Step into a world of Japanese elegance, theatrical tradition, and refined hospitality with this exclusive private experience in Nagoya. Set within the historic Tamesaburo Memorial Museum, a nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property, this extraordinary program brings the centuries-old art of Kyogen theater to life in an intimate setting.
Once the residence of prominent businessman Tamesaburo Furukawa, the museum features exquisite traditional architecture dating back to 1934, surrounded by a tranquil Japanese garden. Here, a special stage crafted from Japanese cypress originally prepared for Kyoto’s famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) provides a remarkable setting for a private Kyogen performance.
Kyogen is a traditional form of Japanese comic theater that uses expressive gestures, witty dialogue, and playful storytelling to reveal the humor of everyday human behavior. Enjoy Onihikuzu, a lighthearted tale inspired by Japanese tea culture, performed by renowned Kyogen actors Matashiro Nomura XIV and Kosaburo Nomura of the Izumi School’s Nomura tradition.
Unlike a conventional theater visit, this experience invites you to engage directly with the performers, ask questions, take photographs, and even try on a Kyogen mask.
The cultural journey continues with a traditional tea kaiseki meal, a seasonal Japanese meal originally served as part of the tea ceremony. Rooted in the spirit of simplicity and hospitality, it celebrates the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients and the artistry of handcrafted tableware from the Tokai region, renowned for its rich tea ceremony traditions.
After dining, step onto the cypress stage yourself to enjoy matcha and traditional Japanese sweets, surrounded by the beauty of the garden.
With the entire venue reserved exclusively for your group, this approximately two-hour experience offers a rare opportunity to discover Japanese performing arts, craftsmanship, cuisine, and hospitality in a truly personal way.
Begin with a guided introduction to the former residence of Tamesaburo Furukawa, a distinguished Nagoya businessman. Discover the elegant sukiya-style architecture, built in 1934, and the traditional Japanese garden that surrounds this nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property. Learn about the residence’s history and its connection to Japanese art and culture.
Settle into the historic residence and enjoy a private performance of Onihikuzu, presented on a special Japanese cypress stage in the garden.
In this humorous tale, a servant named Taro Kaja falls asleep while grinding tea, prompting his master to place a demon mask over his face. What follows is a playful series of misunderstandings and comic exchanges.
Specially adapted for the Tamesaburo Memorial Museum, this performance by Matashiro Nomura XIV and Kosaburo Nomura brings the wit and expressive storytelling of classical Kyogen theater to life.
Following the performance, the actors will join you for an informal exchange. Ask questions about the story, the art of Kyogen, and the traditions passed down through generations of performers.
Capture memorable photographs with the artists in this intimate setting.
Enjoy a traditional tea kaiseki meal, a refined yet understated dining tradition rooted in the Japanese tea ceremony. Traditionally served before tea, the meal follows the principle of ichiju sansai (one soup and three dishes), highlighting seasonal ingredients and their natural flavors.
Each dish is thoughtfully presented on handcrafted tableware, primarily created by artisans associated with the Tokai Branch of the Japan Kogei Association. Discover how cuisine, ceramics, and the spirit of Japanese hospitality come together in this distinctive culinary tradition.
Step onto the very stage where the Kyogen performance took place. Surrounded by the Japanese garden, savor matcha green tea and traditional Japanese sweets in a setting rarely accessible to visitors.
Conclude your visit with a hands-on opportunity to try on the Kyogen mask featured in the performance. Experience a distinctive element of this centuries-old theatrical tradition and discover how masks help bring characters to life.
Tamesaburo Memorial Museum
A Mandarin, French, Spanish, German, or Korean-speaking guide may be available. Please contact the supplier in advance to check availability.
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. If no dietary information is provided, we will assume you have no restrictions.
This experience is booked on request. We will respond to the request within 7 days
| Cancellation Date | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| 7 days prior to the tour date through the tour date | 100% of the tour price |
| 8 to 14 days prior to the tour date | 50% of the tour price |
| 15 or more days prior to the tour date | Free |
Tamesaburo Memorial Museum
