 |
|
|
|
||||||||||
|
|
Classic Performing Arts
While in Japan, make it a point to experience at least one of the classical performances available. Try Noh drama for a start. A highly stylized stage art with 700 years of history, Noh is rooted in ancient Shinto rites. The stage is roofed to look like a Shinto shrine. Actors wear masks and gorgeous elaborate costumes and performances involve highly stylized movements. You can occasionally catch a Noh drama at public halls such as the Tokyo's National Noh Theater in the Shinjuku district. There are also performances at Noh schools such as the Kanze Nohgakudo in Shibuya, the Kita Nohgakudo in Shinagawa, and the Umewaka Nohgakudo in Nakano (all three cities in Tokyo). These locations mentioned are at indoor performance spaces. However, Noh is actually best appreciated at open-air, torch-lit performances in temples. Another not-to-be-missed classical drama would be the Kabuki. Rated as one of the most popular traditional entertainment, this secular classical drama boasts vivid makeup, spectacular costumes and sets, and dramatic action. Exciting scenes include sword-fighting, dancing and even actors flying from the stage over the audience. The best venues for Kabuki are in Tokyo. The Kabuki-za in Ginza stages plays throughout the year. Another place to catch the Kabuki is at the Shimbashi Embujo, also in Ginza. On occasion, the National Theater of Japan near the Imperial Palace hosts touring Kabuki companies. An interesting classical performance that reflects the unique identity of Japan is Bunraku, an elaborate form of puppet theater. Three puppeteers working in tandem manipulate wooden and porcelain figures, which are about three-quarters life-size. Bunraku is an exotic and aesthetically pleasing form of storytelling. Stories are narrated by formally clad masters and accompanied by Shamisen. Although Osaka is the spiritual center of Bunraku, performances are sometimes scheduled at the Small Hall of Tokyo's National Theater. Museums & Art Galleries
Japan is a country with a fascinating history. The archeological artifacts, crafts and artistic masterpieces housed in its museums reflect the nation's rich past and its people as a whole. The following is a brief guide to some of the museums and treasures awaiting the curious traveler. Tokyo National Museum The Tokyo National Museum was first established in 1871 in Ueno Park. Its extensive collection provides a comprehensive overview of the entire history of traditional Japanese art. It also houses exhibits relating to history, science and natural history. Kyoto National Museum Originally housing paintings, sculptures and other treasures from temples in the vicinity, this museum now also contains examples of Japanese art from all periods. Nara National Museum This museum is dedicated to Buddhist sculpture, and is a showcase of the religious history of a now secular nation. Tokugawa Art Museum The Tokugawa Art Museum is located in Nagoya. It specializes in Noh costumes, swords, armor and other samurai relics. Seisonkaku An unusual 'museum', the Seisonkaku displays the ancestral treasures of an old Daimyo family. It is distinguished by the fact that it is housed in the family's original estate. You will find the Seisonkaku in the city of Kanazawa. Private Collections There are also various museums in Tokyo that are privatized. These museums are dedicated to the preservation of traditional art. Among them are the Goto Art Museum, the Nezu Institute of Fine Arts, the Hatakeyama Collection and the Okura Shukokan Museum. In addition to private museums, there are many collections, which are housed in office buildings. These include the Idemitsu Museum of Arts, the Suntory Museum of Art, and the Yamatane Museum of Art. In Japan, many of the larger department stores in major cities contain art galleries on their upper floors, which regularly feature exhibitions of traditional and modern artists, both Japanese and international.
|
|
BROWSE Home
l Places
of Interest l Outdoor
Travel l Food
in Asia l General
Info l Entertainment DESTINATIONS Australia
l Bali
l Brunei
l China
l Hong
Kong l Japan
l Korea
l Macau
l Malaysia
l Myanmar
l New
Zealand Copyright © by Hotnet Sdn.Bhd. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED |
