CHAU Maggie
Center for Japanese Language
I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the “Learn Traditional Dance and Try on Yukata!” organized by ICC on June 21st, when summer was just around the corner.
I had previously tried on a Kimono at a Japanese museum; this was my first time experiencing the gracefulness of a Yukata. The workshop offered a variety of beautiful Yukatas to choose from, along with obi belts that we could mix and match according to our preferences. Students from the Wakamono Kimono-kai assisted us in putting them on, patiently guiding us through each step. It left me feeling confident that I might even be able to do one by myself next time!
After everyone was looking beautiful, we were then introduced to Ms. Caari Koide, a professional Japanese dancer with an impressive profile and an even more captivating presence. Ms. Koide’s journey in dancing began at the tender age of two, and she achieved professional recognition by the age of 15. Under her guidance, we learned two mesmerizing and fun dances. The first one transported me to a serene summer night, akin to a scene from a classical Japanese poem, where we became the poet admiring the fully bloomed sakura trees under a moonlit sky. The second dance was a matsuri (Japanese festival) dance when the entire group danced in a circle. Although the steps seemed simple at first, attempting to dance it revealed the intricate coordination required both as an individual and within the group. Thanks to Ms. Koide’s interesting and clear instructions, we quickly found ourselves dancing to both songs with sheer delight.
Photo by ICC
Beyond these unforgettable experiences, I am grateful for the opportunity to make new friends from many various countries. It is truly amazing to find out how Waseda has attracted so much talent from all over the world and to learn about their experiences. Additionally, as a foreign student, I was excited to engage with some local students and I even set up a language exchange with one of them following the event. With the memories of donning a beautiful yukata, fondly dancing to Japanese melodies, and the warmth of newfound friendships, I eagerly anticipate my very first summer in Tokyo (maybe with a beautiful yukata)!
Photo by ICC
