{"id":808,"date":"2026-07-01T14:50:58","date_gmt":"2026-07-01T05:50:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/?p=808"},"modified":"2026-07-03T14:38:54","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T05:38:54","slug":"when-hosts-dance-looking-back-on-the-fan-club-launch-performance-of-koshoku-ichidai-otoko-the-life-of-an-amorous-man","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/when-hosts-dance-looking-back-on-the-fan-club-launch-performance-of-koshoku-ichidai-otoko-the-life-of-an-amorous-man\/","title":{"rendered":"When Hosts Dance: Looking Back on the Fan Club Launch Performance of Koshoku Ichidai Otoko: The Life of an Amorous Man"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>May 27, 2026 | Tokyu Kabukicho Tower<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781665924-gSsoXAFNWv0IUHkfcmQuVMDO-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"The Fan Club Launch Performance of Koshoku Ichidai Otoko: The Life of an Amorous Man\" class=\"wp-image-821\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781665924-gSsoXAFNWv0IUHkfcmQuVMDO-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781665924-gSsoXAFNWv0IUHkfcmQuVMDO-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781665924-gSsoXAFNWv0IUHkfcmQuVMDO-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781665924-gSsoXAFNWv0IUHkfcmQuVMDO.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<ul><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-a-noh-spirit-meets-the-neon-lights-of-kabukicho-9\">A Noh Spirit Meets the Neon Lights of Kabukicho<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-opening-the-curtain-like-hosts-17\">Opening the Curtain Like Hosts<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-the-stories-begin-26\">The Stories Begin<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-dance-that-stops-people-in-their-tracks-37\">Dance That Stops People in Their Tracks<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-first-steps-on-stage-55\">First Steps on Stage<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-every-journey-begins-with-59\">Every Journey Begins with<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-takasago-60\">Takasago<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-dancing-together-66\">Dancing Together<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-the-dance-that-marks-a-lifetime-72\">The Dance That Marks a Lifetime<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-more-than-technique-83\">More Than Technique<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-why-should-hosts-dance-93\">\u201cWhy Should Hosts Dance?\u201d<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-looking-ahead-107\">Looking Ahead<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-continue-the-journey-113\">Continue the Journey<\/a><\/li><li><a class=\"aioseo-toc-item\" href=\"#aioseo-meet-the-members-in-kabukicho-116\">Meet the Members in Kabukicho<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\u201cEveryone looks like they\u2019re truly enjoying themselves.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Watching the stage with a gentle smile, <strong>Yamamura Wakashizuki<\/strong>, master of the Yamamura School of Kamigata-mai, quietly shared this observation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was a simple remark, yet it perfectly captured the atmosphere of the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since June 2024, the hosts of Smappa!Group have been studying <strong>Nihon Buyo (Japanese classical dance)<\/strong> under Yamamura Wakashizuki, forming the dance group <em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko: The Life of an Amorous Man<\/em>. On May 27, 2026, the group stepped beyond its home stage at the Shinjuku Kabukicho Noh Theater to give its very first performance at an outside venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The occasion marked another milestone for the group: the celebration of its newly launched official fan club.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More than simply commemorating a new chapter, the performance was also a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who has supported this unusual cultural project from the very beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-a-noh-spirit-meets-the-neon-lights-of-kabukicho-9\"><strong>A Noh Spirit Meets the Neon Lights of Kabukicho<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666383-DVYSZpuJHnX1rWQe038AxKm2-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"Tokyu Kabukicho Tower\n\" class=\"wp-image-809\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666383-DVYSZpuJHnX1rWQe038AxKm2-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666383-DVYSZpuJHnX1rWQe038AxKm2-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666383-DVYSZpuJHnX1rWQe038AxKm2-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666383-DVYSZpuJHnX1rWQe038AxKm2.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The venue was <strong>FIRST STAGE<\/strong>, located inside Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, rising like a spring from the very center of Kabukicho.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike the quiet dignity of the Shinjuku Kabukicho Noh Theater, FIRST STAGE offered an entirely different atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>LED screens wrapped around the venue. Rainbow-colored lights illuminated the performers. Beyond the stage, neon signs stretched through the lively restaurant arcade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was dazzling, energetic, unmistakably urban.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet somehow, beneath the bright lights, there remained an unmistakably Asian atmosphere. Watching the performance, one couldn\u2019t help but think of the cinematic cityscapes of <em>Blade Runner<\/em>\u2014where tradition and futurism coexist in unexpected harmony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the performers, it was an unforgettable opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-opening-the-curtain-like-hosts-17\"><strong>Opening the Curtain Like Hosts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666437-rulZSqmeOtJ4d6w5i2AR7zLD-1-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"This evening\u2019s masters of ceremony were Aki and Teru. (Japanese Dance)\" class=\"wp-image-812\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666437-rulZSqmeOtJ4d6w5i2AR7zLD-1-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666437-rulZSqmeOtJ4d6w5i2AR7zLD-1-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666437-rulZSqmeOtJ4d6w5i2AR7zLD-1-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666437-rulZSqmeOtJ4d6w5i2AR7zLD-1.