A Traditional Tatami Room Dance by Sumiyoshi Shachu Kagoshima

This tour offers a fascinating peek into Japan’s past through a performance that’s more than just a dance — it’s a window into the customs and elegance that shaped Japanese women’s lives in the Meiji era. Set inside a 170-year-old traditional Japanese house in Kagoshima, you’ll witness the Ozashiki Odori, a dance performed in tatami rooms that echoes a bygone era. For those passionate about authentic cultural exchanges, this experience stands as a rare, curated glimpse into historical arts preserved by the Sumiyoshi Shachu.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines cultural storytelling with a tangible sense of history — especially considering the house’s authenticity and the dance’s continued preservation. Plus, the inclusion of seasonal sweets and sencha tea makes the experience feel complete, connecting you to Kagoshima’s local traditions. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the experience doesn’t include an English guide, so some explanations are in Japanese, but translation apps can bridge that gap easily.

This experience is perfect for travelers who are genuinely interested in Japanese arts, history, or traditional performances. If you’re looking for a quiet, immersive activity that lets you step back in time and understand local customs beyond typical sightseeing, this tour could be a highlight. However, if you prefer more interactive or physically engaging activities, this might feel a bit subdued. It’s also well-suited to those comfortable with a small group setting and open to a bit of language barrier with the dancers.

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Performed in a 170-year-old traditional Japanese house that offers genuine historical ambiance.
• Cultural Depth: Experience the Ozashiki Odori, a dance with roots in Japanese etiquette and entertainment of the Meiji era.
• Seasonal Flavors: Enjoy carefully selected sencha tea paired with seasonal sweets, highlighting Kagoshima’s local flavors.
• Language Considerations: No English guide included, but explanations are offered in Japanese; translation apps can help.
• Price and Duration: The tour costs $106.26 per person and lasts about 2 hours, offering good value for a cultural experience.
• Limited Accessibility: Near public transportation, but expect a small, intimate group (max 10 travelers) for a personalized feel.

The Historic Venue: A Step Back in Time

The tour begins at a meeting point in Ichikikushikino, within a well-preserved traditional Japanese house dating back 170 years. Walking into the venue, you’re greeted by tatami mats, sliding shoji doors, and an ambiance that instantly transports you away from modern life. The house’s authenticity is a highlight — it’s not a staged or artificially aged space but a real piece of history, offering a tangible connection to Japan’s past lifestyles.

The hosts and performers are from the Sumiyoshi Shachu, who have dedicated themselves to preserving this Meiji-era performing art. Their presence adds an air of seriousness and dedication, which we appreciated. The setting itself, with its quiet, respectful atmosphere, encourages you to slow down and truly absorb the cultural experience.

The Dance: Ozashiki Odori in Action

The core of the tour is the Tatami Room Dance, called “Ozashiki Odori.” You’ll watch as the dancers, dressed traditionally, perform a dance that’s rooted in etiquette, storytelling, and regional customs. Although the performers will explain the dance’s meaning in Japanese, you’ll likely catch the grace and symbolism through their movements.

One reviewer pointed out how “the dancers’ movements were delicate and precise,” making the performance a visual feast. The dance involves slow, deliberate gestures, often accompanied by shamisen music, which adds to the authenticity. Despite the language barrier, the dancers’ expressions and the choreography communicate a sense of grace, discipline, and cultural pride.

Seasonal Sweets and Tea: Tasting the Local Flavors

After the dance, you’re served Sencha — Kagoshima’s famous green tea — and seasonal sweets. This is a simple, yet meaningful way to connect the arts to the land and people of Kagoshima. The sweets change with the seasons, and the tea is freshly brewed, making the tasting a memorable part of the experience.

One guest noted that “the sweets were delightful — not overly sweet — and complemented the tea perfectly.” The pairing elevates the experience, turning it into a gentle sensory journey through local flavors and customs.

The Small Group Atmosphere

Limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel. This allows for a more personal experience, and you can easily ask questions or observe details closely. Some reviews mentioned that the dancers or hosts are happy to answer questions in simple English or via translation apps, which helps non-Japanese speakers connect more deeply with the performance.

Price and Value

At $106.26 per person, this experience might seem steep for some, but it reflects the rarity and authenticity of the performance, the historic venue, and the included tea and sweets. It’s a cultural activity that offers a meaningful dive into traditional arts, not a flashy tourist show. For those interested in Japanese etiquette, dance, and history, this is a worthwhile spend.

Timing and Booking

Most often booked about 68 days in advance, the tour offers scheduled sessions that you should reserve early to secure your spot. The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the dance, ask questions, and savor the treats.

Accessibility and Logistics

The tour is near public transportation, but travelers should arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in. Remember to bring your passport or ID, as required. The venue is a small space, so those with mobility issues should inquire further beforehand, but it generally caters to a small group setting.

Support and Communication

While there is no dedicated English guide, the hosts and dancers are friendly and willing to communicate through simple English or translation apps. This keeps the experience accessible for non-Japanese speakers, though some explanations may be limited.

Animal Presence

A fun, quirky note — the venue has cats, dogs, and birds roaming around. Animal lovers will find this charming, but if you’re allergic or uncomfortable around animals, it’s worth considering.

This experience is best suited for culture enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone interested in traditional Japanese arts. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy slow-paced, authentic encounters rather than high-energy performances. Perfect for those who appreciate small group settings and are comfortable with a language barrier, as explanations are in Japanese. It’s also a great choice for travelers wanting a meaningful souvenir beyond typical sightseeing.

This Tatami Room Dance by Sumiyoshi Shachu is a rare chance to see a living tradition preserved in Kagoshima. The historic setting, combined with the artistry of the dance and the seasonal flavors, creates a layered experience that goes beyond superficial tourism. It’s a peaceful, educational, and culturally rich activity that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s artistic heritage.

While the price might seem high compared to more conventional tours, the value lies in authenticity, intimate storytelling, and the chance to witness a performance that’s been passed down through generations. If you’re curious about the customs, manners, and arts of Japan’s past, this tour is a well-rounded, heartfelt offering.

In short, this experience is most suited for travelers who love exploring local traditions, learning through observation, and savoring cultural nuances. It’s a quiet, respectful journey into Japan’s elegant history that will resonate long after the performance ends.

Is there an English guide included? No, the dance is explained in Japanese, but communication can be facilitated with translation apps or simple English.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, including the dance, explanation, and tea/sweets.

What is the price per person? The tour costs around $106.26, which covers the experience, tea, and seasonal sweets.

Where does the tour start? It begins at a designated meeting point in Ichikikushikino, Kagoshima, near public transportation.

Can I book this experience last minute? Bookings are generally made about 68 days in advance; early reservation is recommended.

Is the venue accessible? It’s in a traditional house with limited details on accessibility, but it generally caters to small groups. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Are animals present during the tour? Yes, cats, dogs, and birds roam at the venue, which adds to the authentic atmosphere.

What should I bring? Just your passport or ID, and perhaps a translation app if you want to ask questions in English.

Can I join at different times? Yes, if available, you can contact the provider to arrange other session times.

This tour combines cultural authenticity with a serene, educational experience that makes it stand out among Kagoshima’s many offerings. If you’re seeking a meaningful connection to Japan’s tradition and history, this is a subtle but profound choice.