We attend a performance at the local Kabuki theater “Kourakukan”, the oldest surviving wooden Kabuki theater in all of Japan. The show typically presents an impressive blend of dance and drama, combining traditional and modern elements of Japanese performing arts depending on the troupe.
After the performance, you’ll have the rare opportunity to join an exclusive backstage tour. Here, you’ll discover the fascinating, fully manual stage mechanisms—such as rotating and elevating platforms—that have been preserved for generations. This behind-the-scenes insight into Kabuki theater technology is a true highlight, especially for theater lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Kabuki theater is a traditional form of Japanese drama that originated over 400 years ago. It is known for its unique combination of acting, dance, and music, as well as its elaborate costumes, bold makeup, and exaggerated gestures. Performances often depict historical tales of samurai, love, betrayal, or supernatural beings—brought to life with powerful emotions and clearly defined roles.
One of the most distinctive features of Kabuki theater is that all roles, including female characters, are traditionally performed by men. These male actors, called onnagata, have developed a highly stylized art form to portray feminine movements and expressions with grace and precision.
The stage design in Kabuki theater is also unique. Many Kabuki theaters are equipped with a revolving stage and a hanamichi—a raised walkway that extends through the audience—allowing actors to make dramatic entrances and exits right through the crowd. Impressively, many of these stage mechanisms, such as rotating platforms and trap doors, are still operated manually, preserving the theater’s historical authenticity.
Kabuki theater is a truly immersive experience, blending visual spectacle, symbolic storytelling, and rich cultural tradition. Even without understanding every word, international audiences can follow the plot through the actors’ expressive performances. This makes Kabuki an unforgettable cultural encounter and a must-see for anyone interested in Japan’s performing arts.
