{"id":56444,"date":"2019-11-28T20:00:23","date_gmt":"2019-11-28T11:00:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?p=56444"},"modified":"2020-08-06T16:20:26","modified_gmt":"2020-08-06T07:20:26","slug":"yamaga-lanterns-kimono-kumamoto","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/yamaga-lanterns-kimono-kumamoto\/","title":{"rendered":"Yamaga: Strolling the City of Lanterns in a Vintage Kimono"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>sponsored by Northern Kumamoto Administrative Headquarters<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Situated in <strong>Kumamoto Prefecture<\/strong> on the old Buzen Kaido road linking northern and southern <strong>Kyushu<\/strong>, <strong>Yamaga<\/strong> is a town filled with history, and visitors will be amazed by its numerous surprises. From the Edo period, Yamaga has been known for its hot springs, but they are certainly not the only points of interest in the town. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On every street corner, local product and tourist brochure, you will see the same motif: a finely-crafted, glowing <strong>lantern<\/strong>. I quickly understood that lanterns (<em>toro<\/em> in Japanese) are an essential part of Yamaga&#8217;s history and culture, and I was eager to learn more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"A manhole in Yamaga showing the Yachiyoza theatre and dancers wearing lanterns on their head\" data-id=\"56509\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-226\/\" class=\"wp-image-56509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091808\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga56.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dressing in an Old Kimono to Explore Yamaga<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before heading out to explore the town, I went to <strong>Kimono Otome<\/strong>, a small shop that occupies a traditional house where you can rent <em>kimono<\/em>. The pretty streets of Yamaga, lined with Japanese houses and old shops, make for a wonderful walk in <em>kimono<\/em> and are the ideal backdrop for taking souvenir photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this shop, you can find many beautiful old <em>kimono<\/em>. They come in every style imaginable and from different eras in Japanese history. So many options make the choice difficult for customers so Risa, the shop assistant, was accustomed to helping people choose their outfit for the day and certainly made me feel the part. I decided to go for a red kimono dating back from the Taisho era (1912 &#8211; 1926) in a surprisingly modern design. To enhance the outfit\u2019s modern look, we chose a belt (<em>obi<\/em>) that was adorned with pastel shades. Risa selected an <em>obi<\/em> that perfectly complimented the outfit, a decision best left to her expertise!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Antic kimonos on the shelves of Kimono Otome in Yamaga\" data-id=\"56476\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-193\/\" class=\"wp-image-56476\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091131\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga11.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Risa helping Cl\u00e9mentine to put up the nagajuban\" data-id=\"56478\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-195\/\" class=\"wp-image-56478\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091150\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga12b.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/wear-japanese-kimono\/\">It was a simple kimono and putting it on took just half an hour.<\/a> After helping me to put on the undergarment (known as a <em>nagajuban<\/em> in Japanese, a thinner kimono worn underneath the main robe), Risa adjusted my outfit with expert precision and skill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The only thing left to choose was the <em>obi-age<\/em> which is a type of knotted scarf that\u2019s worn above the obi when it&#8217;s tied in a style known as \u2018taiko-musubi\u2019). I went for a package called \u2018modern girl\u2019 with a black and white spotted <em>obi-age<\/em> that might have seemed unconventional but I felt it suited the contemporary style that we wanted to create!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Risa, adjusting Cl\u00e9mentine's kimono\" data-id=\"56479\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-196\/\" class=\"wp-image-56479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091200\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga13.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"A choice of colorful obi-age\" data-id=\"56480\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-197\/\" class=\"wp-image-56480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091219\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga14.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Tiding up the polka dot obi-age\" data-id=\"56481\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-198\/\" class=\"wp-image-56481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091230\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga15.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though the package is called \u2018modern girl\u2019, you could customise it however you wanted and weren\u2019t constained to that particular theme. <em><strong>Yamaga Asobi<\/strong><\/em><strong> <\/strong>(which translates as \u2018enjoy Yamaga\u2019) offers packages of various themes and the \u2018modern girl\u2019 includes kimono rental and a paper parasol as well as admission to a local attraction, such as, in our case, the <strong>Yachiyo-za theatre<\/strong> and the <strong>Yamaga Lantern Museum<\/strong>. You also have the option of wearing one of Yamaga\u2019s famous lanterns as headgear. This may seem strange and a little uncomfortable but the headdress is entirely made of paper and is surprisingly light! With my outfit complete, I was ready to wander the streets of Yamaga and learn more about its lanterns. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Risa adjusting a Yamaga lantern on Cl\u00e9mentine's head\" data-id=\"56482\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-199\/\" class=\"wp-image-56482\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091240\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga16.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Cl\u00e9mentine wearing antic kimono and lantern in the streets of Yamaga\" data-id=\"56483\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-200\/\" class=\"wp-image-56483\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091251\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga17.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit to Yachiyo-za Kabuki Theatre and Exploring Yamaga\u2019s Lantern Dance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The first stop on my stroll around Yamaga was Yachiyo-za Kabuki theatre, which was built in 1910 and classified as a building of great national importance in 1988. The theatre used to be a popular meeting place for the residents of Yamaga and somewhere to enjoy both theatre and cinema productions. However, the introduction of the television in the 1970s was the start of the theatre\u2019s decline and the building gradually fell into disrepair due to a lack of visitors. Many years later, the theatre was given a new lease of&nbsp;life and a large renovation project began which, upon completion in 2001, saw the building restored to its former glory from 1923. