Traditional and Non-traditional Storytellers in Modern Japanese Societies

Abstract

In Japan, the tradition of storytelling no longer exists in rural communities; thus, it is increasingly difficult to find traditional storytellers who have heard folktales passed down over generations. However, new storytelling is activated by both traditional and contemporary (non-traditional) storytellers who tell stories learned through reading books. In rural areas, a small number of traditional storytellers tell folktales to tourists at tourism facilities, while in urban cities, contemporary storytellers tell stories and folktales to children in libraries, schools and other community facilities. Their activities greatly contribute to the vitalization of folktales; nonetheless, there are some challenges. Both types of storytellers attempt to solve problems that they face. These attempts represent the possibilities of new storytelling in modern Japan.