Ouchi Kemari Experience

The Ouchi Kemari Experience transports participants back in time to explore the centuries-old Japanese sport of kemari. Hosted at the picturesque Tsukiyama Historic Park, this unique activity invites visitors to don traditional costumes and learn the graceful movements of this ancient game through an immersive 30-minute play session. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable cultural experience, the Ouchi Kemari Experience promises to captivate and enlighten. But what exactly makes this traditional pastime so special?

Key Points

• The Ouchi Kemari Experience is a 1.5-hour traditional Japanese sport activity that takes place at Tsukiyama Historic Park in Yamaguchi City, Japan.
• Participants wear Muromachi-style costumes and play the ancient ball game of kemari using handmade mari balls.
• The experience includes a video viewing about kemari and 30 minutes of active play, with no upfront payment required.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and the activity may be canceled due to rain.
• The experience is suitable for participants aged 7 and above, and proper attire is essential for an enjoyable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Ouchi Kemari Experience

The Ouchi Kemari Experience offers participants the chance to enjoy the traditional Japanese sport of kemari, a form of ball game played during the Muromachi period.

Priced at Kč 1,588 per person, the 1.5-hour activity takes place at the Tsukiyama Historic Park in Yamaguchi City.

Participants don Muromachi-style costumes and play with a handmade mari ball, under the guidance of an English-speaking tour guide.

The experience includes a video viewing about kemari and 30 minutes of active play, providing a unique cultural encounter for visitors.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To reserve the Ouchi Kemari Experience, customers don’t need to pay upfront. They can book their spot and pay later.

On top of that, the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can check availability for the starting times of 10:00, 12:00, and 14:00.

However, the activity may be canceled due to rain, with notifications sent 2 hours prior.

Itinerary and Activities

Participants begin the Ouchi Kemari Experience by meeting at the Odono Community Center in Yamaguchi City.

After a 10-minute registration and costume change, they’ll watch a 10-minute video about the traditional Japanese game of kemari.

The highlight is the 30-minute kemari play session, where participants dressed in Muromachi-style costumes will use a handmade mari ball to engage in this historic pastime.

Finally, you will change back into their regular clothes before being dismissed.

The activity is weather-dependent, and you will be notified 2 hours in advance if it’s canceled due to rain.

Participant Requirements and Recommendations

Participants must be at least 7 years old to join the Ouchi Kemari Experience. The activity isn’t suitable for younger children.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activities. It’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes before the start time to complete the registration and costume change process.

The Ouchi Kemari Experience involves wearing Muromachi-style costumes and playing the traditional kemari ball game, so appropriate attire is essential.

Following these requirements ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

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Pricing and Inclusions

The Ouchi Kemari Experience is priced at Kč 1,588 per person. This fee covers the experience plan, guide fee, and communication charges related to service provision.

However, it doesn’t include transportation, accommodation, or any special care and treatment expenses. The activity lasts 1.5 hours and takes place at the Tsukiyama Historic Park in Yamaguchi City.

Participants can book their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The experience isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, and participants should wear comfortable clothes and arrive 15 minutes early.

History and Significance of Kemari

Kemari, an ancient Japanese ball game, holds a rich and storied history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE).

Played by the imperial court, kemari involved delicately passing a ball made of deerskin and stuffed with hair between players using only their feet. The game symbolized harmony, grace, and the pursuit of perfection.

Over time, kemari fell out of practice but has since experienced a revival, with the Ouchi Kemari Experience allowing visitors to don traditional costumes and participate in this captivating cultural tradition.

Through this experience, the essence of kemari is preserved and shared with new generations.

What to Expect During the Experience

When visitors arrive at the Tsukiyama Historic Park, they’ll be met by a friendly guide who’ll lead them through the Ouchi Kemari Experience.

First, participants don traditional Muromachi-era costumes before watching a video about the history of kemari.

Then, they’ll take to the field to play the ancient ball-juggling game, using handmade mari balls. The 30-minute kemari session allows guests to enjoy this traditional Japanese pastime.

After the activity, visitors change back into their regular clothes before concluding the 1.5-hour experience.

The entire event is carefully curated to provide an authentic taste of kemari.

Getting to the Tsukiyama Historic Park

To reach the Tsukiyama Historic Park, where the Ouchi Kemari Experience takes place, visitors can take advantage of the convenient transportation options.

The park is located in Yamaguchi City, which is easily accessible by public transportation. Participants can take a train to Yamaguchi Station and then transfer to a bus that runs directly to the Odono Community Center, the meeting point for the experience.

Alternatively, visitors can drive to the park and park in the designated areas. The park is well-signposted, making it easy for participants to find the starting location for the Ouchi Kemari Experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kemari Ball to the Experience?

You can’t bring your own kemari ball to the experience. The experience provides a handmade mari ball for participants to use during the kemari play session.

Is There a Dress Code for the Activity?

Participants are required to wear Muromachi-style costumes provided as part of the experience. There’s no personal dress code, as the activity involves changing into the traditional costumes upon arrival.

Can I Take Photos During the Kemari Play Session?

Yes, participants can take photos during the kemari play session. The experience provides a live guide who can assist with capturing memorable moments of the activity.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for the Ouchi Kemari Experience. Participants can book individually, and the experience accommodates both solo travelers and small groups. The activity is designed to provide a personalized and engaging cultural experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The activity is not suitable for children under 7 years old. Participants must be 7 years of age or older to participate in the Ouchi Kemari Experience.

The Sum Up

The Ouchi Kemari Experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the centuries-old Japanese sport of kemari. Participants can don historical costumes, learn about the game, and enjoy 30 minutes of play in the picturesque Tsukiyama Historic Park. This cultural activity emphasizes harmony, grace, and appreciation for tradition, providing a memorable and enriching experience for all ages.

You can check if your dates are available here: