Minamiza Kabuki Theatre in Kyoto

Facts & Figures

The Minamiza Theatre in Kyoto is for many people the birthplace of Kabuki in Japan. Kabuki is a form of classical Japanese drama. There is no better place in the country to experience this colorful stage show. It is possible to buy tickets only for certain acts. If you feel strong enough you can enjoy the show for many hours. The theatre offers 1086 seats.

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• Minamiza Kabuki Theatre:
• Months of performances - May, June, September
• Ticket Price Range - 3000 yen to 27 000 yen

My tips for local activities

Explore the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide. The tour takes approximately 3,5hrs. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Between 1615 till 1623 (beginning of the Edo period) officials of the city Kyoto gave the permission to built seven Kabuki theaters. The Minamiza Kabuki Theatre was one of them. None of the other six are still exisiting. The current building dates back to 1929. The architect was inspired by the style of the Momoyama period (1573 - 1615). The whole building was modernized in 1991. In 1996 it was registered by the government as a Japanese Tangible Cultural Property.

Sightseeing spots

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Architecture style of the building - Enjoy the beautiful Momoyama period inspired design (gabled roof etc.) of the Minamiza Kabuki Theatre.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamo Shrines. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

Arashiyama Mifune Matsuri (third Sunday of May)
The first part is held at the Kuramazaki Shrine. Later a procession is leading to the Oi River, where more ceremonies and traditional dances (Funa Asobi) are held. The Arashiyama Mifune Matsuri started in 1914.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.