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Yachiyo-za theatre is again full of life and is the setting for regular performances by Tamasaburo Bando, one of the biggest stars in Kabuki theatre. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Yachiyo-za theatre facade in Yamaga\" data-id=\"56487\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-204\/\" class=\"wp-image-56487\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091352\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga24.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Inside Yachiyo-za Kabuki theatre\" data-id=\"56488\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-205\/\" class=\"wp-image-56488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091403\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga25.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Culture in Yamaga is represented in other ways, such as by the \u201cdance of lanterns\u201d. During my visit, I was able to see two dancers performing the dance. The local spectacle, connected to Toro Matsuri (\u706f\u7c60\u796d\u308a, festival of lanterns), is an event which attracts about 100,000 visitors each year to Yamaga. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It takes place on August 15th and 16th during the O-bon festivities and involves a diverse range of activities such as a torchlight procession and a fireworks display. The festival culminates in the impressive \u201cdance of 1000 lanterns\u201d, involving 1000 women, dressed in identical yukatas with illuminated lantern headdresses, made of paper, dancing in a circle.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Two dancers, performing Yamaga lantern dance in front of paper umbrellas\" data-id=\"56484\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-201\/\" class=\"wp-image-56484\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091311\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga21.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The dancers wear the same outfits and perform the dance throughout the year so it\u2019s possible to see it at any time. The dance is also reminiscent of the \u201cYamaga Toro Roman Hyakka Hyakusai\u201d (\u5c71\u9e7f\u706f\u7c60\u6d6a\u6f2b\u3000\u767e\u83ef\u767e\u5f69) which is held every Friday and Saturday in February. The town is decorated in paper parasols, bamboo and candles which gives it an enchanted atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you would like to attend this event, known as \u201c\u516b\u5343\u4ee3\u5ea7\u7269\u8a9e\u201d (Yachiyo-za  Monogatari), see <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.y-kankoukyoukai.com\/sp_page01.php\" target=\"_blank\">the timetable<\/a> online (only in Japanese). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"The two dancers standing in the dark, their lanterns glowing\" data-id=\"56486\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-203\/\" class=\"wp-image-56486\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091341\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga23.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Cl\u00e9mentine seated in the yachiyo-za theatre, a Yamaga lantern on her head\" data-id=\"56485\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-202\/\" class=\"wp-image-56485\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091321\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga22.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To fully enjoy the Yachiyo-za theatre, I would recommend the guided tour, even for those who cannot understand the Japanese explanations. Beyond the grand chandelier, the red lanterns and the 1920s-inspired ceiling, there are other areas of the theatre which can only be visited as part of the guided tour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"View of the Yachiyo-za theatre from the stage\" data-id=\"56489\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-206\/\" class=\"wp-image-56489\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091412\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga26b.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Underground corridor in the Yochiyo-za theatre\" data-id=\"56490\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-207\/\" class=\"wp-image-56490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091421\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga27.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>During the behind-the-scenes look at the theatre, you are able to go backstage and see the painted sets awaiting their turn and discover the inner workings under the stage that are used to make the actors appear and disappear. The tour also showed us the secret underground corridor which is used as an entrance and exit point for the actors to reach the <em>hanamichi<\/em>&nbsp;\u2014 an extra stage running through the audience used in Kabuki theatre. The corridor also features a hatch (called a \u201csuppon\u201d) which allows actors to appear or disappear in truly dramatic theatrical fashion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"inner workings under the stage of the Yachiyo-za theatre\" data-id=\"56491\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-208\/\" class=\"wp-image-56491\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091433\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga28.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit to Yamaga Lantern Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After wearing a paper lantern myself and seeing the dancers in action at Yachiyo-za theatre, I went to the Yamaga Lantern Museum where I was able to explore more about their history and learn the secrets of how the lanterns are made. The museum is in a former bank that was built in 1925 and regarded as an iconic western-style building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-11 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Yamaga lantern museum: a Wester style building\" data-id=\"56492\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-209\/\" class=\"wp-image-56492\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091455\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga31.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Paper lanterns displayed in Yamaga museum\" data-id=\"56493\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-210\/\" class=\"wp-image-56493\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091505\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga32.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The museum displays several Yamaga Toro lanterns, created from glue and paper using techniques passed down from the Muromachi period (1392 &#8211; 1573). The town is renowned for products made from artisan paper, such as Yamaga umbrellas and \u2018<em>kutami uchiwa<\/em>\u2019 dishes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yamaga\u2019s artisans have mastered the technique of making impressive pieces and they have created many buildings from paper, which can be seen in the museum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-12 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"56496\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-213\/\" class=\"wp-image-56496\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091534\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga35.