ttomuuden

Ttoumuuden is a traditional form of Japanese storytelling, originating from the ancient myths and legends of the Japanese people. The term "ttoumuuden" is derived from the Japanese words "ttoumu" meaning "throat" or "neck", and "eden" meaning "story" or "tale".

Early forms of ttoumuuden date back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), where it was used as a form of entertainment during Shinto rituals and ceremonies. The stories were told orally, often recited by a single storyteller, who would use hand gestures and vocal inflections to convey the emotions and actions of the characters. The tales typically revolved around the struggles and triumphs of gods, goddesses, and other supernatural beings.

During the Edo period (1603-1867 CE), ttoumuuden became more widespread, and the stories became more complex, incorporating themes from Buddhist and Shinto mythology. The tales were often told in a continuous narrative style, with the storyteller using their voice, body, and facial expressions to bring the characters to life.

Ttoumuuden continued to evolve throughout Japanese history, influencing other forms of storytelling such as Noh theatre and Bunraku puppetry. While the traditional form of ttoumuuden is still performed in modern Japan, it is largely seen as a nostalgic relic of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Due to its historical significance and cultural importance, ttoumuuden has been recognized as a form of intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. However, the traditional art form remains largely unknown outside of Japan, and efforts are being made to preserve and promote its significance worldwide.