Shimada
しまだ
- PlanA
- Tokushima Through Moraes' Eyes: The Proprietress's Tales of History and Awa Odori




Experience plan overview
In this plan you can learn about the history of Fuugai and Shimada from proprietress Shimada Yukari and staff, and enjoy watching and dancing the Awa Odori, one of Japan's three great bon dances, performed by geisha. First, you'll learn about the connection between Tokushima and Wenceslau de Moraes, a man who served as Portuguese Consul General in Kobe and Osaka and introduced Tokushima's culture and natural features to the world. Through this plan, you can experience the culture of Tokushima that captivated Mr. Moraes.
After the talk, you'll enjoy watching geisha perform Awa Odori up close while savoring kaiseki cuisine that makes plentiful use of local ingredients. Your heart will naturally be uplifted as you watch them dance to the accompaniment of shamisen and "zomeki" bell sounds. One can enjoy joining the circle and dance when invited by the geisha, or trying to strike the bells. Enjoy Awa Odori, which has been danced for over 400 years and has taken root as Tokushima's traditional performing art, along with geisha culture.
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68,310 yen*Ningyo joruri puppet theater is optional
Three puppeteers and explanation +126,500 yen
Narrator and shamisen +63,250 yen -
2 people or more
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From 17:00(180 mins)
Experience plan flow
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After a greeting from the proprietress, hear the story of Mr. Moraes, who has connections to Fuugai culture, and the history of Shimada, which contributed to Fuugai's development.
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Enjoy a seasonal kaiseki meal of eight dishes using carefully selected ingredients from Tokushima.*Menu items are examples only.
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Points about Plan A

Experience "zomeki" culture by watching and dancing Awa Odori, one of Japan's three great dances, performed up close by geisha and staff.
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Option for Plan A

A supplementary plan where you can watch the Awa Ningyo Joruri Promotion Association perform “Kotobuki Ninin Sanbasou” (10 minutes), a puppet theater piece featuring Mr. Moraes, and perform the basic movements of the Moraes puppet.
Highlights and Details of Each Plan
- Awa Odori by GeishaPlan A Only
- Festivals are deeply connected to Japanese daily life and express the local climate and culture. Tokushima has Awa Odori dance, a traditional performing art that is showcased worldwide. While its origins are debated, the Fuugai geisha are said to have helped establish this dance that has continued for over 400 years. Experience Awa Odori up close at Shimada, Tokushima's only establishment with live-in geisha.
- Mr. Moraes' Ningyo Joruri Puppet TheaterOption for Plan A
- Mr. Moraes, who introduced Japanese and Tokushima culture abroad, left his mark throughout Tokushima City, including his grave and former residence. Plan A offers the option to view Mr. Moraes' original joruri puppet and watch the Awa Ningyo Joruri Promotion Association perform Kotobuki Ninin Sanbasou. Witness this traditional art form's 300-year history.
- Japanese Cuisine Using Tokushima's Bounty
- Tokushima's ingredients, nurtured by the Seto Inland Sea, clear streams, and lush majestic lush landscapes, include exceptional products that fascinate chefs at traditional restaurants and eateries nationwide. Shimada luxuriously uses Tokushima's bounty, including local citrus fruits, seasonal vegetables, Tokushima's branded Awa beef, and sea bream and spiny lobster caught in the fast-flowing Naruto Strait. Skillful use of broth and traditional seasonings highlights the natural rich flavors of the ingredients.
- Price (tax incl.)
- 68,310 yen*Ningyo joruri puppet theater is optional
Three puppeteers and explanation +126,500 yen
Narrator and shamisen +63,250 yen - Minimum Number of Guests Required
- 2 people or more
- Time Required
- From 17:00(180 mins)
- Cancellation Policy
- 10 to 4 days before reservation: 20%
3 days before reservation: 30%
2 days to the day before reservation: 50%
On the day of reservation: 100% - What to Bring/Clothing
- Please do not come barefoot.
- Payment Methods
- Pay in advance via credit card
VISA, MASTER, AMEX, DC, JCB, Diners - Participation Conditions
- None
- Reservation Deadline
- 1 month in advance
*Optional Ningyo joruri puppet theater requires reservation 2 months in advance - Notes/Disclaimers
- The menu and number of dishes will change depending on the season.
- The experience may be canceled or the content may change due to unavoidable circumstances.
- If you cancel on the day without notice, you will be charged 100% of the reserved fees.
- A cancellation fee will also be charged for cancellations of reservations for large groups.
- Other things to note
- Drinks during meals paid on site.
- Please consult in advance if you would like a vegan menu.