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-13 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Interior of the Yachiyo-za theater, made of paper\" data-id=\"56497\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-214\/\" class=\"wp-image-56497\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091554\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga36.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-item__caption\">The interior of the Yachiyo-za theatre is made entirely of paper.  <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-14 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Detail of a buidling replica made of paper\" data-id=\"56499\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-216\/\" class=\"wp-image-56499\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091613\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga38b.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Kyoto's famous Kinkakuji made of paper\" data-id=\"56498\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-215\/\" class=\"wp-image-56498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091604\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga37.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of the Yamaga Asobi programme, a photo area has been set up where visitors can capture their visit to the museum and the walls of the building have been adorned with a blue background to make the overlay of images easier. There\u2019s also an area with coloured paper mobiles suspended from the ceiling which is the perfect place to capture a photo as it looks very modern. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-15 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"56495\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-212\/\" class=\"wp-image-56495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091525\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga34.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"56494\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-211\/\" class=\"wp-image-56494\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091515\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga33.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Learning to Make Yamaga\u2019s Lanterns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Seeing all the paper creations makes you reflect on the time required to master such a complex skill and it\u2019s difficult to fully imagine how it\u2019s achieved. The annex of the museum allows visitors to watch craftsmen make the lanterns and also gives you the opportunity to join in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-16 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Hads of a craftman, cutting paper to make a Yamaga lantern\" data-id=\"56500\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-217\/\" class=\"wp-image-56500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091625\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga41.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Participation in the lantern workshop is one of the activities offered by the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Yamaga Asobi program (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp.e.zh.hp.transer.com\/asobi\/program\/giboshu-lamp\/\" target=\"_blank\">Yamaga Asobi program<\/a> so I decided to make a small, modern lamp myself during my visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-17 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Class to make a paper lamp\" data-id=\"56502\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-219\/\" class=\"wp-image-56502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091644\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga43.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"The craftswoman showing how to stick paper pieces\" data-id=\"56501\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-218\/\" class=\"wp-image-56501\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091635\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga42.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This simple white paper lamp might seem different to the lanterns on display in Yamaga but it\u2019s largely due to the shape of the upper part. However, making them is certainly a lot of fun. First, make the shape of the lantern by piercing the paper with a cutter and a mallet then bend the pieces of paper, pushing out the small white fragments to reveal the holes and curving the paper pieces with a stick. The second part is the most important and involves sticking the pieces of paper side by side to form the shape of the lantern. It\u2019s a delicate job and requires a lot of concentration but the end result is very beautiful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I was exhausted, and I asked how long it took to master the art lantern making, to which I was told was 15 years. It really surprised me! My view of Yamaga\u2019s lanterns suddenly changed and I felt an overwhelming sense of admiration for the craftsmen and women who continue this tradition. I left the museum with my small, handmade lamp which, although far from perfect, was the ideal memory of a day full of discoveries and new encounters.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-18 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Paper lamp made during a workshop at Yamaga Lantern Museum\" data-id=\"56503\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-220\/\" class=\"wp-image-56503\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091707\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga44.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Relaxing Town<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>My visit to Yamaga centred around their famous lanterns but it was also a good place to wander through the ancient streets, especially along Buzon Kaido as the buildings remind you of a different period in history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-1 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-19 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Ancient streets along Buzon Kaido road in Yamaga\" data-id=\"56504\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-221\/\" class=\"wp-image-56504\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51-500x332.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091718\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga51.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another not-to-be-missed place is <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Sakura-yu (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga.site\/?page_id=1548\" target=\"_blank\">Sakura-yu<\/a> hot spring in a building that was built 370 years ago. Even though it was destroyed in the 1970s, it was eventually renovated in an Edo period style and reopened in 2012. For only 350 yen, you can experience the thermal water of Yamaga in a truly timeless ambiance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who don\u2019t have the time to visit Sakura-yu or don\u2019t want to experience the hot spring culture, there\u2019s a free foot spa (<em>ashiyu<\/em>) which is located just next to Sakura-yu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-20 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"56505\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-222\/\" class=\"wp-image-56505\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091727\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga52.