Overview
As night falls, step into the timeless world of Gagaku and discover how sound has long been used to cultivate harmony in Japanese culture.
For over a thousand years, Gagaku has been performed in shrines and temples throughout Japan.
More than music, it has served as a way to express gratitude, honor ancestors, and create harmony between people, nature, and the unseen world.
Rooted in the Japanese belief that life exists within all things, Gagaku reflects a worldview that values balance, reverence, and connection.
Through stories and guided explanations, you will explore how these ideas have shaped Japanese culture and continue to influence the Japanese way of living today.
After experiencing a live performance, you will dress in authentic Gagaku attire and step into the tradition yourself.
While wearing ceremonial costume, you will have the opportunity to experience one of the instruments used in Gagaku, discovering the relationship between breath, sound, and awareness.
More than a musical experience, this is an introduction to Gei-Dō
— the Way of Art, where sound becomes a path toward gratitude, harmony, and connection.
The Way of Sacred Sound: Harmony with Nature and the Universe
Select the date & Reservation
This plan is a request reservation. It is not confirmed until we check availability and send a confirmation notice.
Location
「Sumiyoshi Shrine」
4 Chome-50-2 Takasagocho, Gifu, 500-8407, Japan
Price
The price covers gagaku lecture (history & philosophy), traning, rental uniforms and taxes.
Transportation costs are not included.
If you require transportation arrangements, please specify your request in the remarks section of the application form.
Schedule
8:00 PM — Introduction to Gagaku and the Japanese Spirit of Harmony
Explore the philosophy behind Gagaku and its role in Japanese culture, including gratitude, harmony with nature,
remembrance of ancestors, and the belief that life exists within all things.
8:10 PM — Live Gagaku Performance
Experience one to two pieces of traditional Gagaku performed by local practitioners.
Discover how sound has been used for centuries to create harmony between people, nature, and the unseen world.
8:20 PM — Gagaku Costume Experience
Dress in authentic ceremonial attire traditionally worn by Gagaku performers.
Experience how clothing, posture, and presence contribute to the art.
8:50 PM — Instrument Experience
While wearing traditional attire, try playing one of the instruments used in Gagaku:
・Shō (mouth organ)
・Hichiriki (double-reed pipe)
・Ryūteki (bamboo flute)
・Biwa (Japanese lute)
Experience the relationship between breath, sound, and awareness.
9:20 PM — Program Concludes
Carry home a quiet sense of gratitude, harmony, and lasting reflection.
※The start time is flexible. Please let me know what time works best for you
Dress Code
No dress cord.
During the costume experience, you will wear the gagaku court music outfits that we provide.
Please let us know your height and clothing size when you apply.
Payment
Payment in advance / Credit card JPY only
Booking deadline
Booking must be made at least 7 days before the experience date
Cancellation policy
・From 20 days prior to the experience date: 20% of the total experience fee
・From 14 days prior: 25%
・From 7 days prior: 50%
・From 1 days prior: 100%
Cancellation fees are calculated based on the scheduled experience date.
Further remarks
Please let us know in advance if you have any gagaku experience.
For those experiencing it for the first time, we will provide easy training and guidance tailored to your needs.
No alcohol permitted before joining.
Due to unavoidable circumstances, programs or workshops are subject to last-minute changes and cancellations.
If you are more than 30 minutes late without prior notice on the day of your appointment, it will be automatically canceled.
In such cases, no refund will be issued.
Select the date & Reservation
This plan is a request reservation. It is not confirmed until we check availability and send a confirmation notice.