2008 Greater Kansas City Japan Festival Program

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

at the Carlsen Center Johnson County Community College 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, Kan.

Saturday, September 27, 2008 10 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. 3470 or go online to www.gkcjapanfestival.com

Come to the Japan Festival to experience the

“OLD” and the “NEW”Japan

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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, perform at 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 world’s top performer of English Rakugo and current cultural ambassador for Japan. Financial support and arrangements for the appearance of Mr Kaishi Katsura at the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival 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 Lecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14, 15 Schedule/Timetable of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 17, 18 General Workshop/Demonstrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 20, 21 Teachers’ K-12 Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Musical Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Martial Arts Workshops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Displays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Japanese Information Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Fun Facts about Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25, 26 Fun Facts and Information – The Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27, 28 Financial Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Participating Organizations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 GKC Japan Festival Executive Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

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WELCOME TO THE 11TH ANNUAL GREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL GENERAL INFORMATION FESTIVAL HOURS Saturday: 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 participate in any event or activity. Workshops/Demonstrations – Workshop and Demonstration admittance is on a first-come, firstserved basis. There is a limit on the number of participating attendees for each workshop and demonstration. If there is a workshop fee, participating attendees will be charged the fee at the door of the workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops or demonstrations 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. ONLY CAPITOL 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 proof that they are over the age of 18 by showing proper ID. Attendees who are verified as being of proper age to consume beer or sake will be given a white wristband.

THE OPENING CEREMONY Honored guests, including government officials and dignitaries from sponsoring organizations, will officially open the 2008 Greater Kansas City Japan Festival on Saturday, 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 the ritual of kagamiwari – the breaking of the sake barrel and toast to open the 2008 GKC Japan Festival.

WELCOME TO THE 11TH ANNUAL GREATER KANSAS CITY JAPAN FESTIVAL 4

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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 Center and JCCC campus. Floor signs (footprints in different colors) form paths to guide you to some of the more difficult-to-locate activities. The paths start at the Encore Espresso coffee bar, located at the south end of the Carlsen Center lobby. Floor signs point to the JCCC Cafeteria/dining area, the Anime area and other locations. INFORMATION BOOTHS AND FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS WEARING RED VESTS There will be an Information Booth on the First Floor of the Carlsen Center near the Torii Gate and Festival Volunteers wearing red vests will be stationed throughout the Festival who will be able to assist you, answer your questions and give you directions. FOOD SERVICE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE FOOD CAPITOL 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. CAFÉ 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 or go 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. 2008 FESTIVAL SURVEY Please take a moment as you leave to fill out a Festival Survey at the Information Booth in the Lobby of the Carlsen Center and enter a drawing for a free prize. Your input is critical to help us make our Festival even better in 2009! For completing the survey the first 1,000 participants will receive a special Japan Festival pen. 5

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STAGE PERFORMANCES IN POLSKY THEATRE AND YARDLEY HALL IN POLSKY THEATRE 10 a.m. 10:20 a.m. 11 a.m. 11:25 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 12:10 p.m. 12:30 p.m.

Opening Ceremonies Introduction of Artists Ottawa Suzuki Strings Ki-Daiko – Olathe HS Taiko Group Glendale Elementary School KU Okinawa Dance Group Denver Taiko Workshop

AFTERNOON PERFORMANCES

1:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 3:35 p.m. 4 p.m.

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J-Band Presentation and Buyo Dance K-State Yosakoi Dance Group Kuniko Magical Mask, Mime and Music Classical Japanese Music Performance Koto and Shakuhachi Rakugo Mr. Kaishi Katsura Denver Taiko

IN YARDLEY HALL 12:30 p.m. Amateur Talent Contest 2 p.m. Martial Arts Demonstration EVENING PERFORMANCES

5:30 p.m. 5:45 p.m. 6:15 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 8 p.m.

Announcement of Amateur Talent Contest Winners Classical Japanese Music Performance Koto and Shakuhachi Kuniko Magical Mask, Mime and Music Rakugo Mr. Kaishi Katsura Denver Taiko

