In a quiet residential corner of Nagoya, a vibrant sound echoes through the streets — bells, drums, saxophones, and laughter. It’s the unmistakable presence of Bentenya, an all-female chindonya troupe led by Suzy Yokoe, a woman on a mission to revive and modernize one of Japan’s oldest street performance traditions.
Once a staple of pre-war Japanese shopping districts, chindonya troupes were hired to promote businesses through music, comedy, and flamboyant costumes. Today, they are rare — but Bentenya is keeping the art alive and thriving.
At the helm is 47-year-old Suzy Yokoe, known simply as “Suzy” in performance circles. A saxophonist with a background in jazz and pop, Suzy traded her office job for a saxophone and a dream 15 years ago. From her modest home-office — affectionately called “Suzy House” — she manages everything: bookings, rehearsals, costumes, and payroll for her seven-member team.
“I wanted to do something meaningful — something that could make people smile,” she says. “Chindonya is joy in motion.”
Each member of Bentenya is a trained musician, and together, they turn every event into a spectacle. Their performances are loud, joyful, and unmistakably full of heart — a blend of tradition and creativity. With rainbow-colored wigs, sequined kimono, and energetic rhythms, they’re a staple at festivals, parades, and even weddings across Japan.
Bentenya has been the highlight of the Hadaka Festival in Aichi Prefecture for 15 years, drawing applause as they parade with local community groups. “They changed everything,” recalls a festival organizer. “What was once quiet and reserved became a celebration.”
Yet the path hasn’t been easy. “I thought I could turn this into a business if I worked hard enough,” Suzy admits. “But it’s been a constant hustle.”
Still, she remains committed — not for fame or profit, but for the joy of the music, and the smiles on people’s faces. Her parents, once skeptical, have become her strongest supporters. “I just wanted her to have a normal life,” her mother Takako says with a laugh. “But I see now, this is her calling.”
Earlier this spring, Bentenya competed in the All-Japan Chindon Contest in Toyama City, where performers from across the country gather to showcase their flair. Once again, Suzy and her troupe stood out — not just for their talent, but for their passion.
“There’s nothing like chindonya,” Suzy says. “It’s part music, part message, all heart. And as long as people still smile when they hear our drums, we’ll keep marching on.”
