The 2023 OTOBUTAI concert at Toji Temple symbolizes the intersection of sacred space and artistic diplomacy. Set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage site, the concert fused traditional and contemporary expressions through dance and music, creating a symbolic dialogue between East and West.

This presentation analyzes the choreographic structure by Yuka Oishi and the musical contributions of MIYAVI, Natasha Gudzii, and others in detail. It focuses on how bodily movement and sonic textures conveyed themes of peace and spiritual reflection in a place of prayer. For example, MIYAVI's guitar performance, with its combination of power and delicacy, deeply moved the audience. Additionally, Natasha Gudzii's bandura performance, incorporating Ukrainian traditional music, served as a bridge between cultures.

The final ensemble performance, integrating diverse genres and cultural backgrounds, functioned as a performative act of cultural diplomacy. This study also examines how the concert transformed a religious site into an international stage for soft power projection from the perspective of arts policy. For instance, the stage setup at Toji Temple combined traditional architectural beauty with modern lighting technology, offering the audience a new visual experience.

The event’s recognition at the US International Awards further underscores its diplomatic significance. By examining the interplay of ritual, performance, and international collaboration, this paper argues that OTOBUTAI serves not only as a cultural showcase but also as a strategic tool for Japan’s global cultural engagement.