Japan House will be beautifully embellished with handcrafted decorations, as well as a display of traditional Hinamatsuri dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, attendants, and musicians in the traditional court dress of the Heian era (794-1185 AD).
Two sessions will be held with the schedule as follows:
At 1:00pm and 2:30pm, there will be a presentation by the Japan House Interns on the history of Hinamatsuri, followed by a fashion show featuring a variety of beautiful kimono, yukata and accessories traditionally worn at festivals and special events in Japan.
Immediately following, there will be 4 hands-on crafting stations that children are encouraged to explore for the remainder of the time:
- Wagashi-making (Japanese sweet)with Professor Emeritus and author of "The Art of Wagashi" Kimiko Gunji
- Origami (paper folding)
- Hinamatsuri hanging paper mobile crafting
- Ikebana (flower arranging) led by the Illinois Prairie Chapter of the Ikenobo Ikebana Society of America.
Crafts are suitable for children ages 4-13 years old.
Cost is $10 per child, reservations required. Space is limited to 30 children per session. Parents or guardians are encouraged to come and watch.
We have a no shoe policy inside Japan House. Everyone will be removing their shoes. Please wear socks.
For more information, call Japan House at 217-244-9934 or email us at japanhouse@illinois.edu
Japan House, a learning facility centered on the art of Chado, the Way of Tea, is a non-profit organization located on the University of Illinois campus, and offers a multitude of educational opportunities for students and the local community.
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