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This evening\u2019s masters of ceremony were <strong>Aki<\/strong> and <strong>Teru<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than beginning with a conventional introduction, they opened the show with something unmistakably Kabukicho\u2014a lively microphone performance inspired by the <strong>champagne calls<\/strong> familiar to Japanese host clubs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cEi-yoisho! Ei-yoisho!\u201d they chanted\u2014a spirited rhythmic call similar to a collective <strong>&#8220;Heave-ho!&#8221;<\/strong>\u2014with the audience echoing each phrase in response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hosts, opening a performance of traditional Japanese dance in the way only hosts could.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Known among the members for his energetic champagne calls, Aki led the performance with confidence while Teru\u2019s spirited responses accelerated the tempo, instantly filling the venue with excitement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the very first moments, the audience understood that this would not be a conventional recital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was a meeting point between two worlds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-the-stories-begin-26\"><strong>The Stories Begin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666878-b1yQJwjI8vUgkFL7xtT09ZAm-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Narumi Osaki performing Japanese Dance, Nami no Ue (\u201cUpon the Waves\u201d).\" class=\"wp-image-813\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666878-b1yQJwjI8vUgkFL7xtT09ZAm-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666878-b1yQJwjI8vUgkFL7xtT09ZAm-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666878-b1yQJwjI8vUgkFL7xtT09ZAm-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781666878-b1yQJwjI8vUgkFL7xtT09ZAm.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The evening opened with <strong>Narumi Osaki<\/strong> performing <strong>Nami no Ue (\u201cUpon the Waves\u201d)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The dance draws inspiration from the tragic warrior <strong>Taira no Tomomori<\/strong>, whose spirit continues to seek vengeance even after death. Wielding a <em>naginata<\/em> (traditional pole weapon), Narumi delivered a powerful performance filled with dramatic intensity that immediately captivated the audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next came <strong>Uta<\/strong> with <strong>Ichinotani<\/strong>, based on the story of <strong>Taira no Atsumori<\/strong>, the young samurai remembered for his extraordinary love of the flute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even on the battlefield, Atsumori could not abandon music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout the dance, Uta transformed a folding fan into a flute, then moments later suggested riding horseback, shifting gracefully between scenes as the story unfolded. The changing rhythm of the choreography reflected both the elegance and tragedy of its protagonist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781667970-ZGBvMlknO10sF4jDLNr2fSPK-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Uta with Ichinotani, based on the story of Taira no Atsumori (Japanese Dance)\" class=\"wp-image-814\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781667970-ZGBvMlknO10sF4jDLNr2fSPK-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781667970-ZGBvMlknO10sF4jDLNr2fSPK-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781667970-ZGBvMlknO10sF4jDLNr2fSPK-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781667970-ZGBvMlknO10sF4jDLNr2fSPK.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The mood then softened with <strong>Mitsuki<\/strong>, performing <strong>Kusa no Ha (\u201cLeaves of Grass\u201d)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A gentle <em>onna-mai<\/em> (female-style dance), the piece likens the bond between lovers to the autumn moon. Mitsuki\u2019s quiet, graceful movements filled the stage with melancholy and delicate emotion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668040-y4ZA7oGhEVv3cNX2TF1wbazt-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Mitsuki, performing Japanese Dance,   Kusa no Ha (\u201cLeaves of Grass\u201d).\" class=\"wp-image-815\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668040-y4ZA7oGhEVv3cNX2TF1wbazt-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668040-y4ZA7oGhEVv3cNX2TF1wbazt-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668040-y4ZA7oGhEVv3cNX2TF1wbazt-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668040-y4ZA7oGhEVv3cNX2TF1wbazt.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-dance-that-stops-people-in-their-tracks-37\"><strong>Dance That Stops People in Their Tracks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One unexpected joy of performing outside the Noh Theater was the audience itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visitors from overseas, people exploring Kabukicho, and passersby who knew nothing about the event gradually gathered around the stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Something was happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Curious faces stopped, watched, smiled, and stayed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike performances inside the Noh Theater, this audience had not necessarily come looking for Japanese dance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, Japanese dance found them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In many ways, this felt perfectly aligned with the group\u2019s mission\u2014to allow people to encounter traditional culture naturally, in the everyday life of Kabukicho, without barriers or formality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the evening\u2019s highlights came when <strong>Jotaro Kujo<\/strong> took the stage with <strong>Matsuzukushi (\u201cA Collection of Pine Trees\u201d)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668137-OeJE5kwXY42lBRa0F7UfVuvL-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Jotaro Kujo took the stage with Matsuzukushi (\u201cA Collection of Pine Trees\u201d).\" class=\"wp-image-816\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668137-OeJE5kwXY42lBRa0F7UfVuvL-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668137-OeJE5kwXY42lBRa0F7UfVuvL-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668137-OeJE5kwXY42lBRa0F7UfVuvL-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668137-OeJE5kwXY42lBRa0F7UfVuvL.