Minamiza Kabuki Theater, Kyoto
Tucked away in the southeast end of Shijo-dori street, just behind a popular noodle shop, lies the grand Minamiza theater. While it hosts a variety of theatrical performances, including the newest forms of live entertainment, it's kabuki that steals the spotlight. This colorful dramatic genre of storytelling, where male actors tackle both male and female roles, has been Kyoto's pride since the early 17th century.
Once, there were in total seven kabuki theaters in the city. Now, only Minamiza remains, a survivor of time's relentless march. Though its roots trace back to the early Edo Period (1596-1615), the current building with an ornate facade and dramatically gabled roof dates back only to 1929. Back in the 1600s, kabuki dances drew throngs, transforming the dry bed of the Kamo River into a lively "theater town". 400 years on, in 1996, the Minamiza earned the title of Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and shortly after was also registered as a Structure of Historical Design in Kyoto. In 2018, the structure underwent extensive renovation.
Tip:
To grasp the performed story in English, make sure to rent audio headsets ($7 each) and brace yourself for a three-hour-plus sit-down. During breaks, feel free to munch on your snacks. If you fancy souvenirs (like actor postcards), grab them before the show or during intermissions—concession stands close after the performance. Kabuki's a hot ticket, so book early and expect to shell out $30 to $200, depending on your seat. Also, keep in mind that while the Japanese adore dressing up for kabuki in kimono, they won't bat an eye if you don't; just spare them the facepalm moment and ditch the shorts.
Once, there were in total seven kabuki theaters in the city. Now, only Minamiza remains, a survivor of time's relentless march. Though its roots trace back to the early Edo Period (1596-1615), the current building with an ornate facade and dramatically gabled roof dates back only to 1929. Back in the 1600s, kabuki dances drew throngs, transforming the dry bed of the Kamo River into a lively "theater town". 400 years on, in 1996, the Minamiza earned the title of Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and shortly after was also registered as a Structure of Historical Design in Kyoto. In 2018, the structure underwent extensive renovation.
Tip:
To grasp the performed story in English, make sure to rent audio headsets ($7 each) and brace yourself for a three-hour-plus sit-down. During breaks, feel free to munch on your snacks. If you fancy souvenirs (like actor postcards), grab them before the show or during intermissions—concession stands close after the performance. Kabuki's a hot ticket, so book early and expect to shell out $30 to $200, depending on your seat. Also, keep in mind that while the Japanese adore dressing up for kabuki in kimono, they won't bat an eye if you don't; just spare them the facepalm moment and ditch the shorts.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kyoto. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Minamiza Kabuki Theater on Map
Sight Name: Minamiza Kabuki Theater
Sight Location: Kyoto, Japan (See walking tours in Kyoto)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Kyoto, Japan (See walking tours in Kyoto)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Kyoto, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Kyoto
Creating your own self-guided walk in Kyoto is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Imperial Kyoto Walking Tour
The former capital of Japan, Kyoto is the city of tradition. During its heyday, Imperial Kyoto was the cultural and political heart of the country. At the heart of its historical landscape, there are several iconic landmarks, each bearing witness to the city's imperial past.
Nijo Castle, an architectural marvel renowned for its elegant design and elaborate gardens, boasts impeccably... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Nijo Castle, an architectural marvel renowned for its elegant design and elaborate gardens, boasts impeccably... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Higashiyama Walking Tour
Kyoto is a city catering to tourists, especially those who love history, religion, and, of course, Japanese culture. Many of Kyoto's attractions are found in the eastern part of the city, which itself is split into wards. One of them is the Higashiyama Ward, home to several famous temples, where the look and the feel of feudal-era Japan are still preserved.
One of Higashiyama's most... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
One of Higashiyama's most... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Walk on Philosopher's Path
The Philosopher's Path in Kyoto winds its way for about 2 km along the canal that carries water from Lake Biwa to the foothills. Lined with cherry trees, this picturesque walking trail was named in honor of the famed Japanese philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, who used to walk here as a part of his daily meditation in the first half of the 20th century. A popular spot for both locals and tourists,... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Kyoto Shopping and Food Tour
The cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is just as famous as a shopper’s paradise and, without a doubt, the best place in the country to buy traditional and modern Japanese goods. Souvenirs, food, bargains, and various “one-of-a-kind items” are all up for grabs here.
In addition to its shopping scene, Kyoto boasts a rich culinary heritage, from Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
In addition to its shopping scene, Kyoto boasts a rich culinary heritage, from Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Gion District Walking Tour
Famed as one of the most mesmerizing parts of Kyoto, Gion has long been associated with traditional Japanese entertainment, stunning temples, geishas, and local eateries, ideal for whiling away a day in the ancient capital of Japan. This district forms part of the Higashiyama (“Eastern Mountain”) neighborhood.
Among its notable landmarks is the Minamiza Kabuki Theater, a venue where... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Among its notable landmarks is the Minamiza Kabuki Theater, a venue where... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove Walking Tour
The Arashiyama district of Kyoto is slightly out of the way for tourists, but that means you can enjoy it more comfortably.
Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction here is the iconic Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This serene setting is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility amidst... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction here is the iconic Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This serene setting is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility amidst... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
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The old capital of Japan, the city of Kyoto has once again been the talk of the world lately, thanks to the bestselling "Memoirs of a Geisha" book and the namesake Hollywood blockbuster movie. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, Japan has so much to amaze a foreign eye with. Many of...