'Takigi Noh' performed under illuminated Himeji Castle

'Takigi Noh' performed under illuminated Himeji Castle

HIMEJI, Japan - "Takigi Noh," a traditional Japanese musical drama, is played against the backdrop of the illuminated Himeji Castle in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, on Aug. 1, 2014. "Takigi Noh" is a special form of Noh performed on an outdoor stage lit by "takigi" firewood after dark. The recently refurbished castle is a national treasure of Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Takigi O-Noh traditional musical drama staged in Nara

Takigi O-Noh traditional musical drama staged in Nara

Takigi O-Noh (Bonfire Noh), a traditional Japanese musical drama usually staged in the open air, is performed indoors at the Nara Prefectural Cultural Hall in Nara, western Japan, on May 15, 2015, as rain was expected on the opening night of the seasonal event. Lights mimicking bonfires were placed on the stage. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

Takigi O-Noh traditional musical drama performed in Nara

Takigi O-Noh traditional musical drama performed in Nara

Takigi O-Noh, a traditional Japanese musical drama usually performed on an open-air stage, is performed indoors at the Nara Prefectural Cultural Hall in Nara, western Japan, on May 15, 2015, as it was expected to rain on the opening night of the traditional seasonal event. (Kyodo) ==Kyodo

'Takigi Noh' performed under illuminated Himeji Castle

'Takigi Noh' performed under illuminated Himeji Castle

HIMEJI, Japan - "Takigi Noh," a traditional Japanese musical drama, is played against the backdrop of the illuminated Himeji Castle in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, on Aug. 1, 2014. "Takigi Noh" is a special form of Noh performed on an outdoor stage lit by "takigi" firewood after dark. The recently refurbished castle is a national treasure of Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Kyodo)