Miyazaki, Sep 06 (News On Japan) - High school sophomore Aoi Yamashita, celebrated as the "genius hyottoko boy" for his otherworldly sharpness, dominated every category in the kids’ division of the national championships while still in elementary school. His absence this year has become both a challenge and an inspiration for the younger dancers who look up to him.
The national Hyottoko Dance Tournament was held in August in Hyuga, Miyazaki Prefecture, attracting 60,000 spectators over two days. A record 72 groups with more than 1,300 participants entered the team competition, where a Fukuoka-based troupe emerged as champions. The festival, a familiar summer tradition in Hyuga, also featured children and adults competing in individual events.
Yamashita, who claimed the top spot in the general division last year after four consecutive wins in the kids’ division, has been studying abroad in Malaysia since February. Without his presence, his juniors in the local Aiko-kai group turned to videos of his performances for guidance as they prepared for this year’s tournament.
The hyottoko dance, traditionally performed to pray for good harvests and business prosperity, has three distinct styles rooted in folklore. According to legend, a hungry man once stole food from a shrine, angering the deity who appeared as a fox. The fox then danced to charm a beautiful woman, prompting the villagers to join in, a story still reflected in the playful gestures of today’s performers.
Children as young as four and as old as sixteen from Aiko-kai, all inspired by Yamashita, devoted themselves to the art. In the days before the competition, they practiced intensely, even calling Yamashita in Malaysia by video to receive words of encouragement. "Have confidence and do your best," he told them, easing their nerves before the main event.
On the day of the tournament, contestants from across Japan, ranging in age from two to ninety-three, competed in the individual division. Some danced with medals given by friends for support, while others struggled with nerves before their turn on stage. Despite the pressure, the juniors delivered powerful performances, with one member, Keisuke Naito, securing third place in the general division. Although victory was just out of reach, he vowed to aim higher next year.
For the young dancers, Yamashita’s absence was not only a setback but also an opportunity to grow. Their dedication showed that the "genius hyottoko boy" has left more than just a reputation—he has inspired a new generation to carry forward the tradition. The smiles of both dancers and spectators testified to a summer festival where the spirit of hyottoko was passed across generations.
Source: KBC
