Zeami Motokiyo (c.1363–c.1443), also called Kanze Motokiyo, was a Japanese actor and playwright. In addition to writing brilliant plays and his major theoretical work, Fūshikaden, Zeami wrote practical instructions for actors and established the Noh theatre as a serious art form. His books are not only instructions but also aesthetics and spiritual culture of Japan.

His father, Kan'ami, was also an actor and educated Zeami. They are the most important persons for Noh establishment.

When Kanami's company performed for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the Shogun of Japan, he implored Zeami to have a court education for his arts. After Zeami succeeded his father, he continued to perform and adapt his style into what is today Noh. A mixture of pantomime and vocal acrobatics, this style has fascinated the Japanese for hundreds of years.