It took 23 years of living in Japan before Yusuke Nishimura stumbled upon the nation's performing folk arts, an experience akin to discovering a secretive society. It was at a commemorative event at Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo that he first encountered Shishi-mai, Tora-mai, Taue-odori, Kagura and other performing folk arts from around the country.

Nishimura embarked on a three-year project to travel around Japan and photograph all 49 groups that are in existence, each carrying on its own historic legacy in the form of art.

Check out more exciting photos of Nishimura's work at Spoon & Tamago below!