John Dougill writes… For many people Noh is a turn-off. The plays have no conflict, no humour and no facial expression. Actors move at a snail’s pace, the language is arcane and the music archaic. To its detractors it’s simply an outmoded relic of medieval times. Noh way, Noh thank you. There are regular performances in Kyoto, and if you attend you’ll find a good number … [Read more...] about Takigi Noh (Noh by Firelight)
Ikkyū
Ian Ropke writes... Ikkyū was a Zen monk who was famous for burning the candle of life at both ends. By day, he was devout and extremely accomplished monk and scholar. By night, he reveled in the so-called “floating world” of drink and women. He lived in tumultuous 15th century Japan at a time when most of the country was ruined by civil war. Ikkyū was born the … [Read more...] about Ikkyū
Geisha Dance: Kamogawa Odori
John Dougill writes... Charlie Chaplin loved it, and so have thousands of others. The Kamogawa Odori is simply irresistible and a rare chance to see geisha perform in public. It helps make May the merriest month of the year. Kyoto has five geisha areas in all, popularly known as 'hanamachi' or flower districts. Gion is the biggest and best-known; Pontocho which stages … [Read more...] about Geisha Dance: Kamogawa Odori
Introducing John Dougill
I am very happy to welcome a new regular contributor to Deep Kyoto: Mr. John Dougill. Born in Yorkshire, John Dougill first came to Japan in 1986 and to Kyoto in 1994. He has taught in several universities but is now happily employed at Kyoto’s Ryukoku University as professor of British Studies. His fascinating book Kyoto: A Cultural History makes his love for the city … [Read more...] about Introducing John Dougill
Thilaga Indian Restaurant
Mewby found this place one night on the net when she was really craving curry. The first thing that struck me was "They can't spell Indian." But somehow that only made me like them all the more. And besides spelling* is not important in an Indian restaurant. Curry is. Curry is everything. However, I'm not quite sure what to say about Thilaga's curry. The food is … [Read more...] about Thilaga Indian Restaurant
