Flamenco — the exuberant dance form originating from Andalusia in southern Spain — has long thrived in Japan, with many of the greats traveling here to perform. There is even a popular claim that Japan has more flamenco academies than Spain.

“In this country flamenco took hold a long time ago, though it’s not only about dance and music styles,” says avant-garde flamenco dancer Israel Galvan. “Many Japanese love flamenco culture, and they try to grasp its essence in their lives. So I can say that flamenco is vibrantly alive here.”

The 47-year-old maestro from Seville, who has amassed prestigious awards and honors such as the National Dance Award for Exceptional Artistry from the U.K. and the French Order of Arts and Letters, is now in Japan to share his love of this powerful performance art.