In this episode, I explore one of Japan’s most enduring heroic ideals through the fierce, poetic story of Hashi Benkei. Beneath a brief duel on Gojō Bridge lies a profound transformation—where pride yields to reverence, and loyalty becomes a spiritual vow.

From Buddhist ideals to samurai devotion, this story continues to echo through Noh theater and cultural memory.

Join me in tracing that moment of surrender… that dream of heroic loyalty.

Kakitsubata: A Poem, a Spirit, and the Stillness Between Worlds | Noh Theatre Reflection

In this reflective episode, I prepare to watch the Noh play Kakitsubata (The Iris) for the very first time.

Through a single ancient poem—subtle, acrostic, and filled with longing—Kakitsubata weaves Buddhist ideas of impermanence, Shinto reverence for nature, and Zen’s quiet simplicity into a single ritual moment.

We explore:

• A hidden acrostic poem from The Tales of Ise

• The spirit of kotodama—language as sacred force

• Sōmoku jōbutsu: the belief that even plants can reach enlightenment

• How poetry, dance, and silence create spiritual harmony on stage

Kakitsubata doesn’t try to explain—it gently invites.

In the Noh play Ōeyama, it’s not the demon who deceives — but the humans.

A haunting story of honor, betrayal, and silence.

Experience it live this June in Tokyo.

Performance Details

Date: June 21, 2025

Venue: Hōshō Noh Theater (宝生能楽堂), Tokyo

Doors open: 2:45 PM | Performance starts: 3:30 PM (Afternoon Program)

Tickets: ¥5,500 (General) | ¥2,700 (Students)

Available at the venue while supplies last

Note: I have no affiliation with Hōshō Noh Theater.

Before You Go

The Unspoken Rules of Noh: When to Applaud

A 1-minute guide for first-timers:

iTunes: https://apple.co/41E31wd

YouTube: https://youtu.be/CHPXWbRd9t0

Hashtags:

#Ōeyama #NohTheater #JapaneseCulture #ShutenDōji #TokyoEvents #TraditionalArts #CulturalWisdom #TheaterShorts #宝生能楽堂 #NohPerformance

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Instagram caption for your Ōeyama Reel

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Ōeyama: The Demon Who Speaks the Truth

A warrior is sent to slay a demon.

But when they meet — it’s the demon who shows kindness.

And the humans who betray.

This is Noh at its quietest… and most piercing.

Live Performance Info

Date: June 21st, 2025

Venue: 宝生能楽堂 (Hōshō Noh Theater), Tokyo

Time: Doors open 2:45 PM | Start 3:30 PM (Afternoon program)

Tickets: ¥5,500 General | ¥2,700 Students

Available at the venue while supplies last

Note: I have no affiliation with Hōshō Noh Theater.

Before You Head to the Noh Theater:

“The Unspoken Rules of Noh: When to Applaud” — explained in just 1 minute

iTunes: https://apple.co/41E31wd

YouTube: https://youtu.be/CHPXWbRd9t0