02: Burning fields to cultivate Karamushi

Mr. Konami Norio, the holder of Important Intangible Cultural Properties, training the successor. Keppatu is a traditional hairdo technique for Okinawan traditional performances designated as Important Intangible Cultural Properties, such as Kumiodori (ICPa15, 16) or Ryukyu Buyo. Profound knowledge on each stage program and appropriate technique is needed, since each hairstyle represents the age and status of the role, historical backgrounds, or the actors/actress themselves. In this way, Keppatu technique is indispensable for the preservation of Important Intangible Cultural Properties.

02: Cormorant that has just been hooked and caught

03: Stitching suge material onto the hat

02: Making rib of suge hat with bamboo stick

06: Braiding Itaya Minnow with itaya sticks and fuji

05: Making thin sticks from itaya tree

04: Fuji tree bark (right) and inner part of the tree (left)

03: Collecting itaya for making Itaya Minnow

02: Collecting nemagaridake for making Itaya Minnow

04: Covering the burnt field with rice straw