A special autumn performance of Mibu Kyogen, a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property affectionately known as "Mibu-san's Kanden-den," began on October 11, 2025, at Mibu Temple in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City. Performances included "Horakuwari," a spectacular smashing of an unglazed earthenware pot, eliciting applause and cheers from the worshippers.
Mibu Kyogen is said to have originated in 1300 AD as a silent theater performance using gestures and hand movements, begun by Engaku Shonin in an attempt to preach Buddhist teachings to the common people. Originally a religious play, it has evolved into popular entertainment, and currently consists of 30 plays.
The opening performance, Horakuwari, tells the story of a cheating Horaku seller who faces retaliation from his rival, a drum seller, over who will be the first to open a stall in the market. Towards the end of the story, the drum seller drops about 1,000 firearms stacked on a stage about 3 meters high to the ground, one after another, shattering them, sending up a huge bang and sending up dust, and the audience erupted in applause.
Stages run until October 13th. Six performances will be held each day from 1pm to around 5:30pm. Admission fees apply.
