All of the costumes date back to the tenth century, when advanced dyeing and weaving techniques came about. Many of the robes that the dancers wear are very old and very valuable. Some of the robes are three hundred years old. The dancers all wear white slippers made out of silk and court hats made of lacquered silk. The costumes are all actual court costumes from the ancient imperial court.
Masks are important elements of some dances, and determine the character of the dance.
Masks are only used in the hashiri-mai dances. All of the costumes are very elaborate and beautiful and greatly influence the character of the bagaku dances. The traditional music and dance of the Imperial Court of Japan have enjoyed a long history in Japanese culture. Since World War II, interest in Gagaku has diminished. Many of the musicians were drafted to fight and did not return afterward.