Noh, Spirituality, and a Meal with the Gods at Afuri Shrine

Noh is a performance art that is over 700 years old. Predating kabuki, Noh uses masks during the performance to tell stories. On this one-night tour, experience Noh in a whole new way- an in-depth look at this art form, along with the related spiritual aspects. First, you’ll check into the local shukubo, an accommodation experience in which visitors stay at the facility of a Buddhist temple. This family-owned accommodation is over 300 years old. Meguro-san, the head priest and your host for this journey, is part of the family that has been hosting pilgrims since the Edo period. After checking in, you’ll head to the Noh stage. Normally, only official Noh performers can stand on this stage, but on this special tour, you’ll have VIP access! A translator will explain the history and culture of the Nohgaku art form, and you can try on the Noh masks and clothes. Back at the shukubo, enjoy dinner prepared with local ingredients. This area is famous for tofu, so the meal is packed with delicious tofu dishes, as well as piping-hot sukiyaki (simmered beef and vegetables). Then, tuck in and get ready for the next day. In the morning, enjoy a healthy breakfast. Then you’ll dress up in “haiku” or traditional pilgrim's clothing. After the preparations, it’s time to head to the Shrine! The prayer starts at the shukubo ryokan, with a purification ceremony. You will carry a wooden fortune representing a sword, called a samedachi, up to Afuri Shrine. Since the journey is far on foot, you'll hop on the cable car and enjoy the views of Mt. Oyama. Once the ceremony is complete, you’ll kanpai (cheers) to the gods at a cafe next to the shrine. Enjoy a drink and cafe treat, in this special naorai meal, or a meal shared with the gods. Relax and enjoy the beautiful view of Isehara.