A Rare Opportunity to Explore Yarai Noh Theater: Discovering Noh Masks and Noh Costumes Up Close
Yesterday, on November 3rd, I attended the "First-Time Experience at Yarai Noh Theater Open House" in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku Ward. This rare public tour allowed us to explore Yarai Noh Theater, the only National Tangible Cultural Property Noh theater in Tokyo. There was a special exhibit of Noh masks and costumes worn by Noh actors, as well as explanations by staff, providing a wonderful opportunity to learn about Noh in a short time.
Unveiling the Secrets of Noh Masks: Discover the Ambiguous Expressions and Asymmetry that Bring Them to Life
The Noh masks themselves are especially rare to see, as there are now few artisans who craft them. In Japan, the term “Noh mask-like expression” is often used to describe a blank or emotionless face. But in reality, Noh masks are not expressionless; they reveal different emotions depending on the viewing angle. The secret lies in the mask's "ambiguous expression" and "asymmetrical design."
Noh masks are said to contain traces of various “expressions,” and the left and right sides of the mask are asymmetrical—symbolizing the concepts of "yin and yang." Additionally, the expression changes with the mask's up-and-down movements. In this tour, we captured these changes in expression through photos of the "Young Woman" and "Hannya" masks from different angles. This is the secrets of Noh masks. You can see for yourself how the expressions change, thanks to this precious opportunity at the Yarai Noh Theater open house.
Watch the Video to Uncover the Secrets of Noh Masks
The effect of changing expressions in Noh masks has even been studied in academic papers. In 2012, Nagoya University and the University of Tokyo published findings suggesting that the Noh mask acts as an "emotional chimera," where each part of the face expresses different emotions, primarily perceived based on the shape of the mouth. This discovery hints at how Noh, as a holistic art, incorporates subtle psychological elements to evoke complex emotional expressions. Such insights draw intriguing parallels between the mysterious expressions of Noh masks and those found in Western art, such as the Mona Lisa.
The Mystery of Noh Masks
We hope you have gained a deeper appreciation for the profound nature of Noh masks. We are currently organizing an exclusive private Noh theater tour at Yarai Noh Theater, where participants will even have the rare chance to touch the Noh masks discussed today.
Private Noh Theater Tour at Yarai Noh Theater
We are organizing an exclusive Noh theater tour at Yarai Noh Theater, a National Tangible Cultural Property. Here’s what the tour includes:
Yarai Noh Theater: Registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property. The current stage and building were reconstructed in 1952, making it the second oldest Noh theater in Tokyo.
Exclusive Noh Presentation: A Noh performance by a professional Noh actor, accompanied by a mini-lecture on Noh.
Backstage Tour: Includes access to backstage areas and a close-up viewing of precious Noh masks.
Noh Stage Experience: A chance to perform on the Noh stage.
This is a very rare opportunity, so if you are interested in participating, please contact us through the "Contact" section at the URL below.
Book Each Experience
How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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