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EXHIBITS IN THE VIRGINIA KREBS COMMUNITY ROOM 107 CARLSEN CENTER – FIRST FLOOR KIMONO DISPLAY The kimono is the traditional clothing of Japan. Kimono styles have changed significantly from one period of Japan’s history to another. Today, there are many different types and styles of kimono worn by men, women and children. The color, cut, fabric and decorations of a kimono may vary according to sex, age and marital status of the 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 occasions such as weddings and tea ceremonies. To put on a kimono takes much practice and time. Tying the belt or obi alone 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 the Festival. 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 “hina” in Japanese. They decorate the altar with boughs of peace blossoms and make offerings to the hina dolls of freshly 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 hina doll display. Carefully look at the exquisite clothing and the many accessories 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 worn many centuries ago in Japan. The manufacturer of the armor, Marutake Sangyo, is Japan’s, and the world’s, premier producer of fine Samurai Yoroi Armor. Located in Satsuma-Sendai city of Japan’s southwestern Kagoshima prefecture, the firm’s 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 feature films, including Akira Kurosawa’s classics, Kagemusha and Ran, Marutake Sangyo has shared the spirit of the Samurai with the world. Having produced thousands of suits of armor, their clientele extends from the entertainment 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 in museums, private collections, temples, shrines, hidden storehouses of Samurai clans and other historical sources. All pieces are painstakingly handcrafted by experienced artisans, using authentic methods and materials. For instance, one of their helmets can consist of up to 42 hand-spliced iron plates. Even a small header 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 company’s body armors 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 this year. The exhibit was at one time displayed at the Toy and Miniature Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, on the southeast corner of the UMKC campus. The detail of the Tea Room and Garden is outstanding. The display takes you to the heart of a traditional Tea Room like those found in gardens throughout Japan. 7

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EXHIBITS IN THE VIRGINIA KREBS COMMUNITY ROOM 107 CARLSEN CENTER – FIRST FLOOR CHILDREN’S DAY (BOY’S WARRIOR) DOLL May 5 of each year is a national holiday that celebrates Children’s Day in Japan. Originally, the day was celebrated as “Boy’s Day” to correspond to the Doll Festival for Girls (where families display the Hina 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 families with male children to fly koinobori outside of the home (carp streamers, a symbol of success, and that are displayed in the lobby of the Carlsen Center), to eat chimaki and kashiwamochi (different types of special rice cakes) and to display warrior dolls (“musha ningyo”) in the home. Enjoy the beautiful “musha ningyo” warrior doll in samurai costume. Once again, it is rare to see such an 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 the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites around the world that are considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. UNESCO has recognized a number of these historical sites throughout 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 the bay. Compare the diorama display with the Torii Gate you walked through to enter the Festival 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 of Kansas 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 Week 2007 Delegation of more than 475 Kurashiki citizens to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Sister City relationship between our two great cities. The school exhbited their artistic talents with a display at Powell Gardens during Kurashiki Week 2007. The Festival Committee thanks the Kuwahasensei Ryu School for allowing us to share in their beautiful work.

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 year’s Japan Festival. Come to the JCCC Library (2nd Floor) to view a local private collection of contemporary 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 Treasures grow their own bamboo and cure it for use in the baskets. Often the craft is passed down through many generations. 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-fiction titles about Japan from the library’s permanent collection. The JCCC Library is just south of the south entrance to the Carlsen Center.

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OTHER ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS KID’S 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 babysitting services will be provided. Adult supervision is required for all children 10 and under. Kuniko will perform several times during the afternoon for children at the Festival in Carlsen Center Room 126A.

KID’S 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 Festival’s Japanese bank. Then you can use your yen to purchase traditional Japanese children’s toys at the Festival’s Japanese department store. Four yen packages are available: $1 for 101 yen; $5 for 505 yen; $10 for 1,010 yen; and $20 for 2,020 yen. 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 Festival’s 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 of Samurai 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 Go and Shogi are two popular board games in Japan. Go is the oldest board game in the world and originated about 1000-2000 BC in China. The game came to Japan around 400 AD. Shogi is similar to chess and originated in Japan.

ANIME AND MANGA ACTIVITIES In the General Education Building – GEB 213, 215 and 217 Come and enjoy anime and manga with the vendors displaying your favorite anime and manga products. Follow the signs to experience anime at its finest. 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 of English Rakugo in Japan and worldwide. 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. Mr. Katsura has taken his classic hilarity to 31 cities in 12 countries, including the “Just for Laugh” comedy 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 help of his fan and an oversized hankie, he can take you anywhere he wants you to go. He can recreate the world of Old Japan, or the world of downtown Osaka, with the panoply of crazies who inhabit them, keeping Rakugo at the peak of popularity today. Please enjoy our very special guest, Katsura Kaishi, the world’s top performer of English 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 Japanese Americans. Currently the group features 14 musicians, including not only veterans who have performed with Denver Taiko since its inception, but also energetic and talented teens. Denver Taiko is an important part of Colorado and the West’s cultural landscape, playing at concerts, festivals and diversity celebrations throughout the region. The group was honored in 2001 by Denver’s Mayor Wellington Webb when it received the Mayor’s 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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FEATURED PERFORMERS / EVENTS JAPANESE CANDY ART MIYUKI 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 female professional 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 creations with eatable dye. She has been a favorite at past Japan Festivals.

