“The Sound of Hometown – Neo Japonism” Opens at Awaji Island’s Seaside Theater

Starting March 22, 2025, the original musical revue “The Sound of Hometown – Neo Japonism” will be performed at the seaside theater Naminoritei, located along the tranquil shores of Awaji Island. Running through May 6, this spring performance invites audiences on a vivid cultural journey inspired by the rhythm and soul of Japan.

■ A Musical Journey Across Japan

Inspired by the voyages of Takadaya Kahei, a famed merchant from Awaji Island who sailed from Japan to Russia during the Edo period, this show takes the audience on a musical journey across Japan.
Folk songs from various regions — including “Kōjō no Tsuki” from Ōita, “Tabaruzaka” from Kumamoto, and “Yasugibushi” from Shimane — are reimagined with Latin, jazz, and rock arrangements. It’s a celebration of tradition and innovation, where old melodies find new life in a festival of sound and color.

■ Featuring Top-Class Talent from the Japanese Musical World

The show stars Kenji Sakamoto, a former leading performer with the Shiki Theatre Company, alongside a cast of skilled singers and dancers including Chinatsu Ikeno, Hikaru Nakagawa, and others. Together, they bring the stories of Japan’s heartlands to life through energetic performance and elegant stagecraft.

■ Live Music, Japanese Taiko, and “A Living Art Gallery”

All music is performed live, including powerful Japanese taiko drumming that reverberates through the audience. The visual design draws inspiration from ukiyo-e and traditional Japanese painting, creating a “living art gallery” on stage — enhanced by vibrant lighting and beautiful costuming.

■ Savor the Experience – Theater + Fine Dining in One Place

The show is held at SEIKAIHA, a cultural complex that also includes the Japanese restaurant Ao no Ya. During the performance period, the restaurant offers a special set menu inspired by the show, featuring fresh local ingredients from Awaji Island. Guests can enjoy both the thrill of the stage and the flavors of the region — a feast for the senses.

For more information, click here

■ Visit Awaji Island This Spring – An Escape into Beauty

“The Sound of Hometown – Neo Japonism” is more than a stage show — it’s a full-body experience of Japan’s charm, past and present. Take a springtime trip to Awaji Island and enjoy the perfect blend of sea breeze, music, dance, and cuisine.

■ Access to Naminoritei (SEIKAIHA)

Naminoritei, part of the SEIKAIHA cultural complex, is located in Nojima-Ōkawa, Awaji City, on the northwest coast of Awaji Island. Easily accessible from Kobe (Sannomiya) in about 60 minutes via express bus. Free shuttle service is available from the nearest bus stops.

Address: 70 Nojima-Ōkawa, Awaji City, Hyogo 656-1723
Bus stops: “Awaji IC” or “Nojima Ōkawa” (Free shuttle to the venue available)
By car: About 10 min from “Awaji IC” on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway
Parking: Free on-site parking at SEIKAIHA
More info: Access

■ Show Information

• Performance Dates: March 22 (Sat) – May 6 (Tue/Holiday), 2025
• Start Time: 2:00 PM (Doors open at 1:30 PM)
• Duration: Approx. 60 minutes
• Venue: SEIKAIHA – Naminoritei Theater
• Ticket Prices:
  　General Admission – ¥4,000
  　Students (Elementary to High School) – ¥2,000
• Phone Inquiries: +81-799-70-9020