Author: ANAインターコンチネンタル別府リゾート&スパ

Toyonokuni Yufuin Genryu Daiko performance

Founded in 1979, this group has created numerous performances inspired by the charm, landscapes, history, and traditions of Yufuin. Their impressive achievements include performances at the Shanghai World Expo opening, the Korea-Japan World Cup opening, the Chaumont International Garden Festival in France, the Finland International Music Festival, and concerts organized by the Nippon Foundation in Uzbekistan. They have also performed in over 60 countries and participated in various major domestic events and music festivals

“Shichitoi” Workshop
「New Year Ornament」

“Shichitoi,” a rare type of rush used for Ryukyu tatami mats and produced exclusively in Oita Prefecture that is known for its gentle color and refreshing scent. Let’s create a cute New Year’s ornament to celebrate the start of a new year.

Chika Iwakiri

After working for the Kunisaki Shichitoi Promotion Association, she became an independent Shichitoi craft artist in 2014. Using Shichitoi, she creates handcrafted items and art objects and also conducts workshops both in Japan and abroad to share the unique qualities and appeal of this traditional material with a wide audience.

Yuki Hanzawa（Japanese flute artist）

While belonging to the “Shōnai Kagura” troupe in Yufu City, he was captivated by the sound of the shinobue flute and learned to play it on his own.
After work, he often retreats to the summit of Mount Shirakan, where he immerses himself in time with his flute while feeling the changing seasons. Motivated by a desire to share the nostalgic and heart-warming sound of the shinobue with as many people as possible. His performances span a wide range of settings, including dedication performances at shrines, music events, welfare facilities, and local festivals.