Pronunciation: [ˌe͡ɪəd͡ʒɪjˈɑːmə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "aogiyama" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). In IPA, "a" is pronounced as /a/, "o" as /o/, "g" as /ɡ/, "i" as /i/, "y" as /j/, and "m" as /m/. Therefore, the phonetic transcription of "aogiyama" is /aɔɡijama/. This word is Japanese and refers to a green mountain range. It is composed of "ao" (meaning green), "gi" (meaning tree), and "yama" (meaning mountain or hill).
Aogiyama is a Japanese term that refers to a traditional form of theater, specifically a type of kabuki dance-drama. The term comprises two words: "aogi," which translates to "looking up," and "yama," which means "mountain." Combined, Aogiyama represents the concept of "looking up at the mountain."
In the realm of kabuki, Aogiyama refers to a dance pattern performed by actors portraying mountain ascetics. These ascetics were known as "yamabushi" and were associated with nature and spirituality. The Aogiyama dance mainly consists of vigorous movements and dynamic poses, symbolizing the yamabushi's strength, resilience, and connection with the mountains.
The performance usually takes place in Kabuki theaters, where the stage is designed to resemble a mountain landscape replete with rocks and trees. The actor-dancers exhibit athletic prowess and demonstrate their skills through leaps, spins, and martial arts-inspired movements. With elaborate costumes, makeup, and evocative music, the Aogiyama dance captivates the audience, transporting them to the world of the yamabushi and their mystical connection with nature.
Aogiyama has become synonymous with the power and grandeur of kabuki theater. It is admired for its visually striking choreography, expressive gestures, and the deep metaphorical significance it holds within Japanese culture.
The word "aogiyama" is a Japanese term that refers to a sumo wrestler who is ranked highest among the maegashira, or the wrestlers below the titled ranks of "yokozuna", "ōzeki", and "sekiwake".
The etymology of the word is as follows:
- "Ao" (青) translates to "blue" in English.
- "Gi" (儀) means "ceremony" or "rite".
- "Yama" (山) indicates "mountain".
The term "aogiyama" literally translates to "blue-honored mountain". The word is derived from the blue-colored ceremonial apron, called "aoi-no-mi" or "aoi-no-gi", worn by the highest-ranked maegashira during ring-entering ceremonies.