CLASSICAL JAPANESE MUSIC PERFORMANCE MS. YOKO HIRAOKA AND MR. DAVID WHEELER 3 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 5:45 p.m. in Yardley Hall These two recognized classical Japanese music experts will play the koto and shakuhachi. Ms. Hiraoka plays the koto and shamisen and sings. She has taught and played extensively in the United States and Japan since 1981 and currently teaches at the Naropa Institute in Boulder, Colorado. Mr. Wheeler is a shakuhachi player and musicologist who has performed with some of the great performers on that instrument. These masters have appeared at the Greater Kansas City Japan Festival in the past.

JAPANESE STORYTELLER MS. KUNIKO YAMAMOTO 2:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre • 6:15 p.m. in Yardley Hall CHILDREN’S STORYTELLING PERFORMANCE 1 and 4 p.m.in Carlsen Center – CC 126A Kuniko Yamamoto is a native of Osaka, Japan, where she studied and performed traditional theater, music and dance. She traveled to the United States in 1985 and spent five years touring with Leland Faulkner’s Light Theater, with appearances at hundreds of theaters, schools and festivals. Since creating her solo show, she has been a frequent guest artist at Disney’s Epcot Japanese Pavilion and has appeared at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, touring across the country with “Magical Mask, Mime & Music”. From native villages in Alaska to traditional proscenium theaters in Florida, Kuniko’s performances have charmed audiences at storytelling festivals, young audience, university and community residencies and family programs. Ms. Yamamoto will also perform her famous storytelling routines for children attendees at the Festival in the Kid’s Activity area. 11

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FEATURED PERFORMERS / EVENTS BUYO DANCE PERFORMANCE MRS. 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 Dance at the age of six. At the age of 12, she became a dancer of the Wakayagi School of Buyo Dance. At the age of 21, she was certified as a teacher in the art. In addition, she has studied and is a qualified teacher in the Tea Ceremony of the Ura Senke School, of Ikebana (flower arranging) and is a certified lecturer in the art of classical 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 her extremely 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 to behold. 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 1:30 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 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 of talented Japanese performers. The J-Band is led by Mr. Jo Yamanaka and includes various local singers and musicians.

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FEATURED PERFORMERS / EVENTS 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. He served as the groups’ Director. He was first introduced to Yosakoi dancing while teaching in the Japanese Exchange Teaching Program (JET). Seiji's interest allowed him to bring back the dance form to Kansas State University 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 festival there. 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 a modern rendition of Awa Odori, a traditional summer dance. As of 2005, Yosakoi-style dancing had spread throughout much of Japan. The style of dance is highly energetic, combining traditional Japanese dance movements with modern music. The costumes used by Yosakoi teams vary widely. Happi coats and yukata are the most predominant costumes and 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 12:10 p.m. in Polsky Theatre 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 dances they perform are popular in Okinawa in daily life to bring energy, hope and happiness. Costumes worn by the group are very colorful and exciting. The dances feature light, jaunty rhythms and lively choreography. Small Taiko drums are used by the dancers. Okinawa is an island chain in the Pacific Ocean just south of the other islands of Japan. Okinawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s southern prefectures and consists of hundreds of the Ryukyu Islands in a chain which extends southwest of Kyushu (the southwestern most of Japan’s 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 of the Okinawan people. The KU Japanese student folk dance group brings this energetic and fast-paced song and dance to our Japan Festival this year.

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LECTURES 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 education from 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 exhibition in Eutin, Germany. She has also been invited to show her work at art organizations such as the Lawrence Art Center in Lawrence, Kansas, where she currently resides. Ms. Bjorge did not receive any classroom instruction in paper folding, but instead continued to develop her artistic expressions in paper by learning from adults and other children. After high school, she came to the United States for college, and majored in mathematics, the precision of which can still be seen in the clean planes 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 the art. To learn all about the art of origami don’t miss Ms. Bjorge’s presentation.

TRAVELING TO JAPAN: WHAT TO SEE AND HOW TO DO IT MRS. HIROKO KEIGHTLEY 1 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 Japanese citizens traveling to the U.S. and Kansas City, and for Kansas City residents who travel to Japan. She was a key individual in the planning and execution of Kurashiki Week 2007 in Kansas City this summer. If you are thinking of traveling to Japan anytime soon, you don’t want to miss her presentation.

JAPANESE GHOSTS AND DEMONS DR. MAGGIE CHILDS AND MRS. DIANNE DAUGHERTY 2 p.m. in Carlsen Center – CC 211 Dr. 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 Asian Languages and Cultures at K.U. She grew up in New York and came to the Midwest after earning her doctorate at the University of Pennsylvania in 1983. She taught at Southern Illinois University until 1987 and then moved to 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 with more 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 and post-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 founder and sponsor of the Ki-Daiko Taiko Group for the Olathe District schools, holds a teaching certificate for Ikebana and is a koto student of Yoko Hiraoka. (continued on next page)

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LECTURES Miyazaki Hayao’s film, Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakuchi) heightened the interest around the world in Japan’s odd creatures of the other world. Join Dr. Childs and Mrs. Daugherty as they explore the intriguing world of Japanese ghosts and demons. Discover the stories, types and roles of these mystical beings and the impact they 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 anthropology and gender studies. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is the author of “Commodified Romance in a Tokyo Host Club” in the edited volume, Genders, Transgenders and Sexualities in Japan (Routledge 2005). Dr. Takeyama will address Japan’s post-industrial consumer culture, particularly the underground world of Japan’s increasingly popular host club scene, where mostly young, working class men “sell” romance, love and sex to their female clients, often for exorbitant sums of money. Based on ethnographic fieldwork that she conducted in Tokyo between 2003 and 2005, the lecture will explore how Japan’s market economy and consumer practices have historically developed men’s grooming industry and women’s sexual desires in the name of romance supremacy. Dr. Takeyama will also examine how romance is idealized as a means of individual “freedom” and upward class mobility in Japan.

JAPANESE CONTEMPORARY ART DR. 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 doctorate in World Art Studies and Museology at the University of East Anglia (Norwich, United Kingdom) and Sainsbury Institute for the Study of Japanese Arts and Cultures. Dr. Kaneko will discuss Japanese Contemporary Art. NOTE: Some of the images shown in Dr. Kaneko’s lecture may not be appropriate for individuals under the age of 18.

THE JAPANESE ART OF WRAPPING DR. 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 Asian Languages 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 the case of Japan, wrapping is one such concept. She will explore the relationship of this concept as it relates to topics ranging from gift-giving to language and religion. She will show how it influences other aspects of the Japanese culture, such as limited space and secret traditions. From wrapping one’s self in a kimono to wrapping food and other items, she will illustrate how “wrapping” is a significant part of the traditions and culture. She will show examples, as well as a study of architecture, both early and modern and how objects and space are wrapped or layered. 15

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SCHEDULE / TIMETABLE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 PERFORMANCES IN POLSKY THEATRE / YARDLEY HALL 10-10:25 a.m. Opening Ceremonies 10:25-11 a.m. Introduction of Artists 11-11:20 a.m. Ottawa Suzuki Strings 11:25-11:45 a.m. Ki-Daiko Olathe High School Taiko Group 11:45 a.m.-12:05 p.m. Glendale Elementary School Presentation 12:10-12:25 p.m. KU Okinawa Dance Group 12:30-1:15 p.m. Denver Taiko Workshop 12:30-1:30 p.m. Amateur Talent Contest 1:30-2 p.m. J-Band Presentation and Buyo Dance by Yoshiko Yamanaka 2-2:30 p.m. K-State Yosakoi Dance Group 2-4 p.m. Martial Arts Demonstration 2:30-3 p.m. Kuniko – Magical Mask, Mime & Music 3-3:30 p.m. Classical Japanese Music Performance – Koto and Shakuhachi 3:30-4 p.m. Rakugo – Mr. Kaishi Katsura 4-4:30 p.m. Denver Taiko – Taiko Drum Performance 5:30-5:45 p.m. Announcement of Amateur Talent Contest Winners 5:45-6:15 p.m. Classical Japanese Music Performance – Koto and Shakuhachi 6:15-6:45 p.m. Kuniko – Magical Mask, Mime & Music 7-8 p.m. Rakugo – Mr. Kaishi Katsura 8-8:45 p.m. Denver Taiko – Taiko Drum Performance

Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Yardley Hall Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Yardley Hall Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Polsky Theatre Yardley Hall Yardley Hall Yardley Hall Yardley Hall Yardley Hall

EXHIBITS All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day All Day

Kimono, Japanese Hina Dolls, Boy’s Day Doll and Samurai Armor Krebs Room – CC 107 Miniature Japanese Tearoom and Garden and Diorama Exhibits Carlsen Center – First Floor Lobby Japanese Bamboo Basket Art Exhibit JCCC Library – Second Floor Torii Entry Gate (Depiction of the Torii Gate at the Itsukushima Shrine) Carlsen Center – First Floor Lobby Ikebana and Japanese Garden Displays Carlsen Center – First Floor Lobby Bonsai Display Carlsen Center – Second Floor Lobby Kurashiki Kuwahasenkei Ryu School of Ikebana Photo Exhibit Carlsen Center – First Floor Lobby

