Intangible Cultural Property (Japan)
An Intangible Cultural Property , as defined by the Japanese government's Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties (1950), is a part of the Cultural Properties of high historical or artistic value such as drama, music, and craft techniques. The term refers exclusively to human skills possessed by individuals or groups which are indispensable to produce Cultural Properties.
Image: Osonowiki
Image: Bunraku doll in national theatre Osaka 1
Image: Fumie Hihara, au shamisen (danse du Kabuki, musée Guimet)
Image: Sanshin
Noh is a major form of classical Japanese dance-drama that has been performed since the 14th century. Developed by Kan'ami and his son Zeami, it is the oldest major theater art that is still regularly performed today. Although the terms Noh and nōgaku are sometimes used interchangeably, nōgaku encompasses both Noh and kyōgen. Traditionally, a full nōgaku program included several Noh plays with comedic kyōgen plays in between; an abbreviated program of two Noh plays with one kyōgen piece has become common today. Optionally, the ritual performance Okina may be presented in the very beginning of nōgaku presentation.
Noh performance at Itsukushima Shrine
World's oldest Noh stage at Miyajima
Karaori garment, Edo period, 18th century, bamboo and chrysanthemum design on red and white checkered ground
Kanze Sakon [ja] (1895–1939), head (sōke) of Kanze school