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Published: November 19th 2005
Strike a pose, Imperial Guard style
The Imperial Guard poses for a picture after the performance. He had a large role in the kagura we watched, and along with the serpents remained on stage after the show for picture taking opportunities. I really loved his costume!The last 2 Saturdays have brought a bit of adventure and sites of interest. Last Saturday, November 12th, I viewed Kagura in front of Hiroshima Castle with Heather, Jennifer, and Alexis.
Kagura is a dance from ancient times that is performed in honour of the gods. It was thought that the dance could coax the sun goddess out of her cave. Nowadays, kagura is performed at shrines in autumn to give thanks for the local harvest and simply as entertainment.
In front of the castle we watched a performance of Iwami style kagura, which originated in the neighbouring prefecture of Shimane. The performers wear colourful costumes, complete with interesting masks, and are accompanied on stage by drummers and flutists, creating hypnotic music.
The kagura we watched, called Takiyasha-hime, was a story of a daughter who places a curse on her father's enemies and their boats. However, the Imperial Guard is sent to break the curse. I got most of this information from a website, as understanding sung Japanese is not my forte! However, from what I gathered parts of the performance were not only dramatic, but also humourous, as much of the audience laughed aloud. The most thrilling
Loyal Daughter
The daughter placing a curse. The musicians are on the right-hand side of the stage. part of the show was the serpents! Hopefully the pictures will give you an idea of how spectacular the costumes really were.
This Saturday, the 19th, Dob, Alexis, and I climbed a mountain, called Takaiyama (literally translating to "big mountain") right here in Fuchucho. The mountain climb was not nearly as perilous as Fuji-san, however the view from the top was beautiful. The autumn leaves are still in an ongoing colour transition, and it was a gorgeous fall day. The 4 hours on the hike were a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. It was also good as I got to see parts of Fuchucho that I haven't seen as of yet...So much more exploring to do!
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anonymous
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Hi Stacey; Have been off line for a while but am glad to see your latest adventures. You certainly are on top of the world!!! Look forward to more. Love ya Auntie Sharon