Gujo Dance Workshop 2025
The Center for Japanese Language and Culture hosted the "Gujo1 Dance Workshop 2025" on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Gujo Dance, one of Japan's traditional local performing arts, was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in November 2022 and is also designated as a Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset in Japan. Approximately 30 international students from China, France, India, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Spain, Thailand, Timor-Leste, the United States, and Vietnam participated in the workshop and enjoyed the opportunity to experience this traditional Japanese art form.
Before the workshop began, members of a kimono dressing group from Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, assisted students in putting on summer kimonos of their choice. The students later took group photos together in traditional attire.
Two instructors from Gujo City were invited to teach the students how to dance. During the workshop, participants practiced two of the most popular Gujo Dance pieces: "Kawasaki" and "Harukoma." The students carefully observed the instructors' demonstrations of hand and foot movements and worked diligently to master the dances. At the end of the workshop, commemorative gifts related to Gujo City were presented to each participant.
Students shared their impressions, saying, "At first, it seemed difficult to dance, but now I'm happy that I can do it," and "I want to learn more about Gujo Dance."
The Gujo Dance Workshop 2025 provided international students with a valuable opportunity to experience the culture of Gifu and Japan firsthand. Gifu University continues to serve as a hub for cross-cultural exchange for people from Japan and around the world.
1) Gujo is located in west-central Gifu Prefecture.
