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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Kansas City Japan Festival
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T190000
DTSTAMP:20250729T161324Z
CREATED:20220927T145158Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T161324Z
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SUMMARY:Three Trails Taiko Performance
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Yardley Hall\nThree Trails Taiko Performance\nThree Trails Taiko is a community group\, currently consisting of approximately twelve volunteers. They have performed for local festivals\, relief events\, libraries\, organizations and business events in Greater Kansas City area. Their goal is to become better taiko players in mind\, body\, and spirit while sharing the tradition\, culture and art of Kumi Daiko and Japan with the surrounding community. Three Trails Taiko is available to perform for various events. Please visit www.threetrailstaiko.com for more information.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/three-trails-taiko/2025-10-04/2/
LOCATION:MTC: Yardley Hall
CATEGORIES:Performances
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/three-trails-taiko-1200.jpg
GEO:38.925129218653;-94.727653607154
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T180000
DTSTAMP:20250927T201141Z
CREATED:20240921T224737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T201141Z
UID:10000202-1759597200-1759600800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Rakugo (Japanese Comedy): Performance and Lecture
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233 • CRAIG AUDITORIUM • 5:00 PM\nRakugo (Japanese Comedy): Performance and Lecture\nPerformance and Lecture by John Marvin\nRakugo 落語 is a traditional form of Japanese verbal comedy commonly staged in theaters. \nThe performance features a lone storyteller who sits on a raised platform known as a kōza. Utilizing only a paper fan and a small cloth as props\, the rakugo artist adeptly portrays a lengthy and intricate comical narrative while remaining seated in the seiza sitting position. John Marvin will share interesting history and background about Rakugo and then perform an excerpt from a Rakugo play in Japanese with English subtitles provided.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/rakugo-japanese-comedy/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Performances
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GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T175000
DTSTAMP:20250925T223813Z
CREATED:20240921T223710Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T223813Z
UID:10000199-1759597200-1759600200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kaibyou - Supernatural Cats of Japan
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 5:00 PM\nKaibyou – Supernatural Cats of Japan\n(back by popular demand!)\nZack Davisson\, New York University\nAll cats are magical but the cats of Japan have their own secrets. \n\nIf they live long enough\, their tails split\, they stand on their hind legs\, and they start to dance. Bakeneko\, nekomata\, kasha\, and even the ubiquitous “lucky cat” called the Maneki Neko—come learn some of the secrets of these magic cats from Zack Davisson\, yokai scholar and author of Kaibyo: The Supernatural Cats of Japan. \n  \n\n\n\nAbout Zack Davisson\nZack Davisson is an award-winning writer\, translator\, and lecturer. He is on faculty at NYU in the Translation and Interpretations department and active in his fields.  He has won multiple Eisner awards and the Bram Stoker award. Respected in both academic and popular culture circles\, Davisson played a significant role in making Japanese folklore\, entertainment\, and literature accessible to English-speaking audiences. \n\n\nHe is a regular lecturer at universities\, museums\, and cultural institutes\, as well as appearing on podcasts\, on documentaries\, and as a guest at comic and anime conventions. \n\n\nCurrent projects include ULTIMATE X-MEN for Marvel Comics\, CAT + CRAZY for Dark Horse\, and THE ART OF SHIGERU MIZUKI for Drawn and Quarterly.  \n\n\nDavisson has worked with National Geographic and the Smithsonian\, and has been featured on NPR\, the BBC\, and The New York Times. His original works have been translated into multiple languages.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kaibyou-supernatural-cats-of-japan/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:All Things Yōkai,Cultural Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/supernatural-cats.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T165500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T171000
DTSTAMP:20250924T152107Z
CREATED:20221001T162532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T152107Z
UID:10000061-1759596900-1759597800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Aikido Demonstration: Aikijuku Dojo
