Dwango launches a new project, “meme nippon project,” for traditional performing arts and the latest technology. The first event, “Chapter 1: Yakushi-ji Temple’s Illuminated Night – Inori – ~An Evening of Kabuki, Lanterns, and Resonance~,” will be held on July 16th and 17th, 2022, at Yakushi-ji Temple, the head temple of the Hossō school of Buddhism in Nara Prefecture.

The “meme nippon project” was launched with the aspiration to express and convey the cultural DNA and aesthetic sensibilities that breathe within Japanese culture, making them visible. In doing so, we hope to evoke a sense of Japanese spirit, such as “peace” and “tranquility,” and pass on the cultural genes that are woven through generations. This project is particularly relevant in our uncertain times.

The first chapter of the project unfolds at Yakushi-ji Temple, a site where prayers have been offered without interruption for approximately 1,300 years. Bringing together leading Japanese performers, artists, and creators, with “Made in Japan” as a central theme, the event will present collaborative creations utilizing digital technology. Through Buddhist chants, projection mapping, sound art, and kabuki dance, the project aims to express “peace” and “tranquility” from Japan, interwoven with the spirit of harmony. Junji Tanigawa of JTQ serves as Artistic Director, and Daisuke Yokosawa of Dwango as General Producer.

The program consists of “Collaborative Resonance Performance” (Main Hall), “Resonant Space” (Dining Hall), “Lanterns of Prayer,” and a special viewing of Yakushi-ji Temple.

In the Main Hall, Shido Nakamura will star in a new kabuki dance performance, with choreography and direction by Kanjuro Fujima, and visual direction by WOW. The program begins with Buddhist chants by Yakushi-ji monks, followed by projection mapping illuminating the hall, and a special performance of the new kabuki dance, “Ruri-ko.”

In the Dining Hall, a new installation by See by Your Ears, led by sound artist evala, will be presented. Participants will be enveloped in three-dimensional sound, creating a fantastical space where Buddhist paintings and light subtly emerge.

The “Lanterns of Prayer” event will illuminate the night sky of Yakushi-ji with the light of wishes, featuring cup lanterns inscribed with messages of “peace” and “tranquility” from participants, alongside the temple's own lanterns. The special viewing of Yakushi-ji Temple will offer a rare opportunity to see murals normally not on display, including the “Amida Triad Paradise” (painted by Toshio Tabuchi) and the “Great Tang Western Regions Murals” (painted by Ikuo Hirayama).

Tickets for this event will be sold as rewards for crowdfunding contributions. The application period is until 11:59 PM on Monday, July 4th, 2022.