In this one-day-only event, visitors were able to enjoy Noh, the characteristic traditional performing art of the Muromachi period, and classical rakugo, a typical form of popular entertainment in the Edo period. This performance leveraged the power of the temple setting, where people have gathered since ancient times, which has a profound connection with Noh, and which has given rise to numerous forms of culture. Bamboo lanterns made from bamboo cut every year from the bamboo grove in the temple grounds were lit and placed not only in the main hall where the performances took place, but throughout the entire temple building including the gardens and corridors, creating an ethereal atmosphere. For this day only, the temple was kind enough to open its reception hall, a Cultural Asset of Setagaya-ku, where guests were treated to tea and Japanese sake. Visitors truly got to experience Japanese culture to the full, indulging all five senses.

Program
Solo performance by Ichinosuke, round-table discussion, mini-lecture, Noh “Hagoromo”
Principal performers
Rakugo: Shunputei Ichinosuke
Noh: Jiichi Asami
Staff: Noriko Kawahashi, Rika Asami