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nAikido Demonstration\nNeil Segal\, Aikijuku Dojo\nLike Karate\, techniques are practiced to handle attacks of both an armed or unarmed nature. The techniques in Aikido contain mostly blocks\, locks and takedowns by the proper use of grappling techniques that are applied by trying to harmoniously get in tune with the attacker’s efforts.\nAikido stresses that fighting and endless conflict is never an answer. Rather\, peaceful resolution of conflict\, without causing harm\, is the greater path. So ‘Ai’ (harmony\, love\, collaboration) ‘Ki’ (power\, energy) ‘Do’ (way or path) is used to provide a way of cultivating and practicing the ‘art of peace’. \nAikido techniques are purely defensive\, force is never met with force. Practitioners learn to redirect an aggressor’s attack\, leading to a peaceful resolution. Size or physical strength is far less a factor in Aikido than it may be in other martial arts; so\, anyone\, large or small\, young\, or old\, can practice effectively. \nIn aikido\, as in virtually all Japanese martial arts\, there are both physical and mental aspects of training. The physical training in aikido is diverse\, covering both general physical fitness and conditioning\, as well as specific techniques. Because a substantial portion of any aikido curriculum consists of throws\, beginners learn how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned\, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents\, and techniques with weapons.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/aikijuku-dojo-aikido-demonstration/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/aikido-thumb-1.jpg
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T164000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T165500
DTSTAMP:20250924T151548Z
CREATED:20240919T204653Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T151548Z
UID:10000174-1759596000-1759596900@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Iaido Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nIaido Demonstration\nWilliam Perkins\nA demonstration of the martial art of Iaido.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/iaido-demonstration/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T173000
DTSTAMP:20250928T210300Z
CREATED:20221001T154321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T210300Z
UID:10000049-1759595400-1759599000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kanji Made Easy
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126B • 1st Floor\nKanji Made Easy\nInstructed by Tracie Whiting Kipper\nIs it possible to learn to read Kanji in less than a year? Try out the Heisig method of Kanji acquisition in this fast-paced and fun session while exploring the written word from authentic sources.\nTrue beginners and seasoned students will all find ways to expand their reading levels from average to extraordinary.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kanji-made-easy/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T162500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T164000
DTSTAMP:20250924T151129Z
CREATED:20221001T163501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T151129Z
UID:10000064-1759595100-1759596000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Karate Demonstration: Do Ryobu-Kai
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nKarate Demonstration\nFabio Rodriguez\, Japan Karate Do Ryobu-Kai\nA demonstration of the martial art Karate from Fabio Rodriguez of Japan Karate Do Ryobu-Kai\nTraining in the Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai (JKR) is conducted in the traditional Japanese method\, stressing discipline\, consistent attendance\, etiquette\, and hard work. Modern training in Shindo Jinen Ryu karate-do incorporates elements of karate\, aikido\, jujitsu\, and kendo in the formal curriculum\, with an emphasis on philosophy and education. \n\nAbout Fabio Rodriguez\nSensei Fabio Rodríguez holds a fifth degree black belt in Shindo Jinen Ryu Karate. He has forty years of experience in martial arts\, and has been teaching in the Kansas City area since 1999. Currently\, he is the chief instructor of the Kansas branch of Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai. \nAbout Japan Karate Do Ryobu-Kai\nJapan Karate Do Ryobu-Kai (JKR) is a martial arts organization with branches in more than 20 countries around the world. We teach and train in a form of traditional karate called Shindo Jinen Ryu\, which is one of the original Japanese styles of karate\, and one of the very first to be recognized officially.  We believe that karate is even more about character than it is about self-defense or competition\, and that it can make life better for all who practice it. \nIn addition to the punches\, strikes and kicks commonly associated with karate\, Shindo Jinen Ryu incorporates joint locks\, throws\, and takedowns\, making it a particularly well-rounded martial art.  Training within JKR is founded on traditional methods\, stressing discipline\, dedication\, and hard work\, with an added emphasis on philosophy and education. \nKarate helps builds confidence\, self discipline\, flexibility\, strength\, endurance\, agility\, balance and coordination – all while teaching students how to defend themselves and others.  Perhaps even more importantly\, it builds character while harmonizing body\, mind and art.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/karate-demonstration-do-ryobu-kai/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
