Naniwa : PhotoStory

On his way back to Kyoto from Kumano, a minister of the court meets an old man and a youngster in the old capital town of Naniwa.

The old man explains a waka poem that likens the plum blossoms in Naniwa to Emperor Nintoku.

The old man reveals that he is the spirit of Ōnin from Baekje, the author of the poem. Promising to return that night, he vanishes.

The spirit of the plum blossoms appears to prepare for the performance of court music and dance that night. He sets up a drum stand and plays a flute.

That night, Ōnin appears with the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime. She performs a graceful dance.

Ōnin also starts to dance.

At times, it is like the stately dancing of a god.

Sometimes, the dance displays a majestic side.

The Spring Warbler and other pieces are played to celebrate a reign of peace.