Set in Japan in the mid-8th century, when Buddhism was introduced from China, this represents the crowning achievement of Kawamoto’s creative practice. Embellished with supernatural elements, it is the story of Iratsume, a devout noblewoman who believes she has received a vision of Buddha himself. Journeying to a distant temple in search of the spectre, she encounters the ghost of Prince Otsu, who mistakes Iratsume for a woman he longs for. He cannot rest while her face haunts his sleep, and a battle of wills ensues