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GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T161000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T162500
DTSTAMP:20250924T144428Z
CREATED:20221001T162805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T144428Z
UID:10000062-1759594200-1759595100@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Tessenjutsu – Martial Arts Fan Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nTessenjutsu – Martial Arts Fan Demonstration\nLori Bushner\nTessenjutsu (鉄扇術)\, “iron fan technique” is the martial art of the Japanese war fan (tessen). It is based on the use of the solid iron fan or the folding iron fan\, which usually had eight or ten wood or iron ribs.\nThe use of the war fan in combat is mentioned in early Japanese legends. For example\, Minamoto no Yoshitsune\, a hero of Japanese legend\, is said to have defeated an opponent by parrying the blows of his opponent’s spear with an iron fan. \nThe practitioners of tessenjutsu could acquire a high level of skill. Some became so skilled\, in fact\, that they were able to defend themselves against an attacker wielding a sword\, and even kill an opponent with a single blow. Like so many other Japanese arts of combat during this era\, tessenjutsu reached a high level of sophistication. \nApart from using it in duels against enemies armed with swords and spears\, the skilled wielder could also use it to fence and fend off knives and poisoned darts thrown at him. Like a sword\, the tessen could be dual wielded to parry with one hand and attack with the other. \nLori Bushner is presenting the tessenjutsu demonstration and workshop.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/tessenjutsu-martial-arts-fan/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/martial-fan-workshop.jpg
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T165000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221420Z
CREATED:20250925T225006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221420Z
UID:10000243-1759593600-1759596600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Good Luck in Japan
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 4:00 PM\nGood Luck in Japan\nTalk by Dr. Alisa Freedman\, University of Oregon\nCome learn more about Japanese lucky myths\, gods\, creatures\, charms\, holidays\, and rituals and how they inspire us in the US.\n  \n\nAbout Dr. Alisa Freedman\n \nAlisa Freedman is an Associate Professor of Japanese Literature and Film at the University of Oregon. She has published articles and edited special journal issues on Japanese modernism\, Tokyo studies\, youth culture\, gender\, television\, humor as social critique\, teaching pedagogies\, and intersections of literature and digital media\, along with translations of Japanese literature. She is Editor-in-Chief of the U.S.-Japan Women’s Journal. \n  \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/good-luck-in-japan/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T164500
DTSTAMP:20250929T154942Z
CREATED:20250929T154942Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T154942Z
UID:10000272-1759593600-1759596300@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Anime Screening: Flying Witch
DESCRIPTION:Nerman • Hudson Auditorium • Second Floor\nAnime Screening: Flying Witch\nFlying Witch is a gentle\, supernatural\, slice-of-life anime and manga about 15-year-old witch Makoto Kowata\, who moves from the city to the Japanese countryside of Aomori Prefecture to live with her cousins and train as a full-fledged witch. The story focuses on Makoto’s everyday experiences\, her relationships with her family and friends\, and the subtle\, hidden magic within the natural world\, rather than flashy spellcasting. It is known for its beautiful\, realistic animation\, charming characters\, and relaxing\, heartwarming atmosphere\, with a core theme of finding wonder in the ordinary
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-flying-witch/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T163000
DTSTAMP:20250928T203551Z
CREATED:20240921T224303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T203551Z
UID:10000200-1759593600-1759595400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kamishibai – Paper Theater Storytelling
DESCRIPTION:MTC 124 • 1st Floor\nKamishibai – Paper Theater Storytelling\nDanial Roy\nKamishibai “paper theater” is a traditional form of storytelling from Japan. \nTypically\, stories are presented using around a dozen large and beautifully illustrated cards with English translations on the back. The dramatic dialogue format is engaging for beginner\, intermediate\, and fluent readers. The size of Kamishibai storytelling cards makes it suitable for all size audiences\, and appeals to everyone. Join Danial Roy as he engages children and adults alike in these fascinating stories of old Japan!
