Traditional succession and apprenticeship systems are struggling in Japan. Japan Arts Council-trained individuals are stepping up.
One traditional genre saw 90% fewer applicants.
Japan’s classical performing arts face a critical shortage of new talent.
- Traditional apprenticeship systems in Japan’s performing arts are faltering.
- Applications for training programs in one genre dropped by 90%.
- The Japan Arts Council is increasingly important for nurturing talent.
TOKYO, September 7, 2025 – Japan’s classical performing arts scene is grappling with a severe decline in new artists. In one traditional genre, the number of applicants for training programs has plummeted by a staggering 90%. This trend highlights a growing challenge as traditional succession and apprenticeship systems struggle to attract the next generation.
The situation underscores a critical need for new talent across various art forms. The Japan Arts Council is now playing a more significant role in filling this void. Individuals trained by the council are becoming vital to the continuation of these age-old traditions.
This decline isn’t just a statistic; it’s a cultural crisis. The intricate skills and unique artistic expressions developed over centuries are at risk of fading away if a new wave of practitioners doesn’t emerge soon. The efforts of institutions like the Japan Arts Council are becoming the primary bulwark against this cultural erosion.
