The Noh Stage

The Noh play takes place on a sparse stage made out of Hinoki(Japanese Cypress) wood. The stage is bare with the exception of the "kagami-ita", a painting of a pine-tree at the back of the stage. There are many explanations for this tree, one of the more common being that it symbolizes a means by which deities were said to descend to earth in Shinto ritual.

Another unique feature of the stage is the "Hashigakari", the narrow bridge to the left of the stage that the principal actors use to enter the stage. This would later evolve into the Hanamichi in Kabuki.

In contrast to the unadorned stage, costumes are lavish. Many actors, especially those in the shite role, wear rich silk brocades.