torevolve around the concept of producing well-rounded and balanced soldiers who are proficient in a varietyof battlefield weapons and strategies. Thus, Katori Shinto Ryu is a military art.

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FUN FACTS AND INFORMATIONTHE MARTIAL ARTS

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KENDO

The art of Kendoderives from sword skillsdeveloped by samurai of the 12th century.During the 14th to 16th centuries in Japan,accomplished swordsmen opened schoolsto teach the art of the sword. The morepeaceful Edo period (1600 to 1868) saw themoral and spiritual elements of the practice

come to the forefront, and the art continued.Kendo practitioners train using a bamboosword called a shinai. They wear a face maskand body armor called boguthat allows forfull contact sparring with a low risk of injury.

KI-AIKIDO

Ki-Aikido(Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido Aikidowith Mind and Body Unified) is a particular

school of Aikido. Aikido is a modern martialart developed from traditional Jujitsu, Ken(sword) and Yari (spear) arts.

Entirely defensive, Aikido is not a sport(there are no competitions) nor is it atechnique for fighting. Rather it is a dynamicself-defense form, utilizing throws and jointlocks. Ki-Aikido puts particular emphasison Ki (Life Force) Development as a wayto promote relaxation and overall bodyawareness. By developing Ki and a greaterunderstanding of it through meditation andbreathing techniques, Ki-Aikido practitionersare better able to utilize and manipulatetheir own and their attackers Ki whenexecuting Aikido techniques.

JINMUKAN

The Jinmukan Japanese SwordFighting Schoolteaches various forms ofJapanese sword arts including Iaijutsu, Iaido,Kenjutsu and in Bojutsu (long staff) andNaginatajutsu (halberd, a long-bladedweapon). Jin-mu-kaimeans DivineMartial Arts Association.


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FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Dennis and Taiko Dolan

Dr. Douglas and Mizuki McGregor

Kay-See Dental Manufacturing CompanyNippon Chiropractic and Acupuncture

One-Bite Japanese GrillConsul General Takeo Shibata

and Ms. Mieko Ikegame

Siki Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

Sokkia

Jim SteeleBen and Yumiko Tompkins

Jo and Yoshiko Yamanaka

Consulate General of Japan at Chicago

DST Systems, Inc.Miller and Company, P.C.

Renewal by Andersen

Sunderland Foundation

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The Greater Kansas City Japan Festival Committee wants to take this opportunityto thank all of our very generous contributors that make our Festival a reality.Without their financial support it would not be possible to hold this great event

for the Greater Kansas City area.

We would like to recognize the following donors: (As of August 25, 2008

FESTIVAL CO-SPONSOR($5,000 OR MORE)

QC Holdings, Inc.

The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership

Johnson County Community College

OYAKATA SUMO

GRAND MASTER($2,500 OR MORE)Francis Family Foundation

Francis and Charlene Lemery

Richard J. Stern Foundation

Plus, we would like to thank all of our other financial supporters who are too numerous to list.Please look for the complete list of our contributors as you enter through the Torii gate.

SEKIWAKE SUMO CHAMPION ($250 OR MORE)

YOKOZUNA SUMO GRAND CHAMPION ($1,000 OR MORE)

Dr. Mary Davidson Cohen

Gojo Japanese Steak House

Haas Drilling Company

Darlene JonesKansas City Life Insurance Company

Kawasaki Motors

Pack America Corporation

Pat Riha Productions

Sony Electronics Corporation

University of Kansas Center for East Asian StudiesWilliam T. Kemper Foundation

OZEKI SUMO CHAMPION ($500 OR MORE)


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PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS

Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City

Consulate General of Japan at Chicago

Glendale Elementary School

Heart of America Japan-America Society

Independence / Higashimurayama

Sister City CommitteeJapan Club of Kansas City

Japan Culture Club

Japanese Landscaping

JBand

JET Alumni Association


Kansas City Igo and Shogi Club

Kansas City Japanese School

KC Kendo Association

Kansas City/ Kurashiki Sister City Committee

K-State Yasakoi Dance Group

Ki Society

Ki Daiko (Olathe High School Taiko Group)

KU Okinawa Dance Group

Novak Associates

Mr. Ben Oki

Olathe School District

Ottawa Suzuki Strings

Other martial arts groups

Shawnee Mission Center for International Studies

Sogetsu School of Ikebana

University of Kansas Center for East Asian Studies

University of Kansas Study AbroadAnd many talented and dedicated groups and individuals.

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LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER


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GKC JAPAN FESTIVALEXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Executive Director: Francis LemeryJCCC Representative: Carolyn Kadel

Treasurer: Joyce Williams

Committee Members: Hiroko Bray, Dianne Daugherty, Kumiko DeRigne, John Drakey, Shoko Ishimoto,Jim Kanki, Lizann Kesse, Tatsuya Koda, Denny Kurogi, Mizuki McGregor, Koji Morimoto, Noriko Nakamura,Carole Owsley, Sheilah Philip, Hideko Schackmann, Juri Smick, Mike Smick, Ben Tompkins Mayumi Wagner,Yoshiko Yamanaka, Gary Uchiyama and Tami Woodsmall

Honorary/Advisory Member: Shunichi Fujishima

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Festival Art Designer: Tadashi Isozaki

Mr. Isozaki created the beautiful Festival poster design, the front cover of the Festival program, ourpostcard fliers and the AMC movie clip that was shown on AMC movie screens during late August andSeptember. Isozaki is a graphic designer in British Colombia, Canada.


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2009 Greater Kansas City

FESTIVAL


Visit www gkcjapanfestival com

2008 greater kansas city japan festival program

Documents