Miyako Odori is a special performance by maiko
(apprentice geisha) and geisha (courtesans), which is
accompanied by shamisen music (nagauta) and narrative
music (joruri). In the one program there are eight scene
changes that reflect the seasons changing in Japan.
These performances are an annual event that lasts from
April 1st to 30th. The schedule coincides with the peak of
cherry blossom season. Miyako Odori is not only enjoyed
by Japanese people, but by foreigners too. It is a popular
event where all the performances are usually sold out
since the building can hold 900 people at a time.
The first performance of Miyako Odori was in 1872 as
part of the Exhibition for the Promotion of Domestic
Industry at a time where feudalism was being shunned.
This was due to the fact that the nation’s capital was
moved from Kyoto to Tokyo and caused a decline in the
city. Emperor Meiji wanted a capital based on western
influences and Kyoto represented the old traditional
ways. Miyako Odori showcased traditional arts that
helped bring national recognition to Kyoto.
The performances were created and choreographed by
Yachio Inoue the III, the master of the Kyomai Dance
School, as a request from the vice governor of Kyoto at
the time, Masanao Makimura. Today the performances
are handled by the Kyomai Dance School under the
instruction of Yachio Inoue the V, who is listed as a Living
National Treasure. Aside from the first year the Miyako
Odori was held it has always been performed in the Gion
Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre.
Inside the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre there are a
variety options available to choose from. The cheapest
seats are on a tatami mats on the floor. If that is not the
experience you are looking for then you can opt for the
reserved seats that include a small tea ceremony about
one hour before the actual performance. Regardless of
where you are located within the theater, the Miyako
Odori is worth it.
