Masashige was also keen on preserving folk performing arts in Kyoto that had been declining along with the progress of civilization and enlightenment and he took care of children who joined and rode the Naginata (long-handled sword) float in Gion Festival and served as chairperson of the preservation committee of Mibu Kyogen (pantomime performed in Mibu-dera Temple).
また、正重は文明開化とともに衰微する一方であった京都の民間芸能の保存にも熱心で、祇園祭の長刀鉾の稚児の世話役や壬生狂言の維持会長などを勤めた。