On a previous visit to see the plum blossoms at Yushima Tenmangu Shrine in Tokyo, I unexpectedly came across a traveling performance by the Taro Jiro Ichimon troupe, part of Nikko Saru Gundan. It was a delightful surprise during the trip! Known for the traditional Japanese art of sarumawashi (monkey performances), the troupe turns this traditional craft into a fun-filled show through the well-coordinated interactions between highly trained monkeys and their handlers. The little monkeys not only follow instructions but also work with the performers in a variety of amusing skits. Their humanlike gestures make it hard to look away.
From walking on stilts and jumping over fences to increasingly difficult challenges, each act made the atmosphere more and more exciting. The audience laughed out loud while cheering the little monkeys on, and when they successfully completed a trick, loud applause immediately erupted all around. I hope I'll have more opportunities to enjoy such skillful performances at local festivals, tourist attractions, and other places in Japan in the future.