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kamishibai-paper-theater-storytelling/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T155500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T161000
DTSTAMP:20250924T144343Z
CREATED:20240919T193614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T144343Z
UID:10000172-1759593300-1759594200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kenjutsu Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nKenjutsu Demonstration\nBy Charlie Williams\, Marishiten-kai School
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kenjutsu-demonstration/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T154500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T154500
DTSTAMP:20250929T141742Z
CREATED:20221001T150621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T141742Z
UID:10000214-1759592700-1759592700@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Garden Design
DESCRIPTION:MTC 224 • 2nd Floor\nJapanese Garden Design\nTalk by Koji Morimoto\nCome and hear Japanese garden master Koji Morimoto talk about the principles of Japanese Garden Design and Maintenance.\nHe will show how to balance all aspects of the garden and explain the techniques and principles of making an outdoor living space. \nMr. Morimoto is the owner of Japanese Landscaping Company in Kansas City. Koji Morimoto has designed\, built\, and maintained traditional Japanese gardens in New York\, Kansas\, and Missouri for over 20 years.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-garden-design/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/KojiLecture-1200.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T154000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T155500
DTSTAMP:20250924T144302Z
CREATED:20221001T161736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T144302Z
UID:10000059-1759592400-1759593300@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Kendo Demonstration
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Polsky Theatre\nKendo Demonstration\nJohn Drakey\, Kansas City Kendo Club\nThe art of Kendo derives from sword skills developed by the samurai of the 12th century called Kenjutsu. During the 14th to 16th centuries\, accomplished swordsmen opened schools to teach the art of the sword.\nThe more peaceful Edo period (1600-1868) saw the moral and spiritual elements of the practice come to the forefront\, and the art of Kenjutsu continued. \nKendo practitioners train using a bamboo sword called a shinai. They wear a helmet and body armor called bogu that allows for full-contact sparring with low risk of injury and gives the practitioner the ability to dynamically adjust to real speed attacks to a limited number of targets in a competitive environment. \nKendoka (people that practice kendo) use spirit\, sword\, and body in unison to successfully complete an attack against the opponent under strict adherence to proper technique. This attention to detail in the technique accompanies the action of meeting the opponent at full intensity but striving to develop character at the same time. \nThe school participating in the kendo demonstration and workshop is the Kansas City Kendo Club\, John Drakey.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/kendo-demonstration/
LOCATION:MTC: Polsky Theatre
CATEGORIES:Demonstrations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/martial-arts-1.jpg
GEO:38.925458397354;-94.727636310904
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T162000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221326Z
CREATED:20250926T223633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221326Z
UID:10000250-1759591800-1759594800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Zuihitsu\, Haibun\, and New Possibilities of Genre
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233 • Craig Auditorium • 3:30 PM\nZuihitsu\, Haibun\, and New Possibilities of Genre\nTalk by Dr. Andrea Stover\nZuihitsu is a form of writing in which the writer “follows the brush” and writes associatively\, and Haibun\, a form of travel writing that includes a short prose piece describes an object scene or special moment coupled with a haiku poem\, allows students to explore alternative genres to record the precision of their observations and thinking. \n  \n\nAbout Dr. Andrea Stover\n \nDr. Andrea Stover is a Professor of English\, Belmont University and Director of Writing at Belmont University and the Japan Studies Association Conference Co-Chair. \n\n  \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/zuihitsu-haibun-and-new-possibilities-of-genre/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/writing-with-brush.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTSTAMP:20250929T133231Z
CREATED:20250929T133131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T133231Z
UID:10000261-1759590000-1759593600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Travel Conversation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:OCB 246 • Second Floor\nJapanese Travel Conversation Workshop\nInstructed by Isoko Durbin\nA language workshop to learn about the basic travel conversations in Japanese.\n  \n\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-travel-conversation-workshop/2025-10-04/3/
