Overview
As night falls and the world begins to slow, step into the timeless world of Gagaku, Japan's ancient court music,
and discover a tradition that has connected people, nature, and the unseen for more than a thousand years.
Unlike a concert designed for entertainment, Gagaku was traditionally performed in shrines and temples
as a way to create harmony between human beings, nature, ancestors, and the spiritual world.
Rooted in the Japanese belief that life exists within all things, its sounds invite listeners to experience a different relationship with the world around them.
Through stories and guided explanations, you will explore how concepts such as gratitude, reverence for nature, remembrance of ancestors, and harmony with the changing seasons have shaped Japanese culture.
After experiencing a live performance, you will dress in authentic Gagaku attire and step into the tradition yourself.
Wearing the ceremonial costume, you will have the opportunity to experience one of the instruments used in Gagaku, discovering how sound, breath, and presence come together.
The evening concludes with a performance of Bugaku, the classical dance traditionally performed alongside Gagaku.
Through music, movement, and ritual, you will gain insight into a uniquely Japanese understanding of wellness
—one based not on achievement, but on gratitude, balance, and connection.
More than a musical experience, this is an invitation to experience Gei-Dō
— the Way of Art, where sound becomes a path toward harmony with nature, others, and oneself.
The Way of Sacred Sound and Movement: 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 View of Nature
Explore the philosophy behind Gagaku and its role in Japanese culture, including gratitude,
harmony with nature, ancestral remembrance, 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 flute)
・Ryūteki (bamboo flute)
・Biwa (Japanese lute)
Experience the relationship between breath, sound, and awareness.
9:20 PM — Bugaku Performance
Enjoy a live performance of Bugaku, the classical dance traditionally performed alongside Gagaku.
Observe how movement and music unite to express harmony and balance.
9:30 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.