FOOD SERVICE 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Traditional Japanese Food Service JCCC Cafeteria Service Café Tempo Encore Espresso Bar

Regnier – Capitol Federal Conference Room JCCC Cafeteria Nerman Museum Carlsen Center

JAPANESE SNACK SERVICE 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

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Oriental Market Japanese Packaged Snack and Treats

Carlsen Center – Second Floor

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SCHEDULE / TIMETABLE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 JAPANESE BEER AND SAKE TASTING 3-7 p.m 3-7 p.m

Japanese Beer Japanese Sake

Regnier – Capitol Federal Conference Room Regnier – Capitol Federal Conference Room

BAZAAR 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Japan-America Society/Independence Sister City Japanese School/Japan Club

Noon-12:45 p.m. 1-1:45 p.m. 2-2:45 p.m. 3-3:45 p.m. 4-4:45 p.m. 5-5:45 p.m. 6-6:30 p.m.

The Art of Origami Traveling to Japan – What to See and How to Do It Japanese Ghosts and Demons Romance Supremacy and Its Commodification in Contemporary Japan Japanese Contemporary Art The Japanese Art of Wrapping Traveling to Japan – What to See and How to Do It

11 a.m.-7 p.m. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Miyuki the Candy Artist Kid’s Japanese Bank and Department Store Kid’s Activity Room

Carlsen Center – CC 232 Carlsen Center – CC 234

LECTURES Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211 Carlsen Center – CC 211

ACTIVITIES Carlsen Center – Second Floor North Lobby Carlsen Center – CC 126A, 126B

(Japanese Children’s Games, Japanese Storytelling)

Carlsen Center – CC 126A, 126B Carlsen Center – CC 214 Carlsen Center – CC 214

11 a.m.-1 p.m. 2-3 p.m.

The Games of Go and Shogi The Games of Go and Shogi

1 – 1:30 p.m. 4 – 4:30 p.m.

Storytelling by Kuniko Storytelling by Kuniko

All Day

Anime Vendors

All Day

See Festival Program for List of Japanese Related Information Booths

10 a.m.-noon

Teachers’ Workshop by KU Center for East Asian Studies

KUNIKO STORYTELLING FOR KIDS Carlsen Center – CC126A Carlsen Center – CC126A

ANIME GEB – 213, 215 and 217

JAPANESE RELATED INFORMATION BOOTHS Carlsen Center

TEACHERS’ K-12 WORKSHOP OCB 246

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SCHEDULE / TIMETABLE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 JAPANESE CULTURAL WORKSHOPS / DEMONSTRATIONS 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bonsai Workshop – # 1 Carlsen Center – CC 128 1-2 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop – #1 Carlsen Center – CC 323 1-2 p.m. Gardens of Japan Carlsen Center – CC 316 1-2 p.m. Ikebana Workshop – #1 Carlsen Center – CC 329 1-2 p.m. Kimono Workshop – #1 Carlsen Center – Recital Hall 2-4 p.m. Bonsai Workshop – #2 Carlsen Center – CC 128 2-3 p.m. Making a Bamboo Fence #1 Carlsen Center – CC 314 2-3 p.m. Japanese Conversation Workshop – Beginning Carlsen Center – CC 318 2-3 p.m. Japanese Koi Carlsen Center – CC 344 2-3 p.m. Tea Ceremony Demonstration – # 1 Carlsen Center – CC 338 2-3 p.m. Origami Workshop – #1 Carlsen Center – CC 321 3-4 p.m. Calligraphy Workshop – #2 Carlsen Center – CC 323 3-4 p.m. Ikebana Workshop – #2 Carlsen Center – CC 329 3-4 p.m. Japanese Conversation Workshop – Intermediate Carlsen Center – CC 318 3-4 p.m. Making a Bamboo Fence #2 Carlsen Center – CC 314 3-4 p.m. Origami Workshop – #2 Carlsen Center – CC 321 3-4 p.m. Tea Ceremony Demonstration – # 2 Carlsen Center – CC 338 3-4 p.m. Kimono Workshop – #2 Carlsen Center – Recital Hall 11:15 a.m.-noon 11:15 a.m.-noon 12:15-1 p.m. 12:15-1 p.m. 12:30-1:15 p.m. 2-2:45 p.m. 3-3:45 p.m. 3-4 p.m. 4-5 p.m.