LOCATION:OCB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.924376922342;-94.72850289963
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTSTAMP:20250930T223515Z
CREATED:20240922T154749Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T223515Z
UID:10000205-1759590000-1759593600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Ikebana: Japanese Flower Arranging
DESCRIPTION:NMOCA 212 • Nerman • Second Floor\nIkebana: Japanese Flower Arranging\nAnalise Todd-Colum and Sue Looney\nLean about Ikebana\, the art of Japanese flower arrangement.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ikebana-japanese-flower-arranging/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T155000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221224Z
CREATED:20250925T223254Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221224Z
UID:10000242-1759590000-1759593000@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Human Mask: Yokai and Yurei Wearing Human Faces in Japanese Folklore
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 3:00 PM\nThe Human Mask: Yokai and Yurei Wearing Human Faces in Japanese Folklore\nZack Davisson\, New York University\nIn a flip of perspective\, Zack will explain how Yokai are both the mask and the wearer of them.\nMany early tales from Noh theater and Buddhist literature featured supernatural creatures disguised as humans\, with the dénouement coming from when the human mask was dropped and the spirit revealed. This was continued through the Edo period and extends into today’s modern entertainment\, as yokai seek to infiltrate human culture for reasons entirely of their own. \n  \n\n\nAbout Zack Davisson\nZack Davisson is an award-winning writer\, translator\, and lecturer. He is on faculty at NYU in the Translation and Interpretations department and active in his fields.  He has won multiple Eisner awards and the Bram Stoker award. Respected in both academic and popular culture circles\, Davisson played a significant role in making Japanese folklore\, entertainment\, and literature accessible to English-speaking audiences. \n\n\nHe is a regular lecturer at universities\, museums\, and cultural institutes\, as well as appearing on podcasts\, on documentaries\, and as a guest at comic and anime conventions. \n\n\nCurrent projects include ULTIMATE X-MEN for Marvel Comics\, CAT + CRAZY for Dark Horse\, and THE ART OF SHIGERU MIZUKI for Drawn and Quarterly.  \n\n\nDavisson has worked with National Geographic and the Smithsonian\, and has been featured on NPR\, the BBC\, and The New York Times. His original works have been translated into multiple languages.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/the-human-mask-yokai-and-yurei-wearing-human-faces-in-japanese-folklore/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Masks & Myths Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/zack-davisson-duke-university-manga-translator.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T144000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T151000
DTSTAMP:20251001T212116Z
CREATED:20250725T160738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T212116Z
UID:10000225-1759588800-1759590600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Dance of Kagura Musume: Princess of Masks
DESCRIPTION:MTC: Yardley Hall • 2:40 PM\nThe Dance of Kagura Musume: Princess of Masks\nPerformed by Asuka Wakayagi Kichi Iijima\nExperience this captivating traditional Japanese dance performed by Nihon-buyō (Japanese Dance) Master Asuka Wakayagi Kichi Iijima.\n\nIn this performance\, master dancer Asuka Iijima brings to life the tale of Kagura Musume\, the maiden princess of the Shinto festival. \nGuided by the festive spirit of Edo-period matsuri\, the maiden dons five different masks\, each transforming her dance and identity into a new character: the beautiful princess\, the fearsome eight-headed serpent\, the mighty Shinto god of storm and sea\, and the comical duo Hyottoko and Okame. \nThis famous folklore story tells of a serpent named Yamata no Orochi who attempts to abduct the young princess and devour her. But suddenly\, Susanoo-no-Mikoto\, the younger brother of the sun goddess Amaterasu\, appears and after a fierce battle\, beheads the serpent\, sparing the life of the beautiful princess. Hyottoko and Okame\, two traditional comical characters\, discover the severed head of the slain serpent and react with exaggerated fear and astonishment. \nVictory\, humor\, and celebration follow as tradition and myth blend on stage with authentic costumes\, music\, and choreography. \nExperience Japanese storytelling at its most vivid — complete with traditional masks\, authentic costumes\, music\, and choreography. \n  \n\nAbout the Performer\nAsuka Wakayagi Kichi Iijima began her study of Japanese Dancing at age seven\, studying under Master Wakayagi Kichikomae. She has over twenty years of dance training. Her stage performances include: Hane no Kamuro\, Fuji Musume\, Kioi Jishi\, and Shigure Saigyo. She studied abroad for advanced academic degrees from 2000 to 2005 completing both master’s and PhD degrees. Since 2007\, she has been performing to popular Japanese ballads and local folk songs such as Yagibushi rather than traditional kabuki style music. \nIn 2021\, she was