Nenbutsu Kyogen: Buddhist Teachings Behind Masked Theater

Overview

Nenbutsu Kyogen is held at Kyoto temples in spring. This masked theater began here 1,000 years ago as group recitations of Buddhist teachings to receive greater blessings. In time this evolved into a means of imparting the teachings through comedic theater, and today amateur locals avidly perform and preserve the tradition. The 3 main temples are Seiryo-ji, Injo-ji, and Mibu-dera. Discover the local's deep Buddhist faith and their strong community ties through this age-old performing art.