It began to be performed when Mimashi of Kudara introduced it to Japan in the government time of Empress Suiko (554-628).

It descended from Tang, Rinyu, India, and Koryo, and can be now performed in the ceremony of the Imperial Court or Buddhist temples.

"Ryo-oh" is the perfromance with typical unclockwise dance.

And it is also called "Raryo-oh" or " Ranryo-oh.

" The dancer wears a valiant mask of gold brocade, "menbo (=cap with mask)," "ketteki no ho," "ryoto," " kintai (=gold belt), "sashinuki (=divided skirt)," and "shikai" (=shoes). [ ]

He also has "bachi (=stick for a drum)" in his hand.