A Tripod Makes the Difference

On Saturday night I was all settled in for an evening in front of the television when I heard noise outside. I went out on the balcony to investigate and there were about 100 Eisa dancers parading down my street. Eisa dancers are traditional Japanese folk dancers that perform to drum and shamisen music. I ran back inside, grabbed the camera equipment, and followed them down the street.

They stopped at a small park. There seemed to be a festival happening. There were tables set up, food, drinks, paper lanterns, and the dancers were performing. I was lurking on the outskirts of the park, trying to find a good location to take some photos without disturbing the celebration, when a lady in a kimono came over and invited me to come join the party and take photos. I think the large camera bag and tripod might have given my intentions away.

Not only was I the only American at the party, I also was the only person not formally dressed. Most of the ladies were wearing kimonos. I was wearing a pajama top and jean shorts. I tried to keep to the fringes and take my photos without intruding any more than I already was. The dancing lasted for about 15 minutes. When the dancers left, I followed them to see if I could get some to pose for photos. They started eating dinner, and I didn't want to interrupt their meal, so I waited outside the park again.

Kimono Lady

Kimono Lady saw me again and literally dragged me across the park to seat me front and center at the guest of honor table. They brought me food and tea, and found someone who could speak English to translate for me. They told me the names of each type of food on my plate. They offered me lessons in how to use chopsticks.

Male Dancers

They explained that the party was a function for the employees from the hospital down the street from me. They told me the names of the dances. I asked if I could take photos of the dancers. They thought I wanted to learn to dance. They brought me out on the dance floor and gave me dance lessons. It was SO FUN!!

Female Dancers

After the dance lesson, the party broke up. I asked my translator if he could ask the dancers to pose for me, and he found someone in each costume. They introduced lots of people to me, and when they found out that I am a teacher they all wanted English lessons. They said they will drop by for tea after work, and that they are honored to have an American friend. I was honored to be allowed to join their party. It was one of the most amazing cultural experiences I have ever had.

Note: There are more pictures but Blogger is not allowing me to upload them...I'll add them later when it cooperates again.