InsideJapan News Network

The manuscript of an old Japanese tale has been recovered more than 60 years after it went missing, a researcher has claimed.

Known as The Tale of Genji, it was written by Murasaki Shikibu in the Heian period of the early-11th century, reports the Japan Times.

It is believed that if the manuscript is authenticated, it come become a Japanese cultural treasure.

Previously, the manuscript had been owned by classic scholar Kiyoomi Osawa until 1907 and includes content that differs from other "Genji" manuscripts.

According to Unesco, The Tale of Genji was the product of aristocratic culture in ancient Japan and the story itself involved the life and loves of a prince and his family.

The story is the subject of a live theatrical performance which is due to be staged at the Umeda Arts Theatre in Osaka from September 23rd. Ticket prices range from 6,000 - 12,000 yen.