MUSICAL / DANCE WORKSHOPS Classical Music Workshop (Koto) Classical Music Workshop (Shakuhachi) Classical Music Workshop (Biwa) Classical Music Workshop (Shakuhachi) Denver Taiko Workshop Classical Music Workshop (Shamisen) Classical Music Workshop (Shamisen) Yosakoi Dance Workshop Yosakoi Dance Workshop

2-4 p.m. 4:30-5:30 p.m. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

MARTIAL ARTS WORKSHOPS / DEMONSTRATIONS Martial Arts Demonstration Yardley Hall Kendo Workshop Library Plaza (outside) Iaido Workshop Commons – COM 319B

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Carlsen Center – CC 331 Carlsen Center – CC 312 Carlsen Center – CC 331 Carlsen Center – CC 312

Polsky Theatre Carlsen Center – CC 312 Carlsen Center – CC 312

Carlsen Center – TBA Carlsen Center – TBA

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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 of participating attendees for each workshop and demonstration. If there is a workshop fee, participating attendees will be charged the fee at the door of the workshop. Additional observers will be admitted into workshops or demonstrations 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.

BONSAI WORKSHOP BEN OKI 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Carlsen Center Room 128 Up to 20 participants per session, ages 10 and older. Mr. Ben Oki is the Curator of the Bonsai Collection at the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California. Mr. Oki is one of the most respected Japanese-American bonsai masters in the world. He travels widely, teaching bonsai through demonstrations, workshops and lectures. He is the recipient of many national and international awards. Mr. Oki also designs and creates Japanese garden throughout the world. He has created several such gardens in the Kansas City area. Mr. Oki will explain the various types of bonsai styles and will have examples of many of the types in the workshop. He will demonstrate the process of creating a bonsai from raw plant material.

CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP MIDORI HARBISON 1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center – CC 323 Up to 25 participants per session Try your hand at writing Japanese characters with a brush and ink under Mrs. Harbison’s direction.

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

IKEBANA WORKSHOP SACHIKO COLOM AND SUE LOONEY 1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center – CC 329 Up 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. Looney of the Sogetsu School. You will be provided with flowers to try you own hand at flower arranging in the Japanese style. 19

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GENERAL WORKSHOP/DEMONSTRATION JAPANESE COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS CHEFS FROM LOCAL JAPANESE RESTAURANTS Throughout the day at the Japanese food service area in 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 Japanese food items. Learn how to prepare some of the most common Japanese dishes from a master.

JAPANESE CONVERSATION WORKSHOP THE JCCC STAFF 2 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 the instructors learn some basics of the language. The intermediate workshop is for those who already have some knowledge of the Japanese language and who want to advance their skills.

JAPANESE KOI BERNIE ARMSTRONG 2 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 Miami County Master Gardener who has expertise in gardens, water features and koi. Koi are ornamentally domesticated varieties of the common carp. Cultivation of koi flourished during the Chinese Quig Dynasty and 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 and does not freeze. Mr. Armstrong will discuss ideal habitats for koi, the different varieties and what makes certain koi more valuable than others.

KIMONO WORKSHOP SACHIE STRODER AND MIYAKO FRALEY 1 and 3 p.m. in Carlsen Center Recital Hall Up to 20 participants per session

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 WORKSHOP NANCY 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. Bjorge’s work. Suggested for children ages 10 and older, as well as teachers and other interested in origami.

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GENERAL WORKSHOP/DEMONSTRATION MAKING A BAMBOO FENCE KOJI 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 bamboo fence. Everyone will get to actually learn the technique of tying pieces of bamboo together with rope to make the fence.

TEA CEREMONY DEMONSTRATION DALE SLUSSER 2 and 3 p.m. Carlsen Center – CC 338 Up to 12 participants per session, ages 13 and older Observers welcome if space available

This demonstration shows attendees the procedure to ritually purify the tea container and tea scoop, how to whip a bowl of tea and the proper manner to drink tea and eat the accompanying sweet. Tea and sweets will be served.

CENTER FOR EAST ASIAN STUDIES TEACHERS’ WORKSHOP 10 a.m.-noon in OCB – 246 A special educational workshop is held at the GKC Japan Festival for area K-12 teachers to learn more about Japan and its culture. The workshop is given by the staff of the Center for East Asian Studies at the University of Kansas. Teachers attending the workshop are provided with ideas and material to use in their classrooms and with their students. Attendance is limited to K-12 teachers who have pre-registered for the workshop. The name of this year’s workshop is “Playdate 2008: Children’s Games of Japan.” This workshop for K-12 educators will focus on games children play in Japan. The workshop will feature a short presentation on games followed by three hands-on sessions in which teachers will be introduced to Kagome, Mikan no hana saku oka and Daruma san Ga Koronda, three popular children’s games they can 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 Kikuko Taguchi, both K.U. graduate students.

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MUSICAL WORKSHOPS Musical workshop admittance is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit on the number of participating 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 prior to the scheduled start time. Following is a list of musical workshops, times and rooms.

