After strolling through the streets of Matsumoto from the station, discovering the Fukashi Shrine on the way, you will find yourself in front of an old Japanese house which is a school of one of the oldest arts in Japan: Nihon-buyo. Born in the Edo period, this dance is inspired by the movements of Kabuki and court dances. Here in Matsumoto, you will discover this art at the Matsukaze school, founded nearly half a century ago.

Demonstration of refined knowledge

To begin with, your host, the master of house Matsukaze himself, will amaze you with two totally different dance performances, playing a samurai and then a young woman from the court. You will see how the precision of gestures and gaze, as well as the use of objects, is important in the expression of this art.

Then it's your turn to go on stage. First you will have to put on a kimono, which by its sleeve and fabric movements will contribute to the precision of the performance. It is unusual but, in this school, it is the dancers who take care of everything: putting on the kimono, styling the hair and applying make-up. Once you're ready, you'll learn how to use your fan to express the movement of the petals falling from the tree or how to drink a cup of sake to traditional music. By following the master's simple explanations, you will quickly manage to perform the whole of a short-choreographed performance.

Discovery of a key element of Japanese gastronomy: miso

After working out on stage, what could be better than a good meal? A stone's throw from the dance school is the Ishii Miso Brewery. Miso is an essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Although it is best known for its use in miso soup, it can be used in many other ways. At the Ishii Brewery, you will learn how soybeans are fermented thanks to a mold called koji and under what conditions miso is kept in this brewery.

Once you know everything about miso, you can sit down at the table to discover different ways to enjoy it and compare how aging affects the flavor. The miso-based dishes are comforting and reminiscent of home cooking: hot soup, rice balls and pickled vegetables. After your meal, you can stroll through the adjoining shop which offers many miso-based sweets and you may be tempted by a small dessert such as their amazing miso ice cream.

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