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The piece celebrates famous pine trees from across Japan in the style of a counting song. Using <strong>two folding fans<\/strong> throughout the performance\u2014a considerable technical challenge\u2014Jotaro demonstrated a series of elegant fan techniques that drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The evening was also filled with personal milestones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For <strong>Tiawan<\/strong>, it was both his stage debut and his very first solo performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668276-2P5IQTcyZ6OlDCjHExKhNJw7-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Tiawan, first solo performance. (Japanese Dance)\" class=\"wp-image-817\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668276-2P5IQTcyZ6OlDCjHExKhNJw7-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668276-2P5IQTcyZ6OlDCjHExKhNJw7-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668276-2P5IQTcyZ6OlDCjHExKhNJw7-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668276-2P5IQTcyZ6OlDCjHExKhNJw7.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For <strong>Hiito<\/strong>, it was his first solo appearance as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668203-ntWuEaCB01SM9sFYRlq4xmvd-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Hiito, it was his first solo appearance (Japanese Dance)\" class=\"wp-image-818\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668203-ntWuEaCB01SM9sFYRlq4xmvd-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668203-ntWuEaCB01SM9sFYRlq4xmvd-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668203-ntWuEaCB01SM9sFYRlq4xmvd-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668203-ntWuEaCB01SM9sFYRlq4xmvd.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Even Jotaro\u2019s two-fan choreography marked a new challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Each recital becomes an opportunity for every member to take one more step forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-first-steps-on-stage-55\"><strong>First Steps on Stage<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiito performed <strong>Itako Dejima<\/strong>, a dance whose melody may sound familiar to some audiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Part of the music appears in <strong>Fujimusume (The Wisteria Maiden)<\/strong>, recently featured in the acclaimed film <em>Kokuh\u014d (National Treasure)<\/em>. The melody itself is believed to originate from boatmen\u2019s songs on the Tone River and is considered one of the roots of the popular <em>dodoitsu<\/em> song tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hiito\u2019s warm personality naturally emerged through the performance, expressing both tenderness and quiet longing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-every-journey-begins-with-59\"><strong>Every Journey Begins with<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-takasago-60\"><strong>Takasago<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For his first appearance on stage, Tiawan performed <strong>Takasago<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within the Yamamura School, <em>Takasago<\/em> is often the very first dance students learn. It introduces the essential vocabulary of Nihon Buyo\u2014from posture and sliding footwork to the handling of the folding fan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Though visibly nervous before the performance, Tiawan later shared that he had enjoyed every moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Afterward, audience members even offered him <em>ohineri<\/em>\u2014traditional tips wrapped in paper\u2014a joyful reminder that old customs still have a place in contemporary performances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was a fitting beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-dancing-together-66\"><strong>Dancing Together<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668408-bXyASrzUxWeYmoGQvi6nd75N-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Matsu Chiku Bai (Pine, Bamboo and Plum), performed Japanesze Dance by Jotaro, Hiito, and Uta. \" class=\"wp-image-819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668408-bXyASrzUxWeYmoGQvi6nd75N-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668408-bXyASrzUxWeYmoGQvi6nd75N-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668408-bXyASrzUxWeYmoGQvi6nd75N-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668408-bXyASrzUxWeYmoGQvi6nd75N.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The program continued with <strong>Matsu Chiku Bai (Pine, Bamboo and Plum)<\/strong>, performed by Jotaro, Hiito, and Uta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Representing three plants that remain resilient through winter, the dance symbolizes perseverance, prosperity, and celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was a perfect choice for commemorating the launch of the fan club.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although the trio admitted they still had much to learn, their shared performance reflected exactly what the group has become over the past two years\u2014not perfect, but constantly growing together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-the-dance-that-marks-a-lifetime-72\"><strong>The Dance That Marks a Lifetime<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668422-sJKpucPQHY34gnf8DF5CNWoB-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Maki Tezuka, founder of Koshoku Ichidai Otoko, who presented Yamamura Mai. (Japanese Dance)\" class=\"wp-image-820\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668422-sJKpucPQHY34gnf8DF5CNWoB-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668422-sJKpucPQHY34gnf8DF5CNWoB-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668422-sJKpucPQHY34gnf8DF5CNWoB-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668422-sJKpucPQHY34gnf8DF5CNWoB.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The final performance belonged to <strong>Maki Tezuka<\/strong>, founder of <em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko<\/em>, who presented <strong>Yamamura Mai<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Within the Yamamura School, this dance carries special significance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is the piece students perform when seeking professional recognition. Successfully completing it leads to receiving a stage name beginning with \u201cYamamura\u201d\u2014a symbolic acknowledgment of mastery within the school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During the group\u2019s previous recital, Tezuka had performed only the first half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This evening, he completed the entire work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wakashizuki later pointed out one detail that audiences might easily overlook.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhen the lyrics speak of flowers,\u201d she explained, \u201che is actually looking toward the flowers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tiny gestures like these embody the subtle storytelling that defines Nihon Buyo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As founder of the project, Tezuka led not only with words but with his own performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-more-than-technique-83\"><strong>More Than Technique<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Watching everyone perform that evening, Wakashizuki\u2019s first comment continued to resonate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\u201cEveryone looks like they\u2019re truly enjoying themselves.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The performers seemed liberated by the unfamiliar venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather than being overwhelmed by the brilliant lights of Kabukicho Tower, they seemed to bloom beneath them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For many audience members, this was their first encounter with Japanese classical dance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Others had simply wandered in while exploring Kabukicho.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet for seventy-five minutes, traditional performing arts became something immediate, approachable, and alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps that is precisely what <em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko<\/em> hopes to achieve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not to preserve tradition behind glass, but to allow people to encounter it naturally, in the middle of everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-why-should-hosts-dance-93\"><strong>\u201cWhy Should Hosts Dance?\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668475-ruWhGAJ1VskUOPfaCKNgSFpQ-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"MC Maki Tezuka presenting how Japanese Dance performed by hosts in Kabukicho is important.\" class=\"wp-image-825\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668475-ruWhGAJ1VskUOPfaCKNgSFpQ-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668475-ruWhGAJ1VskUOPfaCKNgSFpQ-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668475-ruWhGAJ1VskUOPfaCKNgSFpQ-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1781668475-ruWhGAJ1VskUOPfaCKNgSFpQ.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the evening, MC Aki turned to Maki Tezuka with a simple question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cWhy should hosts perform Nihon Buyo?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tezuka paused before answering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt isn\u2019t about needing a reason. Some of the most meaningful things in life exist beyond purpose. There\u2019s a richness in doing something simply because it enriches us.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>His words were not a rejection of meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rather, they were a reminder that not everything valuable needs to justify itself through productivity or utility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the audience was rakugo performer <strong>Shofukutei Uk\u014d<\/strong>, who later reflected:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIn an age where everything is expected to have a purpose, I found that to be an incredibly important perspective.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The thought echoed something Tezuka had once said on the <em>Shinjuku Kabukicho Shunga Exhibition WA Radio<\/em>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBeing cultured isn\u2019t about how much you know. It\u2019s about leaving room for imagination.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps dance belongs to that same kind of space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1780468411-4af8Z1sh3JIxwBPzEt2pcSTA-2-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Japanese Dance performance in Noh Stage.\" class=\"wp-image-826\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1780468411-4af8Z1sh3JIxwBPzEt2pcSTA-2-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1780468411-4af8Z1sh3JIxwBPzEt2pcSTA-2-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1780468411-4af8Z1sh3JIxwBPzEt2pcSTA-2-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1780468411-4af8Z1sh3JIxwBPzEt2pcSTA-2.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-looking-ahead-107\"><strong>Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The official fan club had just welcomed its first seven members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A modest beginning\u2014but every journey starts somewhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Watching the members take their bows that evening, it became clear that <em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko<\/em> is about more than hosts learning Japanese dance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is an experiment in bringing tradition into unexpected places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A reminder that culture continues to grow when people are willing to practice, to fail, to laugh, and to keep dancing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-continue-the-journey-113\"><strong>Continue the Journey<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko<\/em> continues to perform while deepening its study of Nihon Buyo, bringing traditional Japanese dance into the heart of Kabukicho.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Official Fan Club<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/koushokuichidaiotoko.com\/\"> https:\/\/koushokuichidaiotoko.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"aioseo-meet-the-members-in-kabukicho-116\"><strong>Meet the Members in Kabukicho<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The members of <em>Koshoku Ichidai Otoko<\/em> are active hosts at Smappa!Group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like to meet them in Kabukicho\u2014or explore the neighborhood with an English- or Chinese-speaking guide\u2014visit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Kabukicho Concierge<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/\"> https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>May 27, 2026 | Tokyu Kabukicho Tower \u201cEveryone looks like they\u2019re truly enjoying themselves.\u201d Watching the sta [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":821,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[17,25],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-808","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-host-club","category-25"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/808","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=808"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/808\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":831,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/808\/revisions\/831"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/821"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=808"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=808"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smappa.net\/global\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=808"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}