Traditional Performing Arts

The Essence of Japanese Stage Arts

Noh, Kabuki, Bunraku. Japan's traditional performing arts with centuries of history are comprehensive art forms integrating theater, music, and dance. Japanese aesthetics condensed into stylized beauty, profound meanings embedded in refined movements. Rather than superficial viewing, we touch the essence of stage arts while understanding historical backgrounds and expressive techniques.

These traditional performing arts can be invited to ryotei restaurants where you enjoy meals or incorporated into tours as private performances. Through special programs unavailable in public performances—backstage tours, dialogue with performers and artisans, practice viewings—we understand the profundity of Japanese traditional performing arts and their succession to the present.

Noh / 能

The Tranquil World of Noh

Noh, one of the world's oldest stage arts. Movements pared down to the extreme, changing expressions of Noh masks, and the mystical beauty woven by utai chanting and hayashi music. View special performances at Noh theaters in Tokyo and Kyoto. Through performance explanations, viewing of Noh masks and costumes, and dialogue with Noh performers, understand the spirituality of this 600-year-old art.

Kabuki / 歌舞伎

The Splendor of Kabuki

Gorgeous costumes, kumadori makeup, actors striking dramatic mie poses. Kabuki, a popular entertainment continuing from the Edo period, is comprehensive entertainment fusing drama, dance, and music. View performances at Kabukiza, backstage tours, and kumadori makeup experiences. Experience the charm of Kabuki where tradition and innovation coexist.

Bunraku / 文楽

Bunraku - Puppet Theater

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Bunraku. Exquisite puppets operated by three people, emotionally rich gidayu chanting, and the resonance of shamisen. Delicate movements as if the puppets are alive, expressive power surpassing human emotion. Through viewing at Osaka's National Bunraku Theatre, explanations of puppet structure and operation techniques, and dialogue with puppeteers, understand the world of Japan's unique puppet theater.

Traditional Dance / 伝統舞踊

Japanese Dance & Maiko Performance

View Japanese dance performed by maiko in Kyoto's Gion. Graceful movements using fans and hand towels, expressing seasons and scenes through the movements of kimono sleeves and hems. Experience up close the refined arts nurtured within ozashiki culture. Japanese dance lessons are also available. Learn basic movements and how to use fans.

Taiko / 和太鼓

The Power of Taiko Drums

The resonance of wadaiko drums beaten with the whole body. Drums used in festivals and Shinto rituals have evolved into stage arts in modern times. View professional taiko ensemble performances, tour drum workshops, and experience taiko workshops. Sound vibrations resonating through the body, unity of rhythm and form. Feel the power of Japanese musical culture with your whole body.

Program Content

Special performances of Noh, Kabuki, and Bunraku
Pre- and post-performance commentary by specialists
Backstage tours
Dialogue with performers and artisans
Practice viewing of traditional performing arts
Exhibition viewing of Noh masks, costumes, puppets, etc.
Experience workshops in Japanese dance and taiko drums
Earphone guides and simultaneous interpretation arrangements

Recommended Duration and Destinations

Duration: Approximately 2 hours (varies depending on performance type and content)

Main Destinations:

Tokyo (National Noh Theatre, Kabukiza Theatre)
Kyoto (Kongo Noh Theatre, Gion)
Osaka (National Bunraku Theatre)
Kanazawa (Noh Museum)

Special Programs: We can arrange geiko or maiko to accompany meals at ryotei restaurants, or incorporate private performances into tours. Itineraries are designed according to each theater's performance schedule.