Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo
Origin
The Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo was devised in the late Edo period by the first Nishikawa Koryu (Yamagishi Ryukichi), who was born in 1825 (Bunsei 8) in what is now Hannō City, Saitama Prefecture.
Technique
This art form is an adaptation of the traditional three-person puppeteering style used in Bunraku into a one-person technique. This innovation involves the puppeteer sitting on a box equipped with a "rokuro-guruma" (wheel mechanism).
- The puppeteer manipulates the puppet by gripping the "kakari" (attached to the puppet's heels) with their toes.
- The right hand controls the puppet's right hand and a ring-shaped string attached to its left hand.
- The left hand operates the puppet's left hand and head, while the fingers manipulate its eyes, mouth, and eyebrows.
Unique Features
This technique allows the puppet to place its feet directly on the stage, creating a unique sense of dynamism. Such a structure is said to be unparalleled in the world.
Recognition
In 2022 (Reiwa 4), the Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo was designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the Japanese government.
Photo
| Category | History & Culture |
|---|---|
| Area | Ongata Area |
| Facility Description |
In 2022 (Reiwa 4), it was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Kuruma Ningyo involves a puppeteer sitting on a wheeled box called a "rokuro-guruma" and operating a puppet single-handedly. It is said to be the only puppetry in the world where the puppet can perform while placing its feet directly on the stage. Currently, the Nishikawa Koryu Troupe in Shimo-Ongata Town inherits this tradition and engages in a wide range of activities, including performances in Hachioji City, across Japan, and even internationally. |
| URL | https://www.city.hachioji.tokyo.jp/kankobunka/003/003/006/kinisitei/p005234.html |
| Address | 1566 Shimo-Ongata-machi, Hachioji City, Tokyo |
| Tel | 042-652-1222 |
| Map | |
| Access | About 5 minutes from Ken-O Expressway Hachioji West IC. About 10 minutes by bus from JR/Keio Takao Station, get off at Kawaharajuku Ohashi, and walk for about 10 minutes. |