certified as Shihan (Master of Japanese Dancing ) and is preparing to open a school of dance. She received a bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and English Education from Keio University; a master’s degree in composition and TESOL (a certificate for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Indiana University of Pennsylvania; and a PhD Degree in Composition and TESOL from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Currently\, she is an English instructor at Keio University in Tokyo and serves as an English instructor and tutor for various academic institutions. \n  \n\nImage Credit\nWilliam Sturgis Bigelow Collection\, MFA Boston \nGozu Tennō (=Susanoo) and Inada-hime\, from the series Lives of Heroes of Our Country (Honchō eiyū den) \n「本朝英雄伝　牛頭天皇　稲田姫」\nUtagawa Kuniteru I (Sadashige) (Japanese\, active about 1820–60)\nPublisher: Shimizuya Tsunejirō (Japanese)\nJapanese\, Edo period\, about 1847–48
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/asuka-iijima-japanese-folklore-through-traditional-dance/
LOCATION:MTC: Yardley Hall
CATEGORIES:Masks & Myths Theme,Performances
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025-Ijima-Folklore-Dance-1.jpg
GEO:38.925129218653;-94.727653607154
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T153000
DTSTAMP:20250928T205915Z
CREATED:20250928T205915Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T205915Z
UID:10000256-1759588200-1759591800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Beyond Words: Nonverbal Language
DESCRIPTION:MTC 126B • 1st Floor\nBeyond Words: Nonverbal Language\nInstructed by Yosei Sugawara\nAttend this workshop to learn about nonverbal language used in Japan.\n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/beyond-words-nonverbal-language/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T153000
DTSTAMP:20250928T203053Z
CREATED:20231003T141854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T203053Z
UID:10000253-1759588200-1759591800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Karuta and Conversation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC 124 • 1st Floor\nKaruta and Conversation Workshop\nHeld by JIAH – Japanese Instructors Association of the Heartland\nJoin Karuta tables for future those who want to practice their character recognition skills\, as well as conversation tables with KU international students from Japan to practice conversation skills.\n\nKaruta tables for future Japanese Language contestants who want to practice their character recognition skills.\nConversation tables will be hosted by native speakers and KU international students from Japan and are open to any level of student looking for practice.\n\nMembers of JIAH are instructors of Japanese at high schools and colleges in Kansas and Missouri. JIAH meets every 3-4 months to discuss Japanese pedagogy\, upcoming Japan-related events\, and plan the annual Heartland Japanese Language Contest. \nInstructors outside Kansas and Missouri are also welcome to join.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/karuta-and-conversation-workshop/2025-10-04/2/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T153000
DTSTAMP:20251004T131353Z
CREATED:20221001T152222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T131353Z
UID:10000041-1759588200-1759591800@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Zen Meditation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC 224 • 2nd Floor\nMaking Space for the Unknown: Zen Meditation Workshop\nInstructed by Dr. Sarah Aptilon\nIn this workshop\, we will explore the basics of Zen meditation and how to practice it.\nIn Japan\, Zen ideals are woven into the fabric of daily life\, from tea ceremony etiquette to automotive assembly line production to the prevalence of non-verbal communication. As we try out Zen practice\, we will discuss several concepts that help to illustrate how Zen is understood in Japan\, including impermanence\, “mind-to-mind transmission\,” and imperfect beauty. \nA Kansas City area native\, Sarah lived and practiced at a Buddhist monastery in Kyoto for seven years\, where she studied and taught meditation and led workshops and retreats. She offers meditation classes at Turning Point through the University of Kansas Health System and teaches a weekly meditation class for the JCCC Student Wellness Program. She also serves as a senior consultant for Japan Intercultural Consulting\, leading multicultural teambuilding and cross-cultural communication seminars throughout the U.S. and Mexico. \nSarah is an associate professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Johnson County Community College\, where she teaches courses on world religions\, Asian religions\, and Japanese culture. She earned a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Stanford University and a B.A. in East Asian Studies from Yale University.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/zen-meditation-workshop/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/zen-meditation2.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T152000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221154Z
CREATED:20250926T154029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221154Z
