Question and Answer

 Is there any rule for the color of tabi (split-toed socks)?

Today, not only actors such as shite (the leading actor) but also group reciters and musicians wear white tabi (split-toed socks) when they perform Noh dramas. Although no record shows the exact time when it started, these people on stage wore colored tabi before the Edo era (1596-1868).

Probably influenced by the ancient practice, kyogen actors wear colored tabi even today.

Also, actors wear white tabi even for daily practice though they do not wear formal costume. As the Noh stage is a sacred area, no one is allowed to step on it barefoot or when wearing regular socks.

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• Question 1Is there any rule for the color of tabi (split-toed socks)?