#Japan #Osaka #Expo 2025 #Japanese Culture #Miko Dance

70 Miko to Showcase Traditional Dance at Expo 2025

On June 3rd and 4th in 2025, the Traditional Culture Future Co-Creation Project will present a significant program named "Reiwa: A Tale of Four Seasons" at the EXPO Hall "Shine Hat" in Osaka, Kansai Expo. One of the highlights of this event will be a sacred dance performed by around 70 Miko from across the nation. Currently, they are intensively rehearsing under the guidance of renowned cultural masters, including Living National Treasures.

This event marks a unique initiative where the younger generation attempts to present Japanese culture as a form of physical expression on an international stage, an unprecedented endeavor.

The participating Miko have come together for the first time at Kinpu-ji Temple in Yoshino, Nara, preparing for the upcoming performance. This rehearsal is not just about refining their dance; it's also a vital opportunity for the participants to strengthen their bonds and commitment to this cultural expression. Many of these young women are not formally trained in sacred roles, but their enthusiasm for authentically engaging with Japanese culture is palpable.

A Journey Through Prayer and Culture

A member, Natsuki Mizuno, shares her thoughts, saying, "Standing on the same stage as Living National Treasures is both exhilarating and intimidating. At times, I questioned whether I belonged there. Yet I am determined to be part of this moment because of my deep desire to carry forward Japanese culture." Natsuki views her participation not just as a performance but as a sincere contribution to preserving the heritage of ancestral prayers and perspectives.

This performance not only aims to entertain but seeks to bridge the past with the future through the practice and presentation of sacred dance. The collaborative nature of this event, along with the participation of esteemed masters and cultural bearers, creates a powerful backdrop for cultural continuity and growth.

A Sacred Ceremony, Not Just a Show

"Reiwa: A Tale of Four Seasons" is characterized as a solemn artistic endeavor rather than a mere showcase. It integrates elements of traditional Japanese life, expressing spiritual gratitude and prayer throughout various celebrations and rituals. This event comprises nine chapters, incorporating aspects of Noh, Kabuki, Kyoto-style dance, and other art forms. Each act serves to connect audiences with a rich heritage, allowing each participant to become a witness to cultural preservation.

The narrative unfolds from the purification ritual on New Year’s Eve through to the New Year’s celebrations, spring poetry recitals, and autumn moon viewing, culminating in a prayer for world peace. Each scene acts as a sacred link between present lives and the wisdom of the past, nurturing future aspirations through shared experiences.

An Immersive Experience

While the Miko performance is a significant feature, the Traditional Culture Future Co-Creation Project will also present a series of diverse programs spanning six days from June 3rd to 8th. These include traditional Noh performances, dance, and even the participation of local people in collaborative activities. Attendees will not just observe but will be engaged in the richness of Japan's various traditions.

Within the event space, the Pop-Up Stage South will display an array of performances, while Gallery East will feature traditional craftsmanship and artistry from all 47 prefectures, offering visitors an immersive experience into Japan’s evolving cultural landscape.

Conclusion

The Traditional Culture Future Co-Creation Project aims to merge the old with the new, creating unique opportunities to connect different generations and cultures. By showcasing the power of Japan’s traditions, the project seeks to create a sustainable legacy of culture for future generations. In this historic moment, the spirits of the Miko will illuminate the path of cultural continuity, celebrating the profound beauty of Japanese heritage on an international stage.