Sakai City

The New Year is upon us and attention turns for many on resolutions for the year ahead. For those of you who have pledged to get out and try new things in 2019, here is a selection of fun things on offer in Kansai that will create a few memories – not to mention great photo opportunities. Sample some traditional Japanese art and culture There are many places where you can immerse yourself in the pleasures of traditional Japanese art, music, theater and dance. One of the best places to head to is the Gion district of Kyoto, home to the Gion Corner Museum of Contemporary Art. This venue hosts a range of performing arts, most notably maiko and geisha dancers performing the kyo-mai dance in traditional costumes. Also on offer is Kyogen theater, indigenous Gagaku court music and dance, and the wonderful Bunraku puppet theater. Sometimes, lucky visitors get to experience maiko and geisha dancers giving street performances close to the venue, while those really wanting to indulge can opt for a maiko makeover. Website: http://www.kyoto-gioncorner.com/global/en.html Experience the ways of the samurai Have you ever watched a sword-wielding samurai warrior gracefully executing their moves in a Japanese film and…