The members of the Yamagami Gakuwaikai are students from elementary school to high school who practice reciting Shigin Japanese-style poems, which pass down the traditions of the Yonezawa area, and Kenbu sword dance. Members meet once a month to listen to lectures, debate, study, and play. The Yonezawa Ittoryu sword dance has been performed as an offering for the Spring and Autumn festivals at the Uesugi Shrine since 1928 (Showa 3), and at the Matsugasaki Shrine since 1964 (Showa 39). Since 1897 (Meiji 30) Shigin poetry recitation and Kenbu sword dance have been practiced for the training of mind and body. Through the practice of Shigin, members learn about the philosophy and way of life of poets such as Oshio Heihachiro, Yoshida Shoin, Hashimoto Sanai, and Kumoi Tatsuo. Kenbu sword dance took the techniques taught in the area surrounding Yonezawa castle and added new movements, creating a new, independently developed style. Later, in 1928 (Showa 3), it was officially recognized as the Yamagami Ittoryu Kenbu sword dance at Uesugi Kenshin’s 350th anniversary festival.
(Yamagami Gakuwakai: Japanese old martial arts (style of sword and poetry dancing) Association
Yonezawa Ittoryu Kenbu: Yonezawa school of One –Sword martial arts accompanied by poetry (shigin))
| Year | 2019 |
|---|---|
| Copyright | Yamagata Pref |
| Production | Yamagata Prefecture Life-long Learning Cultural Foundation（fndn） |
| Time | 7:49 |