Izu International Shakuhachi Festival 2026

About this event

Set against the backdrop of Asahi Waterfall in Ohira, Izu City, the first international shakuhachi festival will be held in this area known as a sacred place for the shakuhachi bamboo flute. Asahi Waterfall is a scenic spot boasting a 105-meter drop and is famous as a geosite of the Izu Peninsula Geopark. This site was once home to the Fuke sect Buddhist temple "Ryugenji" and is known as the birthplace of the classical shakuhachi piece "Taki Ochi no Kyoku" (Waterfall Dropping Melody). At the opening on Sunday, October 11, three shakuhachi performers will each perform their version of "Taki Ochi no Kyoku," creating a magical atmosphere where the twilight at Asahi Waterfall blends with the resonance of the shakuhachi. An illumination of Asahi Waterfall is also scheduled after the performance. On the following day, Monday (national holiday), October 12, a mini-concert by Japanese and American shakuhachi players will be held at "Chihan-an," a historic Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property in Ohito, Izunokuni City. Performers include Zenho Shimura, Christopher Yohmei, Akihito Obama, and Reison Kuroda, with talks by the performers scheduled in addition to the music. This festival aims to reaffirm the value of Izu's nature and culture and transmit it both domestically and internationally. Aiming to become a regular fixture as a new cultural and tourism event in Izu, it offers a special experience of listening to the shakuhachi in nature.

Venue

Former Suganuma Family Residence

623-1 Yoshida, Izunokuni, Shizuoka 410-2322