The World of Noh: From Mask to Movement
Experience the world of noh through an intimate demonstration by a professional actor, set in a traditional venue. The program features performances of chant and dance, along with close-up introductions to the masks, costumes, and fans that bring this centuries-old tradition to life. With expert commentary throughout, audiences gain rare insight into the art’s expressive power and layered symbolism. The event can also be expanded to include additional performers or extended scenes, tailored to the occasion.
Duration: 60-90 min
Noh Mask Studio Visit
This program offers a guided introduction to noh through attendance at a live performance in a traditional theatre. Guests are personally escorted to the venue, where they will view a play selected in consultation to reflect seasonal themes, special interests, or particular requests. Before the performance, we provide context on the play’s background, structure, and key elements. The commentary and discussion deepen the experience, offering insights into the performance style, roles, and aesthetic choices. This curated approach allows guests to engage with noh in an informed and meaningful way.
Duration: 60 – 120 min
Noh in the village of Ohara
Workshop and demonstration with an actor and a private temple visit.
Duration: 180min
Enjoy a Kyoto Merchant-Style Celebration With a Noh Actor
Noh is a traditional Japanese performing art with a history of over 600 years. In Kyoto, merchants historically performed noh during celebrations. In this experience, you can rent a venue with a noh stage and experience a Kyoto-style celebration with a noh performance. Before the performance, the noh actor will explain the basics of noh, including its costumes and masks. Celebrate a special anniversary in style while enjoying noh and Japanese cuisine.
Duration: 180min
Explore Japan’s Finest Hospitality With Noh & Tea Ceremony – Includes Private Performance
Experience the essence of Japan by delving into the world of noh, a form of dance-drama performed since the 14th century. At Kyoto’s Shinyo Kaikan – home to a noh theater and tea ceremony room – you’ll gain insights into its intimate links to tea ceremony and how both were historically the greatest forms of hospitality for the aristocracy, samurai, and other cultural elites. After a tea ceremony performed by a third-generation practitioner, deepen your understanding by viewing genuine masks, costumes, and more with a noh actor. Finally, engage your senses with a mesmerizing private performance (Wabunka).
120min
The NŌWHERE Tours
Fixed-schedule tours: 15,000- yen /pax
Free-schedule tours: please inquire for details
March2 (Sun)
April 12 (Sat)
April 27 (Sun)
June 22 (Sun)
Discover a Kyoto that can only be found through the narratives of noh. Visit the shrines and temples that are the background to noh plays or explore the seasonal events and traditional crafts with a specialist guide.
*Available in combination with theatre visits or workshops
Past tours have featured: Gion Festival floats, Nishijin textile museums, swordsmiths and walking tours of sites related to noh plays.
Duration 2 – 8 hours
Private performances and special experiences
Please contact us from the form below or email us: info[at]discovernohinkyoto.jp
＊ A portion of our proceeds is allocated to foster educational initiatives for students and young audiences, supporting the art form’s transmission to future generations.
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