UID:10000248-1759588200-1759591200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Their Land is Still a Forest: Ainu in Contemporary Japan
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233 • Craig Auditorium • 2:30 PM\nTheir Land is Still a Forest: Ainu in Contemporary Japan\nTalk by Dr. Stacia Bensyl\, Missouri Western State University\nThis presentation is a reflection of the famous works of “Our Land Was a Forest: An Ainu Memoir” by Kayano Shigeru\, a noted Ainu folklore expert\, activist and politician as a lens to explore the persisting myths and lifestyles of the indigenous Ainu of northern Japan in contemporary times.\n  \n\nAbout Dr. Stacia Bensyl\n \nDr. Bensyl is a Professor of English at Missouri Western State University\, who also teaches postcolonial and world literatures\, she is a guest lecturer with the Japan Studies Association. \n\n  \n  \n\nImage: Hokkaido\, Japan – Shiraoi Ainu Museum is one of the country’s best museums about the Ainu\, the indigenous people of northern Japan.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/ainu-in-contemporary-japan/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Masks & Myths Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Shiraoi-Ainu-Museum.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T170000
DTSTAMP:20251001T150651Z
CREATED:20250929T134553Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T150651Z
UID:10000262-1759586400-1759597200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Monster Mask Origami
DESCRIPTION:GEB 254 • 2nd Floor\nMonster Mask Origami\nInstructed by Michaela Blank\nIn this workshop participants will use their folding skills to make Monster Mask Origami.\nAlthough the models are not overly complex\, we still recommend that participants have previous folding experience and basic folding skills. Due to a limited number of helpers with origami experience\, and seats available\, we will be limiting the number of attendees to 30.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/monster-mask-origami/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Masks & Myths Theme,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/folding-origami.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T160000
DTSTAMP:20250929T154656Z
CREATED:20250929T154656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T154656Z
UID:10000271-1759586400-1759593600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Feature Film Anime Screening: A Letter to Momo
DESCRIPTION:Nerman • Hudson Auditorium • Second Floor\nFeature Film Anime Screening: A Letter to Momo\nA Letter to Momo is a Japanese anime drama film about 11-year-old Momo\, who moves to a remote island after her father’s death and discovers she is being watched by three hungry\, visible-only-to-her goblins\, leading to an adventure that helps her cope with grief and her mother’s absence. The film beautifully blends lighthearted humor\, drama\, and the spiritual themes of Japanese folklore\, with stunning hand-drawn animation and a focus on emotional depth.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/anime-screening-a-letter-to-momo/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Anime Screenings
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T145000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221132Z
CREATED:20250925T215918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221132Z
UID:10000241-1759586400-1759589400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:The Inner Life of Monsters: Noh\, Godzilla and Japanese Culture
DESCRIPTION:MTC 211 • 2nd Floor • 2:00 PM\nThe Inner Life of Monsters: Noh\, Godzilla and Japanese Culture\nBill Tsutsui\, Japanese History Scholar\nNoh theater and Godzilla may seem like an unlikely combination\, even though monsters\, demons\, and spirits appear frequently on the Noh stage.\nBy diving deeply into Zeami’s fifteenth century play Nue\, the heroic warrior tale of Minamoto no Yoritomo slaying a monster\, and the 1954 classic Gojira\, this talk will explore the surprising cultural continuities between a rich and ancient theatrical tradition and a popular cinematic form seldom associated with great artistry or sophistication. \n\nAbout Bill Tsutsui\nBill Tsutsui has served as Chancellor and Professor of History at Ottawa University since 2021\, after more than 30 years teaching modern Japanese history and holding a variety of administrative positions at the University of Kansas\, Southern Methodist University\, Hendrix College\, and Harvard University.  Among the eight books he has written or edited are Godzilla on My Mind: Fifty Years of the King of Monsters (called a “cult classic” by the New York Times) and Japanese Popular Culture and Globalization.  He continues to speak\, write\, and teach on the Godzilla movies\, monster culture in Japan\, and the environmental history of Japan and the Pacific Ocean.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/noh-godzilla-and-japanese-culture/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Masks & Myths Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/bill-tsutsui.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T145000
DTSTAMP:20251004T000730Z
CREATED:20250911T204717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251004T000730Z
