Traditional Japanese Asanoha Pattern Decoration Traditional Japanese Shippo Pattern Decoration
Japanese Culture Background
International Performances Signature Performance

Umekawa
Ichinosuke
Classical
Japanese
Dancer

Connecting people and cultures by preserving
traditions and sharing their timeless beauty

View Performances

Introduction Video

Previous Performances

JAL Special Event

JAL In-Flight Disembarkation Video

2024 Japan Airlines All Routes Worldwide
American Tour

Japan Self-Defense Forces
70th Anniversary Reception

2024 Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles Los Angeles, USA
Traditional Performance

Nihon Buyo (Classical Japanese Dance)
– Curated Showcase

Fall 2024 National Theatre Special Appearances Throughout Japan
In Conversation with Living National Treasure Tamasaburo Bando

In Conversation with Living National Treasure
Tamasaburo Bando

Special Appearances Throughout Japan Tokyo, Japan

About Umekawa Ichinosuke

Through Japanese dance, Umekawa Ichinosuke has pioneered unprecedented paths, connecting with children, people with disabilities, and international audiences without distinction, fostering mutual understanding and respect through Japanese culture.

"Connecting people and culture, preserving and passing on the old—this is the beauty that transcends time and continues to live." These words guide his daily activities as he bridges tradition and innovation.

Portrait of Umekawa Ichinosuke

Biography

2005

Tokyo Ballet Company

Performed in numerous works including Maurice Béjart's 'Bolero' and 'Greek Dances', as well as classical pieces such as 'Swan Lake', 'Giselle', and 'Sleeping Beauty'. After completing overseas performances in 2006, his longing for his homeland Japan grew stronger, leading to his resignation from the company that same year.

2007

Three-Year Kabuki Actor Training Program at National Theatre

During training, he studied traditional Japanese arts including kabuki performance techniques, |tachimawari (stage fighting), |nagauta (long songs), |shamisen, |gidayu (narrative music), |taiko drums, |tsuzumi drums, |koto music, and tea ceremony. During his training period, he met Living National Treasure Bando Tamasaburo, who would later have a profound influence on his career.

2010

Nakamura Shido's Family

After graduating from the training program, he joined Nakamura Shido's family. Under the stage name Nakamura Shijiro, he made his debut at the old Kabukiza Theatre (before reconstruction) in the role of Shinzo in 'Sukeroku Yukari no Edo Zakura'. He performed in numerous works including 'Akoya', 'Kanadehon Chushingura', 'Shinobi Yoru Koi Zutsumi Shogun', and 'Arashi no Yoru ni'.

2016

Transition from Kabuki Actor to Classical Japanese Dancer

He transitioned from performing as a kabuki actor to establishing himself as a classical Japanese dancer. Beyond classical works, he has created numerous collaborative pieces incorporating fashion, technology, classical and folk music, local cultures and people, and picture book fusion works for children. He has also pioneered innovative performances on water stages, with fireworks, on beaches, and at shrines, temples, and art museums, establishing himself as an innovative dancer.

2022-Present(Dance) ▸
2016-2021(Dance) ▸
Kabuki Actor ▸
Tokyo Ballet ▸

Philosophy

伝

Preservation and Development of Traditional Culture

Preserving the essence of artistic traditions while introducing the beauty of Japanese dance to new generations through innovative works and collaborations.

繋

Community Engagement

Breathing new life into local history, traditional songs, haiku, and regional dances through Japanese dance. Inspiring communities with workshops for children and motivational talks about pursuing dreams.

極

International Exchange and Overseas Performances

Since 2017, expanding international reach with over 30 cultural exchanges and performances a year through invitations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and embassies worldwide.

Gallery & Highlights

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Building Cultural Bridges Through Dance

Through Japanese dance, we build bridges that span cultures, generations, and communities. Each performance connects hearts and fosters understanding between diverse groups around the world.

From children's workshops to international stages, from ancient temples to modern venues—every encounter plants seeds of cultural appreciation that take root and flourish across continents.

10+ Countries Reached SO FAR
1,000,000+ MILLIONS OF Lives Touched
Countless Connections MADE
Building Cultural Bridges through Dance

Contact Us

We are happy to hear from you. Please fill out the form below and let us know how we can help you with performances, workshops, private events, and cultural collaborations.

Email: umekawa.office@gmail.com
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Response Time: Within 2 business days

Thank you for your interest in our services. We will reply to you shortly.

Official Partner

Carrying Japan's traditional culture into the future
and sharing its beauty with the world.

Inspired by the possibilities opened by Umekawa Ichinosuke and moved to contribute to society, our partner embraces the responsibility of stewarding Japanese culture. We are honored to introduce our Official Partner.

SHIBATA INDUSTRY CO., LTD.