A moment to confront one's own spirit on the Kamakura Noh stage.

It was my first time at the Kamakura Noh stage. After transferring to the Enoden train from Kamakura and getting off at Hase Station, a very stylish townscape awaited me.
From traditional Japanese confectionery shops and stylish restaurants to artisan-themed stores and folk art shops, everything I saw was fresh and new. After walking for about seven minutes from the station, I arrived at the Kamakura Noh Stage.

* Noh play "Yumi Hachiman" (Shite: Ken'nosuke Nakamori) / Photography: Sosuke Komai

Located in a residential area, the Kamakura Noh Stage was built 50 years ago.
I can't believe a place like this exists in a place like this!
As I entered, filled with excitement, I was greeted by a stage that was both majestic and serene, and I felt a sense of mystery.

* Noh play "Yumi Hachiman" (Shite: Ken'nosuke Nakamori) / Photography: Sosuke Komai

This time it was a "Noh Learning Session for the Residents of the Prefecture." There was a pre-talk on Noh by Mr. Kanta Nakamori, which made learning about Noh very easy to understand.
The history and stories of Noh theater. The leisurely movements, the calls emanating from the diaphragm, the dignified beauty of stillness... I felt with my body the gestures that only the Japanese can express.

* Noh play "Yumi Hachiman" (Shite: Ken'nosuke Nakamori) / Photography: Sosuke Komai

What was particularly impressive was the "Kamimai" (sacred dance) at "Yumihachiman." I was completely captivated as I watched it.
The emotions welled up in me in a steady rhythm, and I was once again moved by the splendor of Japanese culture.

To cherish each moment and live while being mindful of the "space" between events. Watching Noh theater allowed me to confront my own spirit.
Thank you for a wonderful start to 2019.

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