Japan Festival Workshop

Step into the fascinating world of Japanese masks. Not merely decorative pieces, these masks are rich cultural artifacts steeped in history, spirituality, and artistic tradition. 
This workshop invites you to explore the enduring legacy of Japanese masks, from their early use in ancient rituals to their powerful presence in contemporary culture. We’ll begin by tracing their roots in classical Japanese musical drama and uncover the spiritual significance of masks in traditional festivals, as wearing them fosters a deep connection to community and cultural identity. The journey will shift to the modern era, where we’ll examine how masks are bridging the gap between ancient aesthetics and modern storytelling. Through this experience, you'll see that Japanese masks are not relics of the past, but living traditions, symbols of continuity, transformation, and creative expression across generations. 

With a brief introduction to the diverse world of yōkai, this interactive workshop showcases various strategies and activities to effectively leverage yōkai in fostering cross-cultural learning and critical thinking in the classroom. Having emerged to explain various unusual phenomena, yōkai still play a significant role in Japanese culture, from traditional arts and festivals to popular culture expressions and everyday interactions. While many of these supernatural entities can be also used to impart proper behavioral patterns and morals, yōkai possess a far more complex nature that offers an opportunity to foster more complex understandings of values.