How Awaji's Puppet Troupe Is Modernizing Its Repertory

To draw inbound tourists to Awaji Ningyo Joruri, a performing art and nationally designated Important Cultural Property, the Awaji Puppet Theater in Minamiawaji (Hyogo Prefecture) recently produced a new work. Titled Kuni-umi, the play is inspired by the Kojiki, Japan's oldest chronicle, compiled in 712, which blends creation myths with early court history.

It was an ambitious departure. For the first time, the troupe introduced CG backdrops, leaning heavily on digital tools. The theater also launched a special tour plan that paired the performance with hands-on experiences.

Awaji Ningyo Joruri traces its roots to puppet plays introduced to Awaji Island in the late Muromachi period (1336-1573), later evolving into a distinct traditional art form. The Awaji Puppet Theater is the island's only active troupe today, staging productions at its dedicated venue in Minamiawaji and developing new works alongside the classics.

*A scene from Kuni-umi, with the Japanese archipelago appearing in the background via CG, at Awaji Ningyoza in Minamiawaji.*

A Myth Recast for Overseas Audiences

The project took shape after the Japan Tourism Agency selected the troupe for a program promoting premium inbound tours as part of regional revitalization. Kuni-umi was its first production created specifically for overseas visitors.

The story draws on Japan's creation myth, in which the deities Izanagi and Izanami forge the Japanese islands. It also nods to the troupe's signature crowd-pleaser, Ebisu-mai. A light comic dance piece, Ebisu-mai centers on Ebisu, a god of good fortune for merchants and fishermen. Kuni-umi weaves the deity into its narrative.

CG Backdrops and Premium Tour Packages

Alongside shamisen accompaniment and a tayu narrator's chanting, the production used digital tools, CG, sound design, and lighting to sharpen the puppets' movements onstage. For the first time, it will also include English subtitles.

An Awaji Puppet Theater representative said the troupe wants the work to help both overseas visitors and locals "rediscover" the appeal of Awaji Island.

Uzunokuni Minamiawaji, the company that operates the troupe's theater in Minamiawaji City and manages its programs, sold the packages. It set three plans built around the performance. Each package added options such as a backstage tour, hands-on sessions with shamisen players, tayu narrators and puppet handlers, and a meet-and-greet with performers.

*A scene from Kuni-umi, with English subtitles displayed in the foreground, at Awaji Ningyoza in Minamiawaji.*

Although Kuni-umi has finished its run, a rotating lineup of plays is scheduled through February and March, with foreign-language audio guides available for performances. For dates and details, visit the theater's website.