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" data-id=\"56506\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-223\/\" class=\"wp-image-56506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091736\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga53.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The town is a nice place to explore on foot and you can find small cafes along the way to relax. During our trip, we stumbled upon Antique &amp; Cafe Ide and were immediately captivated by its laid back atmosphere. You can try their coffee, tea or pastries, served from vintage porcelain, while browsing Japanese and Western-style antiques. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-21 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Retro atmosphere at Antique &amp; Cafe Ide\" data-id=\"56508\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-225\/\" class=\"wp-image-56508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091756\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga55.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"681\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54-681x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Cl\u00e9mentine wearing antic kimono in the retro cafe Antique &amp; Cafe Ide\" data-id=\"56507\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/sony-dsc-224\/\" class=\"wp-image-56507\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54-681x1024.jpg 681w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54-332x500.jpg 332w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54-1021x1536.jpg 1021w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22091746\/voyapon_kumamoto_yamaga54.jpg 851w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px\" \/><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access and Practical Information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While a car is the best way to travel around Northern Kumamoto, it\u2019s possible to get to Yamaga by bus. From Kumamoto, it takes about 1 hour by train and bus and from Hakata (Fukuoka), it\u2019s about 1 hour 30 minutes, You can find more detailed information about how to get there on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"this page (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp.e.zh.hp.transer.com\/access\/\" target=\"_blank\">this page<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note that a free shuttle bus serves 4 towns in Northern Kumamoto: Tamana, Nagomi, Yamaga and Kikuchi. The shuttle departs from Kumamoto airport and JR Kumamoto Station. You can find more information on<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" this website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kyusanko.co.jp\/kenhoku_shuttlebus\/\" target=\"_blank\"> this website<\/a> and <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"this PDF document (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/12183340\/1d87ffb46f7a9fd23409e65b925a53a7.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">this PDF document<\/a>. (This shuttle only operates in November 2019 and January and February 2020). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">About Yamaga and Yamaga Asobi Program<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Yamaga Tourist Information Office<\/strong> provides information on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"their website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp.e.zh.hp.transer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">their website<\/a> about the town as well as the Yamaga Asobi program. You can also find more information about the region on the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Kikuchi Rover Basin - World Heritage website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp\/asobi\/\" target=\"_blank\">Kikuchi Rover Basin &#8211; World Heritage website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Otome Kimono Rental<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you would like to rent a kimono in Yamaga, check out <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Kimono Otome (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/kimono-otome.com\/new\/\" target=\"_blank\">Kimono Otome<\/a> (only in Japanese). I went for the \u201cmodern girl\u201d\/\u201cmodern boy\u201d package and this can be organised through the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/reserva.be\/kimono\/reserve?mode=service_staff&amp;search_evt_no=b7eJwzNDA1s7QAAAQ8AT4&amp;simple=1\" target=\"_blank\">website<\/a> as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Yachiyo-za Theatre and Yamaga Lantern Museum<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Information about the theatre can be found on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"this page (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga.site\/?page_id=2\" target=\"_blank\">this page<\/a> and about the museum on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"this page (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp.e.zh.hp.transer.com\/spot\/1190\/\" target=\"_blank\">this page<\/a>. You will find more information about Sakura-yu hot spring on <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"this page (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/yamaga-tanbou.jp.e.zh.hp.transer.com\/spot\/1186\/\" target=\"_blank\">this page<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/0\/embed?mid=1u6WFnZrd34UvVv0t5YffL5cXe-ww5FCA&amp;hl=en\" width=\"650\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Access to Yamaga From Other Areas<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>From Fukuoka Airport:<\/strong> about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car<br><strong>From Oita Airport: <\/strong>about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car<br><strong>From Kumamoto Airport:<\/strong> about 50 minutes by car<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Translation by <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/author\/markw\/\" target=\"_blank\">Mark Webster<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>sponsored by Northern Kumamoto Administrative Headquarters Situated in Kumamoto Prefecture on the old Buzen Kaido road linking northern and southern&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":96,"featured_media":56637,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pgc_meta":"","_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","footnotes":""},"categories":[24,1415,1],"tags":[1309,1354,2064,2065,1398,1322,1299,1312,1722,1324,2061,1362],"class_list":{"0":"post-56444","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-activities","8":"category-kyushu","9":"category-sponsored","10":"tag-art","11":"tag-cafe","12":"tag-crafts-making","13":"tag-cultural-activities","14":"tag-history","15":"tag-kimono","16":"tag-kumamoto","17":"tag-museum","18":"tag-old-town","19":"tag-onsen","20":"tag-performing-arts","21":"tag-tradition"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin 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