Tokoyama Apprentice
とこやまみならい
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
An occupation where one learns the skills of wigs and hair setting used on stages such as Kabuki under a master as an apprentice and performs support tasks.
Description
Tokoyama apprentices learn the production, management, and hairdressing of wigs used in Kabuki and traditional stages under the guidance of tokoyama (wig artisans) and perform support duties. Starting from wig washing, applying hair products, and simple setting tasks, they gradually acquire skills in dyeing, adjustment, and hair tying. Long hours of stage support and delicate handwork are required.
Future Outlook
Demand is stable due to the inheritance of traditional performing arts and increasing stage performances, but securing young talent is a challenge.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Night and Early Morning Shifts / Stage Performances / Team-based / Theater Resident
Career Path
Tokoyama Apprentice → Tokoyama (Wig Artisan) → Chief Tokoyama → Stage Art Staff → Freelance Tokoyama
Required Skills
Cleaning and Hair Washing Techniques / Hair Setting / Stage Makeup / Wig Handling
Recommended Skills
Color Theory / Communication Skills / Traditional Performing Arts Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High accuracy is required in delicate wig making and hairdressing. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | A strong desire to learn is required to acquire diverse tokoyama skills. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Almost no mathematical work is required. |
Aliases
- Tokoyama Apprentice
Related Jobs
- Apprentice Barber
- Apprentice Hairdresser
- Tokoyama