On January 6 and 7, 2025, a New Year's event, "The Ceremony of Kamiatsuki," was held at the exclusive Ginza club Cachet. Hachimine visited this event. He had a luxurious experience of experiencing the traditional Japanese "Shishimai" lion dance in a sophisticated Ginza setting. We bring you this report with stories of this special experience, a perfect start to the New Year.
▼ What this article reveals
- What kind of place is Ginza Club Cachet?
- Overview of the New Year's Event "The Ceremony of the Gods".
- The meaning of the lion dance to ward off bad luck and increase luck
- Hachimine's experience of the "Kantsuki Ceremony".
- Ayane Office's Role in Promoting Japanese Culture
- Data on growing demand for traditional culture at home and abroad
- Professionals behind lion dance events
- The Importance of Adapting Japanese Culture to Modern Times
- Event Participant Comments and Reactions
- Possibilities of Traditional Culture for the Next Generation
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Table of Contents
Attraction of Ginza Club Cachet
Located in the heart of Ginza, Cachet was established in 2010 as a hideaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, and renovated in 2015, the restaurant's simple, sophisticated black interior allows you to discover new charms every time you visit.
The atmosphere, a fusion of Ginza's history and modern design, does not disappoint those seeking a special time. Hachimine was also impressed by the atmosphere, saying, "This atmosphere is both sophisticated and comfortable, which is typical of Ginza.
- establishment (of a business, etc.): 2010
- renovation: 2015
- Space Features: Modern and relaxed design with black as the base color
What is the New Year's event "Kami Tsuki no Ritual"?
The "KAMITSUKI Ceremony," held for two days only on January 6 and 7, is a special event to pray for good luck and to ward off bad luck through the traditional Japanese performing art of "Shishimai" (lion dance). The name "kamitsuki" comes from the fact that the act of biting the head of a lion dance signifies "divine blessings.
Attraction of Shishimai (lion dance)
As the event began, the sounds of a transverse flute and drums echoed through the restaurant, and a duo dressed in white appeared. A lion dance then appeared and performed a ritual of biting the head of each visitor.
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Hachimine was one of those who experienced it. He looked nervous, but when the lion dance bit him on the head, he said with a smile, "It was a precious experience to receive luck in this way in the New Year. This unique ritual was very well received by the other visitors and provided an opportunity to reaffirm the appeal of traditional Japanese culture.
Ayane Office" that supported the event
The event was organized by the Ayane Office, which continues to promote traditional Japanese culture. Ayako Takahashi, the representative of Ayane Office, has gained extensive experience as a nagauta performer in Japan and abroad, and is working to connect the possibilities of traditional performing arts to the next generation.
Ayane Office Achievements
- Embassy and luxury brand reception appearances
- Independent performances at Tokyu Cerulean Noh Theater
- Stage production project with theater-style restaurant "Suigian
Mr. Takahashi said, "People tend to feel that traditional performing arts are too expensive, but we hope to make them accessible to many people through performances in such a casual setting.
For more information, please visit the website atAyane Office"
Hachimine talks about a special night in the New Year
After the event, Hachimine said, "It was a fitting experience to start the New Year by experiencing traditional culture in a special space in Ginza. I will never forget the powerful and unique atmosphere of Japanese culture that I felt through the lion dance.
He was deeply impressed by this attempt to fuse tradition and modernity, saying, "I felt it was a uniquely modern luxury to be able to experience traditional culture in an urban setting.
The Potential of Traditional Culture as Seen in Data
Data from events conducted by the Ayane Office show that traditional Japanese culture is attracting attention both at home and abroad.
fiscal year (usu. April 1 to March 31) | Number of events | Number of participants (Japan) | Number of participants (Overseas) |
---|---|---|---|
2014 | 12 | 800 people | 1,200 persons |
2019 | 18 | 1,500 persons | 2,000 people |
Year 2023 | 25 | 2,200 persons | 3,500 persons |
Expansion of Activities
- Number of events 2014-2023.doubleThe Activities have expanded and diversified from local to international performances.
- Domestic participants are the 2014800 peopleto 2023.2,200 personsand increased. Interest in Japanese culture is growing, especially among the younger generation.
Overseas Attention
- The number of international participants in 2014 was1,200 personsto 2023.3,500 personsTo. International activities such as inbound demand and embassy receptions are highly appreciated.
Significance and Prospects
- Japanese culture is reevaluated both domestically and internationally, contributing to the promotion of tourism and international exchange.
- It plays an important role in connecting traditional culture to the next generation.
The activities of the Ayane office are a good example of efforts not only to preserve tradition, but also to develop a new fan base while adapting it to the modern age. Further growth is expected in the future.
A special moment in the new year with "Kozuki