Rakugo – Japanese Comedy

MTC: 1st Floor

Rakugo 落語 is a traditional form of Japanese verbal comedy commonly staged in theaters.

Introduction to Reading Japanese

MTC: 1st Floor

Come to this workshop and venture into the world of written Japanese whether you are a student or just curious.

Fun with Japanese for Kids 1

MTC: 1st Floor

In this beginning workshop, kids will learn to say various everyday phrases and how to read some basic Japanese, all through fun activities.

Kanji Made Easy

MTC: 1st Floor

Is 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.

A Look at Japanese Game Shows on American Television

MTC: 1st Floor

In this presentation, Joshua Murphy will look at Japanese Game and Variety Shows and their effect on the American television landscape. Takeshi’s Castle, Ninja Warrior, Ultra Quiz, Shark Tank and America’s Funniest Home videos are some of the shows that will be discussed and seen in this panel.

Fun with Japanese for Kids 2

MTC: 1st Floor

This is a continuation of Fun with Japanese 1. In these workshops, kids will learn to say various everyday phrases, how to read some basic Japanese, and learn some Hiragana all through fun activities.

Japan Foundation’s Marugoto Course Books

MTC: 1st Floor

Come discover the new language levels of the Japan Foundation Standards and how to access the new coursework program for self-study and formal class learners.

Locally Hand-Crafted Taiko Drum

MTC: 1st Floor

Classified as a Nagado/Chu-Daiko, this Taiko Drum was crafted here in Kansas City by Hidden Ninja Taiko and follows the traditions of the Japanese Taiko builders.

Yukata and Kimono Kitsuke Portraits

MTC: 1st Floor

Volunteers will dress you in authentic Kimono or Yukata and take your picture with your camera/phone in front of a Japanese Backdrop.

Children’s Day (Boy’s Warrior) Doll

MTC: 1st Floor

Enjoy this beautiful “musha ningyo” warrior doll in a samurai costume. It is rare to see such an exquisite example of one of these dolls on display.

Japanese Cultural Village and Craft Bazaar

MTC: 1st Floor

Featured again at this year’s Festival is the Japanese Cultural Village operated by the Kansas City Japanese School. Young and old attendees will be entertained with many opportunities to experience the “real” Japan here in Kansas City.

Torii Gate Entryway to the Festival

MTC: 1st Floor

The large Torii Gate that leads all visitors into the Festival is a large model of one of the most famous Torii Gates in all of Japan at the Itsukushima Shrine near Hiroshima.

Ikebana Displays

MTC: 1st Floor +1 more

Ikebana is the art of Japanese flower arrangement. Take time to enjoy the Ikebana displays provided by members of the Sogetsu School.

Traditional Samurai Armor Display

MTC: 1st Floor

The Samurai armor on display in our exhibit area is a replica of traditional Samurai armor worn many centuries ago in Japan.

Japanese Hina Doll Display

MTC: 1st Floor

A traditional doll set is on display at the festival, usually displayed for celebrations such as Hinanatsuri, the doll festival, or Kodomo no Hi, Children’s Day.

Kimono and Obi Display

MTC: 1st Floor

The word Kimono simply means “things to wear” and is the traditional clothing of Japan. A sash, called an Obi, complements the kimono.