Click on each mask name to see the image and explanation.
| In the first Japanese dynasty, during the 3rd and 4th centuries, the Yamato
Chotei (kingdom) unified the districts. During that time the district lords
dedicated the Kagura play to prove their hearts were submissive. When the lords expressed their greetings to the Yamato Emperor, it became the source of the Okina play. The Okina mask is the oldest of the Noh masks. The rounded eyebrow and the separated chin makes it different from the other Noh masks. Enmekaja followed during the Kamakura Dynasty and these masks were used to portray God. They were used to pray for peace, safety, and a good harvest. |
| Okina kei | Mask name | Usage of Noh Play |
 |
Okina(hakushikijyo) |
Okina |
 |
Okina(Nikushikijyo) | Okina |
 |
Kokushikijyo (Sanbanso) |
Okina |
 |
Chichinojyo | Jyunigastuourai,Chichinojyo/Enmeikajya |
 |
Ko-chichinojyo | Ditto |
 |
Enmeikajya | Chichinojyo/Enmeikajya,Sagi |
 |
Ko-okina |
Inoue Corporation