Kyoto

Jan 7, 2015 - 1 min read

Kabuki at Minamiza

Maiko visit to beautiful old Kyoto theater on rainy day

By Cathy Cawood

Community writer

Huge paper lanterns hang outside the theater

The actors' names are painted in big bold calligraphy on wooden strips

Many Japanese say they can't understand the Kabuki plays, but for a fee you can hire earphones that explain the plays to you while you are watching. However I don't think they are available in English.

Paintings of scenes from the various plays being performed

I was lucky enough to see three maiko on their way to the performance

Theater goers under their umbrellas

Chatting and bowing before entering the theater

Inside the theater

The cheapest seats are at the top and back of the theater, but the view is pretty good.

Waiting for the performance to begin

When I lived in Kyoto, I sometimes attended the special Kao-mise kabuki performance at the end of the year, which showcases the best Kabuki talent from around Japan. Kyoto's Minamiza Theater is a lovely old building on Shijo Street near the Kamogawa, and when it hosts Kabuki the facade is decorated with the actors' names written in distinctive lettering, along with paintings of scenes from the plays being performed. The show is long - several hours of amazing sets and gorgeous costumes, with several different plays, and includes a 30 minute break for people to eat obento lunch or dinner.

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Cathy Cawood

By Cathy Cawood

Community writer

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Elena Lisina

Elena Lisina 5 years ago

I passed it by few times, but the idea to watch a play didn't come to my head - I wonder why?! : )

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Mandy Bartok

Mandy Bartok 10 years ago

I've walked by here many times but I've never been inside. Thanks for giving us a glimpse!

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Mandy Bartok

Mandy Bartok 10 years ago

Thanks for the heads up, Cathy. Hopefully I can get a visit in when I head back to Kyoto in the spring.

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