Mansai Nomura: Japanese Actor and Kyogen Master

Mansai Nomura (Japanese: 野村萬斎) is a prominent Japanese actor and a master of Kyogen traditional comedic theater. Born on April 5, 1966, in Tokyo, Japan, he has built a distinguished career spanning both traditional Japanese performing arts and contemporary film and television.

Portrait of Mansai Nomura — Mansai Nomura

Selected Filmography

Mansai Nomura has appeared in numerous notable cinematic productions, showcasing his range across historical dramas and modern features. Some of his notable film appearances include:

Moshimo Tokugawa Ieyasu ga Sori Daijin ni Nattara (2024) - as Ieyasu Tokugawa
Revolver Lily (2023) - as Takita
Whistleblower (2019) - as Tamio Yasumi
Flower and Sword (2017) - as Senko Ikenobo
Scanner (2016) - as Kazuhiko Sengoku
The Wind Rises (2013) - as Caproni (voice)
The Floating Castle (2012) - as Nagachika Narita
The Yin-Yang Master 2 (2003)
The Yin Yang Master (2001)

Television Roles

In addition to his film work, Nomura has taken on prominent roles in Japanese television drama series and television movies:

Stove League (2026) - as Sho Negishi
Antihero (2024) - as Taisuke Datehara
Dou Suru Ieyasu (2023) - as Yoshimoto Imagawa
Doctor-X Season 7 (2021) - as Ryutaro Hachisuka
Murder on the Orient Express (2015) - as Takeru Suguro
Kurama Tengu (2008)
Agri (1997)

Awards and Recognition

His performance in the 2001 film The Yin Yang Master earned him critical acclaim, including the "Best Actor" award at the 44th Blue Ribbon Awards in 2002 and the "Rookie of the Year" prize at the 25th Japan Academy Prize ceremony.