Nohgaku Workshop (Japanese Culture Workshop) 2026
On July 8, 2026, the Center for Japanese Language and Culture held a Nohgaku Workshop 2026. Approximately 30 participants, including students attending the Summer School program who had been studying at Gifu University since June this year, took part in the workshop and enjoyed experiencing one of Japan's most distinguished traditional performing arts.
Since 2005, the Center has organized an annual workshop featuring professional Noh performers. This year, we welcomed four distinguished instructors: Mr. MIKATA Madoka and Mr. TAMOI Hiromichi who perform Noh drama as main actors called "shite" in Kanze School. Mr. SHIGEYAMA Chuzaburo and Mr. YAMAGUCHI Koudo, both of whom are Kyogen drama performers in Okura School. They provided participants with valuable insights into the appeal and artistry of Nohgaku.
The workshop featured a live performance of the shimai (dance excerpt) "Iwafune," lectures on the history of Nohgaku and its musical instruments, practice of the chant "Takasago," explanations of the differences between the masks used in Noh and Kyogen, and the expression of laughter in Kyogen. Participants also watched performances of the Kyogen play "Neongyoku" and the Noh play "Adachigahara," and learned about traditional Noh costumes, gaining first-hand experience of the profound world of Nohgaku.
To ensure that international students with limited Japanese proficiency could fully participate, explanations were provided in both Japanese and English. The workshop offered a rare opportunity for international students to experience authentic Noh and Kyogen performances -- arts that are not easily accessible in everyday life. Even after the workshop concluded, many participants remained to examine the instruments and masks and enthusiastically ask questions of the instructors.
Gifu University will continue to actively provide opportunities for international exchange and cultural experiences that connect international students, the local community, and Japanese culture.
