Japan: A View from the Performing Arts

January 2-21, 2008

HONR 379J / JAPN 499J / THET 499J

Enrich and broaden your understanding of the Japanese and their culture by walking and living through the sites that inspired the performing arts such as noh, bunraku, kabuki, classical dance, Takarazuka and their related music. Reveal how Japan's modern society is solidly based on values preserved in its classical performing arts and institutions as we visit historical places, meet performers and observe people at work and play.

During the first week on the University of Maryland campus, we will examine the specific performing arts, sites and related topics in preparation for the study abroad experience. Weeks two and three take place in Japan, specifically in Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. Our visits in Japan will coincide with Shinto rites and Buddhist services celebrating the New Years, and with Seijin no Hi, the rite of passage day for twenty year olds into adulthood.

While in Japan, students will stay in twin accommodations in hotels and use convenient local public transportation. Group visits and activities may include:

• Nara: Todaiji, Kasuga Shrine, Noh Theater
• Kyoto: Tenmangu shrine, Kiyomizu area, Higashi Hongwanji temple for special service and lunch, and Daikakuku ji for tea ceremony, calligraphy, and flower arranging
• Osaka: Bunraku Theater, classical dance, and Takarazuka City
• Tokyo: Kabuki performance, Waseda University's Tsubouchi Shoyo's Memorial Theater Museum.

The last day to apply for this program is October 2, 2007.