File:THE ENTRANCE OF A STORY-TELLERS’ HALL. (1910) - illustration - page 283.png

English: Illustration from page 283 of THE ENTRANCE OF A STORY-TELLERS’ HALL..
Caption: "THE ENTRANCE OF A STORY-TELLERS’ HALL. Quote: Neither of these amusements [theatergoing or watching sumo wrestling] can serve to while away a few hours of idleness or relaxation; to those who wish to spend an evening pleasantly and at little expense, the story-tellers’ hall is always open. It stands conspicuously in a street; for over a wide entrance, the walls of which are studded with numerous pegs for suspending the clogs and sandals of its patrons, hangs a large square lantern announcing on its face the names of the principal performers, while the name of the hall is inscribed at a side-end. The hall itself is a great matted room with a platform at the furthest end. The spectators squat promiscuously on the mats and watch the performances or listen to the tales of the story-teller on the platform which is about four feet high and can be seen from all parts of the room. The hall opens at six or half-past; but it only begins to fill an hour later and closes at about ten o’clock."