I love Kabuki

I love Kabuki, a traditional form of Japanese theater.

I’m trying to invite my friend from abroad to see Kabuki. Even if our schedules don’t work out, I would at least like to tell them what is so wonderful about it.

In February, there will be a matinee and an evening performance at Kabuki-za in Higashi-Ginza, Tokyo.

You can check the program in English here:

https://www.kabukiweb.net/theatres/kabukiza/.

I recommend the evening performance because you can enjoy a typical, spectacular Kabuki program.

However, the matinee is also wonderful, as Nizaemon and Ganjiro will be appearing on stage.

Nizaemon is a Living National Treasure of Japan and my favorite Kabuki actor. Although he is 81 years old, he looks much younger on stage and can even convincingly play young roles. He is truly an incredible actor.

Ganjiro stars in the film “Kokuho,” the highest-grossing Japanese film, which features Kabuki. As a Kabuki actor, he served as an advisor for the film and also played an important role in it. Here is the trailer of “Kokuho”: KOKUHO | Trailer 2 — In theatres Feburary 2026.

Kabuki is a truly spectacular form of theater. When you come to Japan, please be sure to see it!

A Kabuki actor. Image courtesy of the National Diet Library Image Bank.