Awaji Ningyo Joruri (designated by the national government as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property), is said to have originated from the “Ebisu Mai” associated with the myth of the birth of the nation. This traditional art form is representative of Awaji Island and is performed by gidayu (chanter), futozao shamisen (thick-neck shamisen), and three puppeteers. During the golden era of ningyo joruri in the mid-Edo period (1603-1867), there were more than 40 puppet theater troupes sharing its appeal throughout the country. The Awaji Puppet Theater has inherited the tools of one of these puppet theaters, the Yoshida Fujiro-za, and continues to perform with them.
The company received the 19th Suntory Prize for Regional Culture.