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Must-See Art and Cultural Hotspots in Japan

Art Festivals & Events

Weaving with Manyo Flowers: 'Nara Manyo Hanaemaki' (Flower Picture Scroll)

Emperor Tenmu, who ascended to the throne at Asuka Kiyomihara Palace 1350 years ago, is also recognized as one of Japan's eminent poets. This event centers around the "Manyoshu," Japan's oldest anthology of waka poetry, featuring poets connected to Nara, including Emperor Tenmu. They are represented by Manyo Flower Dolls—dolls crafted using Manyo plants. These will be displayed on the Nara Park Bus Terminal rooftop. Additionally, around the event period, there will be interactive sessions where participants can easily learn about Manyo plants and explore Japanese culture.

We will holding the following three projects to facilitate easy access to the Manyoshu, as well as Nara's history and culture.

Creating the Manyo Hanaemaki (Flower Picture Scroll)

Guided by renowned Nara calligrapher, Mr. Tokei, participants will draw flowers featured in the Manyoshu using Nara's local ink and brushes to create a large scroll-like artwork. Additionally, we will host talk shows and mini-concerts featuring Nara artists to convey Nara's allure in an enjoyable way.

Creating the Manyo Hanaemaki Together Image

Place: Paris Miki America-Mura Store
2nd Floor, Kurando Nishi-Shinsaibashi Building, 2-10-30 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka City, Osaka
Time : September 16, 2023 (Saturday)
Access : 5-minute walk from Exit 7 of Shinsaibashi Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line
Admissions : 500 yen per drink
Ticket : Please apply through the application form.

Manyo Hanaemaki Autumn Week

On the Nara Park Bus Terminal rooftop, we will showcase Manyo poets associated with Nara, including Emperor Tenmu, using chrysanthemums and Manyo plants, both specialties of Nara. Furthermore, large chrysanthemums cultivated by experts will be exhibited in the second-floor corridor. In the East Building's first floor, artworks created in "Creating the Manyo Hanaemaki" workshop will be exhibited alongside dynamic works by the calligrapher, Mr. Tokei.

Manyo Hanaemaki Autumn Week Image

Place : Nara Park Bus Terminal
76 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
Time : October 28, 2023 (Saturday) to November 5, 2023 (Sunday)
Access : From the East Exit of Kintetsu Nara Station, exit from Exit 1, then walk east for about 10 minutes
Admissions : Free
Ticket : Unnecessary
Link : https://www.pref.nara.jp/item/298605.htm

Kimono Dressing & Manyoshu Plant Ikebana (Art of Flower Arrangement) Class

Targeted at international visitors, this event offers insights into the Manyoshu and Manyo plants. Participants will have the opportunity to wear traditional Japanese attire and experience ikebana using plants featured in the Manyoshu.

Kimono Dressing & Manyo Plant Ikebana Class Image

Place : Nara Park Bus Terminal
76 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture
Time : December 22, 2023 (Friday)
Access : From the East Exit of Kintetsu Nara Station, exit from Exit 1, then walk east for about 10 minutes
Admissions : Free
Ticket : Please apply through the application form.
Link: https://onl.sc/x8VyYU8

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