Osaka: Noh experience with a successor at a Noh theater
Learn the essence of Noh from Master Motonori Umewaka, and face your inner self on the sacred Hinoki stage.
Learn Directly from a Designated Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Nohgaku,Collective,Recognition)NishinomiyaNoh Theatre: An Authentic Noh Experience
A special threehour journey to rediscover yourself, guided by Master.
■ Instructor: A Guardian of Authentic Tradition
Motonori Umewaka Kanzeryu Shite-kata (Lead Actor)
Designated Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Nohgaku, Collective Recognition)
Representative Director of Japan Traditional Arts & Cultures Foundation
Born into a prestigious lineage with a 600year history, Master is one of Japan’s preeminent Noh performers.While dedicated to preserving ancient traditions, he is also a key figure in promoting the art of Noh both domestically and internationally.
■ Why It’s Unique:
Noh is the world’s oldest performing art, having been handed down continuously for over 650 years without ever dying out.
Within its "aesthetics of subtraction"where every unnecessary element is stripped away—the Japanese spiritual view of life, death, and the universe is profoundly condensed.Against the simple backdrop of a single "Old Pine" (Oimatsu) on stage, the power of imagination creates an infinite world.Noh is the ultimate"moving meditation".It offers a profound opportunity to look within and reconnect with oneself.
■ 3 Special Features
1. Insights from a Master
This is a rare opportunity for direct guidance in an intimate, small-group setting.Unlike watching from a distance in a large theater,you will experience with all your senses the actor’s subtle presence—from the breath to the rustle of silk—and enjoy personal interaction through direct dialogue.
2. Refine Senses on Cypress Stage
Don't just watch from the audience—step onto the sacred stage made of Japanese cypress.By practicing the unique suriashi walking technique, you will experience a profound sense of unity with gravity and awaken your inner senses you are not aware of in daily life.
3. Noh Mask Mysteries
The Noh mask is a sacred creation designed to transcend the individual and house a spirit.
You will observe the"terasu/kumorasu"technique—where the mask’s expression shifts with the slightest tilt—and wear the mask yourself to experience a state of extreme focus within a restricted field of vision.
■ Program
1. Noh Theater Lecture & Vocal
Learn about the sacred architectural structure of the Noh theatre. You will practice the unique abdominal breathing used in Noh, feeling the resonance of the Japanese language vibrate throughout your body.
2. Noh Stance & Suri-ashi
Step onto the stage where actors perform. Wearing white tabi (traditional socks),you walk on the cypress wood, listening to the sound of your own footsteps echoing in the silence—a moment of profound inner dialogue.
3. Noh Masks & Costumes
Touching the essence of Noh masks and costumes as exquisite works of art,You will have the opportunity to learn about their deep spiritual significance. 4Q&A Personal time with the Master to ask questions and deepen your insights.
4. Q&A
Personal time with the Master to ask questions and deepen your insights.