TAIKO DRUM WORKSHOP DENVER TAIKO 12:30 p.m. Polsky Theatre Up 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 WORKSHOPS MS. YOKO HIRAOKA 11:15 a.m. (KOTO) and 12:15 p.m. (BIWA) Carlsen Center – CC 331 Up to 6 participants per session

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

SHAKUHACHI WORKSHOP MR. DAVID WHEELER 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Carlsen Center – CC 312 Up to 6 participants per session

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

SHAMISEN WORKSHOP MS. TAEKO FUKUCHI 2 and 3 p.m. Carlsen Center – CC 312 Up to 6 participants per session

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

YOSAKOI DANCE WORKSHOP THE K-STATE YOSAKOI DANCE GROUP 3 and 4 p.m. Carlsen Center TBA Up to 15 participants per session

Attend one of these workshops and learn the basics of Yosakoi dance moves. 22

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

IAIDO THE JAPANESE SWORD SCHOOL 4:30 p.m. Commons – COM 319B Up to 8 participants per session

Iaido is a Japanese sword-drawing art and is one of the traditional Japanese martial arts, or budo, that is concerned with drawing the blade and cutting in the same motion. A typical form consists of the draw and cut, a finishing cut, cleaning the blade and returning it to the scabbard, all without looking away from an imaginary 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 learn balance, grace and control, both of the body and the mind. The techniques themselves deal with many situations, 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 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 WORKSHOP THE KC KENDO ASSOCIATION and THE MIDLAND KI SOCIETY 4:30 p.m. outdoors in the Library Plaza Up to 20 participants per session

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 allows for full contact sparring with a low risk of injury. Attend one of these workshops and practice some of the techniques from practitioners of the art.

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DISPLAYS JAPANESE LANDSCAPE EXHIBIT BY KOJI MORIMOTO All 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 addition to plant material to create a peaceful expression of nature on a small scale. Mr. Morimoto is the owner of Japanese Landscaping of Kansas City and does an extensive amount of Japanese garden work in the Greater Kansas City area including design, installation, maintenance and trimming/pruning of plant material in the traditional Japanese garden style.

IKEBANA DISPLAY BY THE SOGETSU SCHOOL All day in the lobby of the Carlsen Center Ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. Take time to enjoy the several Ikebana display in the lobby of the Carlsen Center provided by members of the Sogetsu School.

BONSAI DISPLAY BY THE BONSAI SOCIETY OF GREATER KANSAS CITY All day in the second floor lobby of the Carlsen Center The Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City has been in existence since 1968 and was formed to promote the interest and appreciation of the art of bonsai through education, training, information and exhibitions. We are privileged to have the Society provide an exhibition of a wide variety of bonsai styles and plant material for our Festival again this year. Society members will be at the exhibit 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 of the most famous Torii gate in all of Japan. The Torii gate at the Festival is approximately 14-feet tall and the top 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 in Hiroshima 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 a four-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 two upright supports and two crossbars at the top and is usually painted vermilion (a orange/red color). Some Torii have tablets with writing mounted between the crossbars.

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JAPANESE INFORMATION BOOTHS THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BOOTHS ARE LOCATED ON 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

Map of JAPAN 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 in America).

Hokkaido

Honshu

Kyushu

Shikoku

Okinawa

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FUN FACTS ABOUT JAPAN AREA AND POPULATION OF JAPAN CALIFORNIA 153,330 square miles Population: 33,900,000 JAPAN 145,883 square miles Population: 127,500,000

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

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FUN FACTS AND INFORMATION THE MARTIAL ARTS IAIDO Iaido is a Japanese sword-drawing art and is one of the traditional Japanese martial arts, or budo, that is concerned with drawing the blade and cutting in the same motion. A typical form consists of the draw and cut, a finishing cut, cleaning the blade and returning it to the scabbard, all without looking away from an imaginary 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 learn balance, grace and control, both of the body and the mind. The techniques themselves deal with many situations, 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 countless and 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 philosophy that originated in Japan. Judo is the successor to jujutsu (“to conquer by yielding or compliance”) which stressed unarmed combat against armed opponents and was studied by samurai to complement their sword and spear techniques. Judo uses the principle of using an opponent’s strength against him or her and adapting well to changing circumstances. For example, if the attacker was to push against their opponent, they would find their opponent stepping to the side and allowing (usually with the aid of a foot to trip them up) their momentum to throw them forward (the reverse being true for pulling). Judo assumes that there are two main phases of combat: the standing (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 Ryu is the oldest still existing martial art in Japan. Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu was founded in 1447 by Izasa Ienao. It is considered to be the most distinguished of all Japanese martial traditions, and as such was designated an intangible cultural treasure by the Japanese government in April of 1960. Katori Shinto Ryu came to influence many of the major styles which were developed later. Originally, Katori Shinto Ryu was created from the standpoint of fighting on the battlefield. The weapons used, the techniques and the philosophy of the style reflect this orientation. It is a true battlefield art, created at a time when Japan was 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 more pure military studies such as encampment and field fortification strategies. The overall philosophy seems to revolve around the concept of producing well-rounded and balanced soldiers who are proficient in a variety of battlefield weapons and strategies. Thus, Katori Shinto Ryu is a military art. 27

