history of yamamoto noh theater

The first stage of Yamamoto Noh Theater was initially constructed by Hiroyuki Yamamoto in 1927. Sadly, it fell victim to destruction during an air raid in Osaka in 1945. However, Yamamoto endeavored to rebuild, and by 1950, the theater was reconstructed, making it one of the first Noh theaters to be restored in Japan following the war.

An article titled "Full-Scale Noh Stage to be Reconstructed in Osaka in April," published in the Asahi Shimbun newspaper on March 2, 1950, highlighted the significance of the theater's reconstruction. Most Noh theaters were lost during the war, and while the Suidobashi Hosho Noh Theater in Tokyo was set to be completed that year, the Yamamoto Noh Theater in Tokui-cho, Higashi-ku, was nearing completion even before it. The theater featured a full-fledged stage modeled after the national treasure stage in the Kurojo-in of Nishi Honganji, with the pine tree on the kagami-ita being painted by Soofu Matsuno, a renowned Noh painter.

The stage-opening performances spanned five days and showcased the talents of the 25th head of the Kanze school, along with other esteemed masters from Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. This event marked a significant milestone in the revival of Noh theater following the devastation of World War II.

 Close

facilities

Step into the serene ambiance of the Yamamoto Noh Theater, where every detail reflects the essence of Japan's rich cultural heritage. Our distinguished Noh stage, crafted from the finest Japanese cypress, stands as a testament to centuries of artistic tradition. In the back of the stage is a magnificent kagami-ita, its surface graced with a breathtaking depiction of a traditional pine tree, meticulously rendered by the renowned artist Matsuno Sōfu.

Beneath the stage, a rare and remarkable feature awaits – acoustic clay pots imbue each performance with unparalleled resonance, creating an immersive auditory experience that resonates within the soul. As you explore our facilities, you'll discover our expansive greenroom - a sanctuary for performers to prepare and reflect, with flexible partitions that adapt to the needs of the moment.

In our intimate library, shelves adorned with Noh-related literature beckon enthusiasts and scholars alike, offering a curated collection of insights into this revered art form. Amidst the hushed atmosphere, vintage vinyl records whisper tales of past performances, transporting visitors through time to an era of artistic brilliance.

At the Yamamoto Noh Theater, every space embodies a reverence for tradition and a commitment to excellence, inviting guests to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment through the timeless beauty of Noh theater.

 Close

traditional performing arts

Apart from the regular Noh performances, every month, Yamamoto Noh Theater hosts a special show titled "The Traditional Performing Arts of Osaka", which presents four traditional performing arts in a single evening. This show is particularly popular among tourists from outside Japan, since they can enjoy highlights of four performing arts in just two hours (each performance lasts about 15 minutes). Programs are selected from the repertoire of all traditional performing arts that originated in Osaka, including Noh plays, Kyogen comic plays, Bunraku puppet theater, Ozashiki-asobi (games played at Japanese-style parties), Kamigata-mai (Western Japanese traditional dance), Rakugo (comic storytelling), Kodan (storytelling) and Rokyoku (narrative ballad). In addition to regular Noh performances, the Yamamoto Noh Theater hosts a monthly special show titled "The Traditional Performing Arts of Osaka." This unique event presents four traditional performing arts in a single evening, making it a favorite among tourists from outside Japan. Each performance lasts approximately 15 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy highlights of four different art forms in just two hours.

The programs featured in "The Traditional Performing Arts of Osaka" are selected from a diverse repertoire of traditional arts originating in Osaka. These include Noh plays, Kyogen comic plays, Bunraku puppet theater, Ozashiki-asobi (games played at geisha parties), Kamigata-mai (Japanese traditional dance), Rakugo (comic storytelling), Kodan (storytelling), and Rokyoku (narrative ballad).

By offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Osaka's traditional performing arts, this special show provides an immersive experience for both local residents and visitors, fostering an appreciation for Japan's diverse cultural traditions.

NOH - Noh is a traditional form of Japanese theater characterized by its minimalist stage, elaborate costumes, and masked performers. Rooted in ancient Japanese culture, Noh combines elements of dance, music, and drama to convey profound themes and emotions. The performances often revolve around themes of spirituality, human suffering, and redemption, making Noh a deeply evocative and spiritually enriching art form.

KYŌGEN - Kyōgen is a traditional form of Japanese comic theater performed as interludes between Noh acts. Unlike Noh, Kyōgen features ordinary characters in everyday situations, often using exaggerated gestures and physical humor to entertain audiences. With its light-hearted and accessible style, Kyōgen serves as a delightful contrast to the solemnity of Noh, providing moments of levity and humor within traditional Japanese theater.

BUNRAKU - Bunraku is a traditional Japanese puppet theater dating back to the Edo period, known for its intricate puppetry, elaborate costumes, and emotional storytelling. Performances typically involve puppeteers, a chanter, and a shamisen player working in harmony to bring the puppets to life and narrate the story. Bunraku productions often explore themes of love, honor, and tragedy, captivating audiences with its compelling narratives and masterful puppetry techniques.

OZASHIKI-ASOBI - Ozashiki-asobi is a form of traditional Japanese entertainment performed at intimate gatherings or parties, known as ozashiki. It features geisha or entertainers engaging guests with various games, performances, and cultural activities. Ozashiki-asobi creates an immersive and convivial atmosphere, allowing participants to enjoy music, dance, and conversation in a relaxed and elegant setting.

KAMIGATA-MAI - Kamigata-mai is a traditional form of Japanese dance originating from the Kamigata region, which includes Osaka and Kyoto. It features graceful movements, elegant gestures, and vibrant costumes, often accompanied by traditional music and poetry. Kamigata-mai performances convey a range of emotions and stories, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the region.

KŌDAN - Kōdan is a traditional Japanese storytelling art characterized by a narrator recounting tales of history, folklore, or legend to captivated audiences. Often performed in a dramatic and engaging manner, Kōdan involves vivid storytelling techniques, including vocal modulation and expressive gestures. Through Kōdan, storytellers bring to life tales of bravery, adventure, and wisdom, preserving Japan's rich cultural heritage for generations to come.

RAKUGO - Rakugo is a traditional form of Japanese storytelling performed by a lone storyteller, or rakugoka, who sits on stage and recounts humorous tales. Using minimal props and relying solely on voice modulation and gestures, the rakugoka adopts multiple character roles within the story, captivating the audience with comedic dialogue and witty wordplay. Rakugo's rich tradition and engaging narratives make it a beloved art form in Japanese culture, offering audiences an immersive experience into the world of humor and storytelling.

RŌKYOKU - Rōkyoku is a traditional Japanese narrative ballad performed by a solo singer accompanied by a shamisen player. It often depicts stories of love, tragedy, and historical events, drawing inspiration from Japanese folklore and literature. With its emotive melodies and expressive storytelling, Rōkyoku has been cherished as a form of cultural expression, conveying the depth of human experiences and emotions throughout Japan's history.

KABUKI - Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater known for its elaborate costumes, stylized makeup, and dynamic performances. It features a diverse repertoire of historical dramas, romantic tragedies, and comedic plays, often showcasing the talents of renowned actors. With its rich cultural heritage and captivating performances, Kabuki stands as a cherished art form, ensuring the preservation of Japan's theatrical traditions for future generations and captivating audiences worldwide.

ONNA-DŌRAKU - Onna-dōraku which translates to "women's pleasure" or "women's entertainment" is a form of entertainment that involves theatrical performances, often comedic or lighthearted in nature, catering specifically to women's interests and preferences. In "onna-dōraku" shows, the performer may enact humorous skits, storytelling, or musical acts tailored to appeal mainly to female audiences.

 Close

tour of the theatre

Yamamoto Noh Theater organizes tours of the Noh stage and dressing rooms. In this tours, you will be guided through the three-story wooden Yamamoto Noh Theater, a registered national cultural asset, by a professional Noh performer.
The tour includes various talks on the history, architectural peculiarities and secrets of the Noh stage. You can also see the acoustic vases under the Noh stage.

Please note that there is a limit to the number of people who can see the backstage at one time, so if there is a large number of people, you may be asked to split into groups.

 Close

workshops

Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of Japan's revered Noh tradition with exclusive workshops and enlightening lectures offered by Yamamoto Noh Theater. Delve into the rich heritage of Noh theater through hands-on experiences that unveil the intricacies of this ancient art form.

Step into the world of Noh as you partake in our bespoke workshops and lectures, carefully curated to offer a deeper understanding of its profound significance. Discover the mystique of Noh masks and costumes as you adorn yourself in the elegant attire worn by Noh performers for centuries. Gain invaluable insights into the underlying principles of Japan's traditional aesthetics, where every gesture and expression carries deep meaning.

Under the expert guidance of professional Noh masters, embark on a transformative journey of exploration and discovery. Experience the essence of Noh-style chanting and movement, honing your skills under the tutelage of those steeped in the centuries-old traditions. Traverse the stage, wearing a beautifully crafted mask, as you embody the spirit of ancient tales and timeless narratives.

Engage your senses as you embrace the melodic strains of the musical instruments unique to Noh performances. With hands-on instruction, unlock the secrets of these instruments, understanding their pivotal role in bringing Noh dramas to life.

At Yamamoto Noh Theater, we invite you to delve beyond the surface and immerse yourself in the profound beauty of Noh theater, where tradition meets innovation, and history resonates with the present. Experience the magic of Noh firsthand, as you become part of a legacy that spans centuries.

 Close

mini performance

At the Yamamoto Noh Theater, we offer the opportunity to organize a special mini-performance event. This experience begins with an insightful lecture on Noh, followed by an actual performance of half a Noh play, typically featuring the second act and lasting approximately 20-30 minutes. We provide various plans tailored to accommodate different group sizes and budgets.

Additionally, we offer the option to combine this tour with other traditional performing arts such as Kyogen, Rakugo, and Kodan (storytelling) from the Kamigata region, enriching your cultural experience and providing a comprehensive exploration of Japan's diverse artistic heritage.

 Close

private parties

At Yamamoto Noh Theater, we extend the unique privilege of enjoying refreshments during our performances, creating a comfortable and immersive environment for our audience members. Upon request and in alignment with their preferences and budget, patrons can indulge in a selection of food items, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages while experiencing the mesmerizing Noh performances.

We understand that enhancing the cultural experience often involves engaging multiple senses, and our offerings are curated to complement the rich tapestry of Noh theater. Whether it's savoring traditional Japanese delicacies, quenching thirst with refreshing beverages, or indulging in fine spirits, we aim to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of our guests.

At Yamamoto Noh Theater, we invite you to savor not only the captivating performances on stage but also the delightful culinary offerings that enhance the overall experience, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

 Close

performances abroad

A core mission of the Yamamoto Noh Theater is to showcase Japanese classical Noh drama as a vibrant and enduring form of ancient performing art, continuously relevant in today's cultural landscape. Since 2010, our theater has embarked on an annual endeavor to bring the essence of Noh beyond the borders of Japan, fostering a global appreciation for this cherished tradition.

With over 40 performances and 50 workshops conducted in various countries including Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, France, Finland, North Macedonia, Albania, and beyond, we have embraced the opportunity to share the profound beauty and timeless narratives of Noh with audiences worldwide. Through these endeavors, we strive to illuminate the universal themes and emotive resonance embedded within Noh theater, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers to connect with diverse audiences.

Central to our efforts is the collaboration with local cultural and diplomatic institutions, fostering mutual understanding and cultural exchange between Japan and the host countries. By forging meaningful partnerships, we cultivate a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of both nations, enriching the global tapestry of artistic expression and dialogue.

At the Yamamoto Noh Theater, we remain steadfast in our commitment to preserving and promoting the legacy of Noh theater on the international stage, inspiring audiences around the world with its enduring beauty and profound significance.

 Close

history of noh

During the 8th century, Japan welcomed sangaku, a form of popular entertainment originating from China, which encompassed pantomime, acrobatics, magic tricks, and diverse dance forms. Over time, sangaku evolved into sarugaku during the Heian and Kamakura periods. Sarugaku troupes, such as Yusaki-za, Sakado-za, Tobi-za, and Enmai-za, emerged as prominent entities, laying the foundation for the four enduring Noh schools: Kanze, Kongo, Hosho, and Komparu. Kanami, leader of the Yusaki-za, introduced storytelling dance, known as kusemai, into Noh, garnering favor from the shoguns. His son, Zeami, inherited Noh and, with the support of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, expanded its repertoire, crafting over 50 Noh works, with his poetry and prose still cherished in performance today.

Under the Tokugawa Shogunate's patronage, Noh thrived and was designated "shiki-gaku," the government's official art form. Following the Tokugawa era's demise and the onset of the Meiji Period (1868-1912), Noh underwent significant transformations. A hierarchical structure, elevating the iemoto (school head) to supreme authority, was established, Noh and Kyogen merged into Nohgaku, and numerous indoor stages were erected. Presently, many enthusiasts engage in utai (vocal) and shimai (short dance) as a pastime, ensuring the perpetuation of Noh's ancient traditions.

 Close

the noh stage

Originally, Noh stages were erected independently outdoors, often in proximity to Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. However, in contemporary times, Noh performances take place within designated Nohgakudo theaters specifically designed for this art form. One such example is the Yamamoto Noh Theater, which embodies typical Nohgakudo architecture while also recreating a traditional ambiance. Its tatami flooring for the audience and LED lighting, mimicking natural sunlight transitions, contribute to this atmosphere. The cypress boards on the floor are strategically arranged to facilitate the customary back-to-front movement seen in Noh performances.

The backdrop of the stage consistently features a depiction of a pine tree, known as kagami-ita. Despite its presence, this image holds no direct relevance to the play's content, and no scenic transitions occur between acts in Noh. The kagami-ita harks back to ancient Japan when Noh was performed in rituals dedicated to gods and deities. The pine tree symbolizes a yorishiro, an object believed to be inhabited by visiting spirits. The kagami-ita, or mirror-board, is considered a reflection of the pine tree once situated before the stage.

Adjacent to the stage is the hashigakari, or bridge, a long passageway utilized for actors' entrances and exits. Given that many Noh characters are ghosts or divine beings, the hashigakari can also be interpreted as a link between our world and the realm beyond. Along this passage, three pine trees gradually increase in size, creating a sense of perspective and evoking the perception of distance, including distant lands like China.

Behind the curtain lies the kagami-no-ma, or Mirror Chamber. Here, actors don their costumes, face the mirror to steady their spirits, and finally put on the Noh mask as they await their moment to step onto the stage.

1 The main stage
2 hashigakari - bridgeway connecting the greenroom with the main stage)
3 kagami-ita - "mirror board" - a depiction of a sacred pine tree
4 kiritoguchi - porch used by the choir and assistants
5 age-maku - five-coloured curtain
6 first, second and third pine trees
7 metsuke-bashira - pillar
8 waki-bashira - pillar near the place where the waki actor stands
9 fue-bashira - pillar near the flute player
10 shite-bashira - pillar 
11 kizahashi - a short ladder that was used by the aristocrats to award performers
12 kagami-no-ma - "mirror chamber" used for the final preparations of the actors

 Close

roles

In Noh theater, actors specialize in various roles, with those wearing masks and portraying main characters known as shite-kata. Additional shite-kata roles include tsure (the companion), ji-utai (the chorus), kōken (the assistants). The secondary role is performed by waki-kata, whose purpose is to elicit reactions from the main character. Waki-kata characters, often traveling monks or imperial envoys, typically sit in the front-right corner of the stage. The kyōgen-kata connects the first and second acts by narrating a story related to the main character, while the hayashi-kata comprises four musicians, including a flutist and three percussionists. Each actor remains dedicated to their assigned role throughout their career, with no crossover between roles.

Noh plays are categorized into five genres: shin (deity), nan (male), nyo (female), kyou (insane), and ki (demon). During the Edo period, performances followed the goban-date system, starting with a deity play in the morning and concluding with a demon play at sunset. The Okina ceremonial performance traditionally preceded all other Noh genres. In modern performances, up to three Noh plays may be presented, interspersed with Kyogen acts.

The main types of Noh plays are:

- First (deity): Featuring Buddhist or Shinto deities, these plays typically end with a blessing dance by the main character and are considered auspicious (wakinou-mono).

- Second (male): Often portraying the ghost of a warrior, these plays, derived from stories like the Heike-monogatari, explore themes of redemption for bloodshed (shura-mono).

- Third (female): Centered around the ghost of a noble lady, these plays highlight themes of beauty and tragedy (kadzura-mono).

- Fourth (miscellaneous): Encompassing characters like insane individuals, this genre includes plays that do not fit into other categories (zatsu-nou or kijo-mono).

- Fifth (demon): In these plays, demons are the main characters, typically ending with their subjugation by a priest or warrior (kiri-nou).

 Close

noh music

In Noh theater, music comprises two key elements: utai and hayashi. Utai, the libretto, is written in classical Japanese predating the Muromachi era (14-16th c.), often challenging for modern audiences to comprehend. Nevertheless, audiences can still appreciate Noh performances by immersing themselves in the play's mood, listening to the chant's tones, and observing the masks' expressions and costume colors. Hayashi, the musical accompaniment, features fue (flute), ko-tsuzumi (small hand drum), oo-tsuzumi (larger hand drum), and taiko (big stick drum), instruments crafted over 300 years ago and still used today.

In contrast to Western music, Noh lacks absolute pitch, with singing tones varying in each performance. The musical instruments also lack fixed tones, primarily serving rhythmic purposes. 

The Noh orchestra operates without a conductor. Percussionists utilize specific shouts to synchronize their performances. While these shouts may seem unusual, they constitute a crucial aspect of the performance.

The majority of instruments employed in Noh were crafted between 100 to 400 years ago. They are revered and passed down through generations, continuing to be utilized in contemporary performances. Thus, they represent the enduring sounds of ancient Japan that persist in modern times.

Noh-kan

On the far right of the Noh orchestra sits the flutist, who plays the Noh-kan, a bamboo flute enveloped in smoked cherry-tree bark. Within the flute lies a secondary tube known as the "nodo" (throat), which contributes to the flute's distinctive and fluctuating sound.

Ko-tsuzumi

Adjacent to the flutist is the Ko-tsuzumi percussionist, whose instrument emits a gentle sound thanks to its moisture-absorbent membrane crafted from delicate horse leather. To adjust moisture levels, percussionists may apply saliva to the rear membrane. The drum-faces are affixed on either side of the instrument using a single rope.

Oo-tsuzumi

Occupying the second position from the left is the Oo-tsuzumi performer. The Oo-tsuzumi, renowned for its piercing tones, is known to be among the most painful instruments to play. Many performers wear finger protectors, yet their fingers still hurt. The membranes are very dry and give off a loud and shrill sound.

Taiko

Situated at the far left is the Taiko drummer, who is active only during the second act of a Noh play, signifying the entrance of formidable characters like deities or demons. The Taiko features a small circular section crafted from deer skin, serving as the sole point where drumsticks may strike its surface.

Unlike many performing arts, Noh theater eschews rehearsals, opting for a single moushi-awase, or arrangement practice, conducted before performances. This one-time practice fosters a unique, spontaneous performance, contributing to Noh's enduring tradition spanning over 650 years.

 Close

noh masks

Noh drama is indeed characterized as a theater of masks, with masks worn primarily by the shite and tsure actors. These masks possess a unique quality, allowing for the vague expression of emotions. Through subtle head movements, actors can convey a range of emotions such as sadness or happiness. The masks themselves act as actors, conveying the protagonist's thoughts through the combination of chanting and facial expressions.

With approximately 60 different types, Noh masks represent various characters including deities, women, samurai ghosts, vengeful spirits, and demons. Before donning a mask, performers traditionally bow to it, expressing gratitude to the ancestors and the spirit within.

Among the most common masks are:

 Close

videos

Trailer of our new Noh play "Orpheus" premiered at the Antique Roman Amphitheatre in Plovdiv, Bulgaria during European Capital of Culture Plovdiv 2019

A video introduction to the "Nohgakudo" - a theatre dedicated to the classical Japanese Noh drama.

A video trailer of the Noh play "Kanawa" - "The Trivet Crown".

An episode of our animated series "5-minute Noh", introducing one of the most representable Noh plays - "Hagoromo".

 Close

picture gallery

PERFORMANCES ABROAD

PERFORMANCES

 Close

ohayashi sensei

The Japanese classical drama - Noh, is one of the oldest still existing performing arts in the world. Its peculiar and mysterious music style called Hayashi, has never ceased to mesmerise the audience, whether it be the samurai warriors of ancient Japan, or the punctual Japanese businessmen of modern times. The musical instruments used in Noh are four - three drums and one flute. With Ohayashi Sensei you have the unique opportunity to experience the exquisiteness of the music of Noh, as well as play the instruments yourself - in an easy and fun way. Pick any of the four instruments and start practicing right away.

In OHAYASHI SENSEI you can play all four instruments used in Noh drama - flute (fue), shoulder drum (kotsuzumi), hip drum (ootsuzumi), and stick drum (taiko). You can also play the yelps and shouts (kakegoe), used by the musicians to synchronise their performance. For every instrument there is a gameplay mode, in which through visual indications you can learn the rhythm of the most common melody in Noh drama, chuu-no-mai, and test your musical skills.

OHAYASHI SENSEI was developed with the generous support of the Japanese Agency for Cultural Affairs in order to help elementary school teachers present the peculiar instruments and styles of Japanese traditional music. OHAYASHI SENSEI represents all four instruments very faithfully - all of the recorded sound samples were performed by professional hayashi musicians on the Noh stage of Yamamoto Nohgakudo in Osaka, Japan. There are also explanations about the role and peculiarities of each instrument. The app is completely free.

 Close

WeNoh!

Welcome to the world of Japanese Noh drama! With this app, anyone can enjoy the exquisite world of the intangible cultural heritage that is the classical art of Noh. Even if you have only 5 minutes before the performance, you can watch the animated stories of the plays or read the highlights and synopsis so that you can fully enjoy the actual dramas. Each play is provided with cards depicting and explaining the costumes, masks and props used in it. You can also learn about Noh through games. Whether you are viewing a live performance or not, this app will give you an insight into the world of Noh.

FEATURES
◆ Learn about the Noh stage and roles in a fun and easy way!
The ancient Noh drama has deep roots in Japanese history and culture. In "We Noh", the character Okina will explain anything you need to know about the fundamental elements of Noh, so that you can fully appreciate a performance.

◆ Anyone can enjoy the animated plays!
Since Noh is an ancient drama, it is performed in classical Japanese language, which makes the plot very difficult to understand without any prior knowledge. To help you enjoy the actual performances, we have animated each play faithfully following the original scripts. Even if you only have 5 minutes before the performance, you can use our app to arm yourself with the necessary knowledge.

The costumes of all dramatis personae, as well as their order of appearance, are faithful to the original plays, and the lines of all animated characters are a digest of the actual text. You can even use the animation as a reference as to which scene of the play is being currently performed.

Each play is also provided with detailed information about its type, creator, as well as synopsis and highlights, which will help you enjoy any Noh play to the maximum. The gallery will also give you cards with visual explanations of the props used in the performance. You can even check the original libretto of the play.

* This app is based on the Kanze school tradition. Direction of plays may differ in other schools, as well as "kogaki" variations.

◆ Learn about Noh masks and costumes through cards!
Each play is provided with beautifully drawn cards, containing illustrations and information about props used in the play. The cards of all plays can be found in the main "Gallery" section which is divided into "Masks", "Costumes", "Headgear", "Fans", "Handheld" and "Props" subsections.

◆ Play and learn at the same time!
We know that knowledge is more easily acquired through games. That is why we have provided two different learning games for you to choose from. With "Noh Memory", you can learn about the Noh masks by pairing matching cards. The four levels of difficulty will challenge your cognitive abilities. With "Noh Brainer" you must help the warrior Hitorimusha fight the ogre Tsuchigumo by answering questions from various fields in Noh. Give correct answers to all questions to defeat the monster.

◆ New plays will be added!
We will continue expanding our content, by choosing the most famous and most representative Noh plays. Expect many more animations and cards in the near future.

◆ All content is provided in English and Japanese, so that more people can enjoy the tradition of Noh drama!
With this app we aim to promote the oldest still existing masked drama in the world - the Japanese classical Noh drama. Have fun and explore the world of this ancient performing art.

 Close

Kamigatamaru's school of japan

Welcome to Kamigatamaru's traditional Japanese culture school. With this app you can have fun while learning about the traditional arts born in the Kamigata region. Kamigatamaru has moved to Osaka to learn the traditional performing arts of the Kamigata region. There he encounters the ghosts of Zeami, Chikamatsu, and Okuni, who decide to teach him the basics of Noh, Bunraku and Kabuki. Listen to the lectures, and earn money by playing games and testing what you’ve learned, Then you can buy the necessary furniture / costumes to display in your room or dressing room. You can also buy hairstyles and foods that match your taste. Help Kamigatamaru master the traditional performing arts of Japan.Features
◆ Learn Noh, Bunraku and Kabuki, and collect costumes and hairstyles.

◆ You can learn from Zeami, Chikamatsu and Okuni about the traditional arts.

◆ Make money by playing games about each of the traditional performing arts.

◆ By presenting what you’ve learned, you unlock the necessary furniture for a dressing room. 

◆ Collect furniture and props for your own room and dressing room. 

◆ You can check the stages where each art is performed on the map of Osaka.

A fun app to learn about the traditional arts born in the Japanese Kamigata region. Study under the ghosts of Zeami, Chikamatsu, and Okuni and fulfill Kamigatamaru's dream!

 Close

maimai revolution

Kamigata Maru is back! This time, Kamigata Maru will learn a wide range of Noh, including the Noh dance, its history, and methods of expression. First, you will learn the duties of a Noh actor by performing various chores such as cleaning the Noh stage and putting away costumes. Once you have learned the basics, you will be given dance lessons. If you perform the dances you have learned and receive good reviews, you will receive a new chant book, fan, Noh mask, and costume. Now, let's become a full-fledged Noh actor.Features
Learn the history and expression of Noh as well as the Noh dance.
By increasing your fan base, you can collect chant books, fans, Noh masks, and costumes.

 Close

super utai

The long awaited game that teaches you the basics of the Utai singing in Noh has arrived! Now everyone can easily learn and have tons of fun with the ancient Japanese performing art of Noh. Have you ever tried to sing Utai? With SUPER UTAI you can easily learn the basics and perform in front of audience. The better your performance, the more fans will come listen to you. Can you become so good, that even the most prominent figures in Noh history come listen to you? Can you collect all trophies?FEATURES 
◆ A game that can equally be enjoyed by children and adults!
The seven basic tones in Noh are represented by colored dots. The changes of these tones are in turn represented by special signs called Fushi. Each Fushi sign corresponds to a certain pattern in the colored dots. At first you must collect the dots in their proper pitch line to advance further. If you do well, the dots will start to disappear and you will have to use the Fushi signs as a guide to the required change of tone. It is not as complex as it may sound. Try for yourself. The fewer mistakes you make, the more fans will come to listen. Can you make lots of fans?

◆ You can learn to sing Noh songs!
We have selected the most popular Noh songs in the Kanze school repertoire for your entertainment. Besides the “game” mode, there is an “exercise” mode that works like a karaoke machine. You can use it to learn certain excerpts from Noh plays, such as “Takasago”, which is often performed at Japanese traditional weddings.

◆ Three difficulty modes - plum, bamboo and pine!
If you think you have learned the Fushi signs, try one of the next levels, where you have no colored dots to guide you. The higher the difficulty level, the better the chance a rare guest will come listen to you.

◆ The guests will teach you about the history of Noh!
When you get an excellent score on a difficult level, a new rare guest will be added to your fan group. You can learn about the guests by tapping on them in the special guest lounge. Can you collect all of the guests?

◆ Constantly expanding library.
We are aiming to make a big library of Noh songs and full plays. We intend to add the more popular and most auspicious songs and plays for your enjoyment.

With SUPER UTAI you can become a part of the history of the most ancient still existing masked drama. What are you waiting for? Download SUPER UTAI and become a Noh legend!

 Close

yamamoto noh

The specialized app of Yamamoto Noh Theater, dedicated to the presentation and promotion of the Japanese traditional performing arts, has finally arrived! Through this app you can get acquainted with the theatre’s history and activities, watch subtitles in your language during the live performances and learn about the magic of Noh and other Japanese traditional performing arts. This app is a valuable tool to fully enjoy and understand the rich culture of the Osaka region. Features
◆ Comprehensive explanations.
Learn about all crucial elements of Japan's traditional performing arts, including the world’s oldest existing masked theatre - the Noh drama. Learn about the costumes, stage, roles and history.

◆ Live subtitles.
Since Noh and other traditional stage arts are performed in classical Japanese language, which even Japanese people find hard to understand, we offer you a new level of comprehension through our live subtitles during our performances. You only need an internet connection to watch the performance in modern Japanese, English, or even get a deeper insight through the commentary tab.

◆ Expand your knowledge.
Prior to each performance you can expand your knowledge of the play by switching to our Handouts channel. Here you can learn about the synopsis and highlights, so that you can fully understand and enjoy the play.

◆ Performance schedule
In this app you can always see the Yamamoto Noh Theater's performance schedule. Every week we have a wide variety of shows, so don't forget to check regularly. 

In order to satisfy your needs and keep you constantly informed on the cultural life of Osaka, we plan on adding many new exciting features. Stay tuned for further additions in the app's features. 
Come to Yamamoto Noh Theater and enjoy the tastiest morsels of Japan’s traditional stage performances.

 Close