Japan House 20th-Anniversary Celebration

The lush, immersive setting of the University of Illinois’ Japan House mirrors the embrace of tranquility so central to its mission. For 20 years, this institution of the College of Fine and Applied Arts has provided experiential learning, exposure to new perspectives, and rich study of Japanese aesthetic and traditional arts. Upon its 20th anniversary, Japan House will offer a program that transitions from reflective to festive, beginning with Kosho Fukushima’s Shingon blessing accompanied by violin music and floral arranging. The event will continue with remarks from dignitaries and special guests, a tea ceremony offered by Urasenke Kyoto, lively taiko drumming from the Chicago-based ensemble Ho Etsu, Michiyoshi Sato’s contemporary tsugaru-jamisen musical performance, a traditional koto (both 17-string and 25-string) and shamisen ensemble by faculty members of Toho Gakuen College of Drama & Music artists, a kimono parade, and large-scale calligraphy executed by artist Seiran Chiba. The program will culminate with Bon Odori, a traditional style of Japanese dancing performed at festivals.