Discover the fabric of Noh theater, in costume and in spirit

Details

• Private Experience

• Location: Nakano, Tokyo

• 2 hours

• 6 people max

• Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in English
  (French/German interpretation may be available upon request)

Slip Into Character

Austere yet meditative, aesthetic and yet steeped in spirituality, Noh Theater is one of Japan's oldest performing arts. A recognized UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, Noh performances are characterized by the usage of enigmatic masks carrying a single carved expression, rhythmic chanting, slow movements, and a simple backdrop with a roof constructed over the inside stage. While masks might be the most visually representative image of this iconic dramatic practice, Noh costumes are also veritable masterpieces in their own right, constructed from dazzling silk fabric and designed with bold, vivid patterns. Beyond the sheer craftsmanship required to craft the textiles and material for the Noh kimono costumes, each outfit is also embedded with symbolic meaning indicating the character's age, gender, status, and a variety of other factors as well. Red for example, when used in female roles, can represent the woman's age, while the color and shape of a kimono color can showcase social status or inner emotions. Discover more about the expressive beauty of Noh costumes from a 4th-generation Noh performer at his private training residences, and experience wearing authentic Noh costumes used actively on stage yourself.

What you’ll do

Learn about the ancient history of Noh Theater and the costumes used in perfromances from a professional Noh performer. Experience wearing a selection of authetnic costumes on stage on the actor's private training residences.

Who can attend

Children must be 11+

Availability

Everyday

Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:30 - 15:30)
Session 3 (18:00 - 20:00)

Access

40 minutes from Tokyo station ( by train)

Cancellation Policy

Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
* A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.