Minamiza Theatre

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Minamiza Theatre

A traditional theater with more than 400 years of history.

4.07 2

Last update :
Head Editor : Shochiku Co., Ltd.

A theater that features Kabuki which originated in Kyoto. Kabuki is said to have originated from the “Kabuki Odori” dance, invented by a woman named Izumo no Okuni. As the dance started to popularize during the early Edo period, around this time the Minami-za also opened. It is Japan’s oldest theater with more than 400 years of history located in the same place.

Out of the many genres of entertainment hosted in the theater, the Kabuki performance “Kichirei Kaomise Performance” held every December is a Kyoto favorite in the winter. During the Edo period, the theater and actors had a one-year contract. It was considered most important to preview the year's ensemble via “Kaomise”, to this day plenty of visitors flock to see the actors.

The historical building is made with traditional techniques with a Momoyama relief, and was built in 1929. In 1996, it was designated a national registered tangible cultural asset. It later was designated a historic landmark by Kyoto city. In 2018, the entire building was refurbished and re-opened while still retaining its main features. It is loved by Kyoto as a landmark that preserves its history and legacy.

Highlights

  • A traditional theater with historical roots to the Edo period.
  • Hosting traditional arts and performances such as Kabuki.
  • A national registered tangible cultural asset, and historic landmark by Kyoto city.

Photos

  • Kyoto’s landmark standing in the bright and busy Gion. *Photo from Kichirei Kaomise Performance in 2021.

    Kyoto’s landmark standing in the bright and busy Gion. *Photo from Kichirei Kaomise Performance in 2021.

  • A 3 story theater with 1082 seats. ⒸShochiku.

    A 3 story theater with 1082 seats. ⒸShochiku.

  • Art Deco style interior design is also noteworthy. ⒸShochiku.

    Art Deco style interior design is also noteworthy. ⒸShochiku.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have foreign language support? (If it is available, what language is available?)

A

Due to the pandemic, some shows are Japanese only. Some staff members speak English, so we can answer simple questions in English.

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?

A

If you have ticket stubs, yes.

Q

Is free WiFi available in the facility?

A

Not available.

Q

Is eating or drinking allowed? Can I bring my own food or drinks?

A

Yes, during break in your seats.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Yes

Q

Are there any discounted tickets available?

A

Base price tickets available in the Minami-za Ticket Counter.

Reviews

2
  • 夏婉欣

    南座~桃山風格設計的近代建築~想來看看藝伎可以來這哦

  • 劉淑娟

    南座~屋頂上的外觀很雄偉華麗~

Details

Name in Japanese
南座
Postal Code
605-0075
Address
East side, Shijō-ōhashi-bridge, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
Telephone
075-561-1155
Directions
1) Adjacent to Kyoto Main Line Gion-Shijo station.
2) 3 min walk from Hankyu Kyoto Line Kyoto Kawara-cho Station.
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)