Dan-no-ura
壇乃浦
This play is based on an actual historic sea battle that occurred at Dan-no-Ura in 1185. The battle was part of the Genpei War, a national civil war between the Taira and Minamoto clans from 1180 to 1185.
It opens on a battle between two generals of the Taira clan, Taira-no-Tomomori and Taira-no-Noritsune, and Minamoto-no-Yoshitsune of the Minamoto clan. Tomomori and Noritsune are killed in battle, which spells the end of their clan. Before Tomomori dies, he vows that the Taira clan will have their revenge, becoming a vengeful spirit that lingers in the mortal realm.
Some time passes and despite his victory over the Taira clan, Yoshitsune has been forced to flee the capital with his wife Shizuka Gozen and famed warrior monk Benkei. The reason is his brother, Minamoto-no-Yoritomo, who, suspicious of Yoshitsune's intentions, has sent soldiers to kill him. When the trio reaches Daibutsu-no-Ura, they encounter the vengeful spirit of Taira-no-Tomomori and a great battle ensues.
The trio are victorious, but Yoshitsune decides it would be best if Shizuka Gozen fled to Yoshino while he and Benkei flee to Ōshū. The two bid a tearful goodbye and part ways, knowing it will likely be forever.