Detail: The yūgen translates as deep beauty, mysterious beauty, or subtle charm.

It is a concept of Japanese aesthetics applied to the arts, literature and poetry.

It has been theorized by poets like Fujiwara no Shunzei and Fujiwara no Teika as well as the playwright Zeami.

The yūgen refers to the understanding and nostalgic evocation of the mysterious beauty of the world. It is not about appealing to the imaginary or describing concrete reality, but seeing the world as endowed with an implicit depth that artists can subtly express.

The yūgen therefore often takes the form of mystery, depth, elegance and nostalgia associated with the ancient aristocratic culture.