#Japan #Yokohama #Hitohata #ASUKA III #KAGUYA

Dive into the Enchanting World of KAGUYA

As you step aboard the luxurious Asuka III, a new cruise ship launched by Yusen Cruise Co., you are not just embarking on a journey across the seas but also entering a realm of immersive artistry. A standout feature of this ship is its original performing arts program, KAGUYA, which premiered on July 21, 2025, at the on-board Lumiere Theatre. This innovative performance takes a deep dive into traditional Japanese narratives, prominently drawing from the Taketori Monogatari, recognized as the oldest existing story in Japan that dates back to the Heian period.

The Story Behind KAGUYA

KAGUYA is more than just a performance; it represents a collaboration of art and technology that brings beloved Japanese folklore to life. The folk tale tells the story of Kaguya-hime, a celestial princess who emerges from a bamboo stalk. The performance encapsulates the ethereal beauty of the moon, serene bamboo groves, and the splendid imagery from traditional Japanese screen paintings, skillfully wrapped in the elegance of dance and digital artistry.

Using cutting-edge technology, the show combines holographic screens and LED visuals that create a captivating tapestry where the audience is drawn into a mesmerizing world. The visuals, curated in conjunction with the dancers' performances, offer a new perspective on a narrative that has transcended generations.

A Unique Performance Venue

The Lumiere Theatre aboard Asuka III serves as a fitting space for such an innovative project, offering both an intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities. The theatre is set to host approximately 100 performances each year, each approximately 30 minutes long, allowing travelers around the world to savor the cultural richness of Japan while sailing. However, it's important to note that performances may vary depending on the cruise schedule, ensuring that each journey provides a fresh experience.

Behind the Creative Process

The mastermind behind this enchanting production is Takeyama Takuaki, the Artistic Director at HITOHATA, Inc., whose vision merges digital creativity with traditional performing arts. The project involves a plethora of talented individuals, including directors, choreographers, and technical designers, all collaborating to create this unique digital and performance interface. Together, they are reinventing how we experience arts at sea. The dances are choreographed by MIWA, and the visuals are directed by projectors and designers specialized in 3DCG and animation.

The Dancers of KAGUYA

The talented ensemble cast, which includes dancers like Hinano Kishida and Yuka, brings these stories to life with grace and flair. Their performances, combined with the spectacular visuals, create an experience that is both mesmerizing and thought-provoking. Audiences are not mere bystanders; they become participants in this immersive narrative that tells the age-old tale of Kaguya in a modern context.

Asuka III: More Than a Cruise Ship

To understand why KAGUYA is such a noteworthy presentation, one must also consider the essence of Asuka III itself. Launched on July 20, 2025, the ship represents a significant advancement in cruise experiences, boasting a gross tonnage of 52,265 GT, making it the largest Japanese-registered vessel. With 381 rooms and accommodation for approximately 740 passengers, Asuka III embodies luxury and comfort, alongside a commitment to introducing passengers to the nuances of Japanese art and culture.

The management encourages cultural appreciation and incursions into Japan's rich heritage, further reinforced through various onboard experiences and immersive events like KAGUYA. Passengers are invited to witness the convergence of technology and tradition, fostering a greater understanding of Japan's artistic landscape.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Experience KAGUYA

KAGUYA not only pays homage to the foundational narratives of Japan but also invites viewers into a dynamic and transformative world. It embodies the innovation of contemporary digital performance while honoring cherished traditions, all aboard one of the world's most luxurious cruise ships, Asuka III. If you find yourself traveling aboard Asuka III, make sure to catch KAGUYA for an unforgettable, immersive cultural experience that perfectly marries the past with the present.

With performances taking place regularly, there's no better way to explore this harmonious blend of technology, dance, and storytelling than by participating in this enchanting experience. Welcome aboard, and dive into the wondrous world of KAGUYA!