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FUN FACTS AND INFORMATION THE MARTIAL ARTS

KENDO The art of Kendo derives from sword skills developed by samurai of the 12th century. During the 14th to 16th centuries in Japan, accomplished swordsmen opened schools to teach the “art of the sword.” The more peaceful Edo period (1600 to 1868) saw the moral and spiritual elements of the practice come to the forefront, and the art continued. Kendo practitioners train using a bamboo sword called a shinai. They wear a face mask and body armor called bogu that allows for full contact sparring with a low risk of injury.

KI-AIKIDO Ki-Aikido (Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido – Aikido with Mind and Body Unified) is a particular school of Aikido. Aikido is a modern martial art developed from traditional Jujitsu, Ken (sword) and Yari (spear) arts. Entirely defensive, Aikido is not a sport (there are no competitions) nor is it a technique for fighting. Rather it is a dynamic self-defense form, utilizing throws and joint locks. Ki-Aikido puts particular emphasis on “Ki (Life Force) Development” as a way to promote relaxation and overall body awareness. By developing “Ki” and a greater understanding of it through meditation and breathing techniques, Ki-Aikido practitioners are better able to utilize and manipulate their own – and their attackers – Ki when executing Aikido techniques.

JINMUKAN The Jinmukan Japanese Sword Fighting School teaches various forms of Japanese sword arts including Iaijutsu, Iaido, Kenjutsu and in Bojutsu (long staff) and Naginatajutsu (halberd, a long-bladed weapon). “Jin-mu-kai” means “Divine Martial Arts Association.” 28

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FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTORS The Greater Kansas City Japan Festival Committee wants to take this opportunity to 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

YOKOZUNA SUMO GRAND CHAMPION ($1,000 OR MORE) Consulate General of Japan at Chicago DST Systems, Inc. Miller and Company, P.C.

Renewal by Andersen Sunderland Foundation

OZEKI SUMO CHAMPION ($500 OR MORE) Dr. Mary Davidson Cohen Gojo Japanese Steak House Haas Drilling Company Darlene Jones Kansas City Life Insurance Company Kawasaki Motors Pack America Corporation

Pat Riha Productions Sony Electronics Corporation University of Kansas Center for East Asian Studies William T. Kemper Foundation

SEKIWAKE SUMO CHAMPION ($250 OR MORE) Dennis and Taiko Dolan Dr. Douglas and Mizuki McGregor Kay-See Dental Manufacturing Company Nippon Chiropractic and Acupuncture One-Bite Japanese Grill Consul General Takeo Shibata and Ms. Mieko Ikegame

Siki Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar Sokkia Jim Steele Ben and Yumiko Tompkins Jo and Yoshiko Yamanaka

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. 29

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PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER Bonsai Society of Greater Kansas City

Ki Society

Consulate General of Japan at Chicago

Ki Daiko (Olathe High School Taiko Group)

Glendale Elementary School

KU Okinawa Dance Group

Heart of America Japan-America Society

Novak Associates

Independence / Higashimurayama Sister City Committee

Mr. Ben Oki

Japan Club of Kansas City

Ottawa Suzuki Strings

Japan Culture Club

Other martial arts groups

Japanese Landscaping

Shawnee Mission Center for International Studies

J–Band

Sogetsu School of Ikebana

JET Alumni Association

University of Kansas Center for East Asian Studies

Johnson County Community College

University of Kansas Study Abroad

Kansas City Igo and Shogi Club Kansas City Japanese School KC Kendo Association Kansas City/ Kurashiki Sister City Committee K-State Yasakoi Dance Group

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Olathe School District

And many talented and dedicated groups and individuals.

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GKC JAPAN FESTIVAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Executive Director: Francis Lemery JCCC 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

Festival Art Designer: Tadashi Isozaki Mr. Isozaki created the beautiful Festival poster design, the front cover of the Festival program, our postcard fliers and the AMC movie clip that was shown on AMC movie screens during late August and September. Isozaki is a graphic designer in British Colombia, Canada.

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2009 Greater Kansas City

FESTIVAL Johnson County Community College Visit www.gkcjapanfestival.com for dates of 2009 Festival.