UID:10000237-1759586400-1759589400@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Japanese Mask Workshop
DESCRIPTION:THIS IS A TICKETED WORKSHOP\nMTC 234 • 2nd Floor • 10:00 AM\, 11:30 AM\, 2:00 PM\nPurchase your ticketed workshops here. \nJapanese Mask Workshop\nParticipants in this workshop will explore the fascinating world of Japanese folklore linked to the prominent masks in Japanese culture and stories.\nEach participant will design and paint either a fox or a cat mask with additional options to personalize their mask with elastic\, tassels\, and decorative bells. All supplies are provided. \nEach workshop is 50 min in length\, limited to 25 participants\, and is best suited for ages 6 or older. One guardian is allowed to be admitted with a youth age 12 or younger.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/japanese-mask-workshop/2025-10-04/3/
LOCATION:MTC: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Japanese-Mask-Workshop.jpg
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTSTAMP:20251001T142634Z
CREATED:20250929T144733Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251001T142634Z
UID:10000265-1759584600-1759588200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Influence of Western Fantasy Gaming on Japanese Anime\, Novels & Manga
DESCRIPTION:NMOA 212 • Nerman • Second Floor\nInfluence of Western Fantasy Gaming on Japanese Anime\, Novels & Manga\nTalk by Ai Namima-Davison & Shawn Davison\nJoin Ai Namima-Davison & Shawn Davison from Level One Game shop as they cover the introduction of Dungeons and Dragons into Japan\, leading to the creation of the Record of Lodoss War novelization\, Anime\, and then Sword World and how these early influences have affected modern anime world-building\, writing\, and style.\n  \n\nImage: Main characters for the novel Record of Lodoss War: The Grey Witch. Illustrated by Yutaka Izubuchi.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/influence-of-western-fantasy-gaming/
LOCATION:Nerman: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Record-of-Lodoss-War-Characters.jpg
GEO:38.924880809544;-94.726821038974
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T143000
DTSTAMP:20250928T203053Z
CREATED:20231003T141854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T203053Z
UID:10000252-1759584600-1759588200@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:Karuta and Conversation Workshop
DESCRIPTION:MTC 124 • 1st Floor\nKaruta and Conversation Workshop\nHeld by JIAH – Japanese Instructors Association of the Heartland\nJoin Karuta tables for future those who want to practice their character recognition skills\, as well as conversation tables with KU international students from Japan to practice conversation skills.\n\nKaruta tables for future Japanese Language contestants who want to practice their character recognition skills.\nConversation tables will be hosted by native speakers and KU international students from Japan and are open to any level of student looking for practice.\n\nMembers of JIAH are instructors of Japanese at high schools and colleges in Kansas and Missouri. JIAH meets every 3-4 months to discuss Japanese pedagogy\, upcoming Japan-related events\, and plan the annual Heartland Japanese Language Contest. \nInstructors outside Kansas and Missouri are also welcome to join.
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/karuta-and-conversation-workshop/2025-10-04/1/
LOCATION:MTC: 1st Floor
CATEGORIES:Workshops
GEO:38.9251032;-94.7281012
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251004T142000
DTSTAMP:20250930T221102Z
CREATED:20250926T152213Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250930T221102Z
UID:10000247-1759584600-1759587600@www.kcjapanfestival.org
SUMMARY:From Art to Anime: Myths and Perceptions of the Ainu in Japan and the West
DESCRIPTION:GEB 233 • Craig Auditorium • 1:30 PM\nFrom Art to Anime: Myths and Perceptions of the Ainu in Japan and the West\nTalk by Dr. Jennifer Welsh\nSince the earliest records of the Ainu\, Hokkaido’s indigenous people\, have often been viewed through myths rather than reality.\nEarly Japanese accounts depict the “Ezo” as dangerous\, uncivilized\, and easily tricked. In the late 19th century\, Isabella Bird’s writings depicted them sympathetically but still framed their culture through Western ideas of noble savages. Today\, increased awareness and revival efforts\, including cultural centers and portrayals in manga like “Golden Kamuy\,” aim to present the Ainu more accurately. This presentation examines how the Ainu have been portrayed across myths and historical sources. \n  \n\nAbout Dr. Jennifer Welsh\n \nDr. Welsh is a professor at both University of Alaska Southeast  and also assistant professor of history at Eastern New Mexico University. \n\n  \n\n  \nImage: Shiraoi-cho\, Hokkaido\, Japan: Ainu woman making traditional clothes at the open-air Shiraoi Ainu Museum. \n 
URL:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/event/myths-and-perceptions-of-the-ainu/
LOCATION:GEB: 2nd Floor
CATEGORIES:Cultural Presentations,Masks & Myths Theme
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.kcjapanfestival.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ainu-woman.jpg
GEO:38.924261110731;-94.729228437157
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR