Curtin Malaysia brings Japanese folk dance to life in cross-cultural workshop

Miri, Sarawak – 20 August 2025 – The Harry Parkins Lecture Theatre at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) was transformed into a lively cultural stage recently as students and staff immersed themselves in the rhythms of Japan’s folk dance traditions.

The Japanese Folk Dance Workshop, held on 8 August as part of Summer Camp 2025, drew a crowd of curious onlookers as guest trainer Yuriko Yamamoto, dressed in a striking red happi coat, led participants through a dynamic two-hour session of traditional and modern Japanese dance.

Organised in collaboration with Alpha Skills Academy and Curtin Malaysia, the workshop was one of several cultural highlights of the camp, which also featured drama, journalism, and creative storytelling activities.

Yamamoto’s participation was made possible through the Japan Foundation’s Nihongo Partners Programme, under which she has been assisting with Japanese language instruction at Kolej Tun Datu Tuanku Haji Bujang since March.

Participants began with Radio Taisō Dai-ichi, Japan’s long-standing morning calisthenics routine broadcast nationwide since the 1920s, before moving on to two of Japan’s most recognisable folk dances.

The first, Soran Bushi, originates from Hokkaido fishermen’s chants and has become a festival favourite across Japan. Through Yamamoto’s vivid demonstrations – net-pulling, fish-catching, and boat-rowing – the group quickly overcame initial shyness, their synchronised movements echoing with the spirited shouts of “Dokkoisho! Dokkoisho! Soran! Ha!”

This was followed by Tanko Bushi, a coal-mining dance performed during Japan’s Bon Festival, where participants learned six iconic moves symbolising miners’ work and celebrations. The session ended on a high note with an encore performance of the pop anthem “Dancing Hero”, reimagined as a Bon Festival dance.

“I am thrilled to share Japanese dance traditions with Curtin Malaysia’s community,” said Yamamoto. “Their energy and enthusiasm were astonishing for first-timers. Their powerful shouts and smiling faces during the final poses left me truly inspired.”

Dr. Yukie Hori, Lecturer in Media and Communication at Curtin Malaysia, who invited Yamamoto to the workshop, said the event was a unique opportunity for students and staff to connect with Japanese culture firsthand.

Beyond the lively choreography, the workshop highlighted Curtin Malaysia’s role as a hub for cultural exchange and global engagement, strengthening people-to-people ties between Malaysia and Japan through creative, educational experiences.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Yuriko Yamamoto and Dr. Yukie Hori (front row, 6th and 5th from left) with participants striking the Soran Bushi final pose.

Yamamoto demonstrating Soran Bushi movements.

Participants enthusiastically repeating the dance steps.

Media lecturers Dr. Yukie Hori (third from left) and Peter Jamba (left) with students and Yamamoto.