Minami-za Theater

The Minami-za theatre, cradle of kabuki in Kyoto

Near the Shijo bridge, the Minami-za theatre is one of the oldest kabuki theatres in Japan. Founded at the beginning of the Edo period, it perpetuates this spectacular art in a historic setting. The Kyoto audio-guided tour stops here to evoke the birth of kabuki and Kyoto's place in the history of the performing arts.

A theatre licensed from the 1610s

Founded in the 1610s, at the beginning of the Edo period, the Minami-za is among the very first theatres officially licensed by the shogunate to host kabuki. It is considered the first kabuki theatre in Japan and has perpetuated for centuries this tradition born in Kyoto. Its location, near the Shijo bridge, links it directly to the origins of this art, in the district where Izumo-no-Okuni invented it.

What to see

The building, of traditional architecture, is a landmark of the Gion district, near the Shijo bridge. The theatre programmes kabuki performances and, for visitors, sometimes offers presentations explaining this art in several languages. Attending a show or discovering its behind-the-scenes is a rare experience, in the heart of the history of Japanese theatre.

Practical information

The Minami-za theatre lies near the Shijo bridge, at the entrance of the Gion district, in the centre of Kyoto, reachable on foot and by public transport. The façade can be freely admired; access to performances depends on the programme, which varies through the year. To find out about shows and visiting conditions, it is best to enquire with the theatre.

Why is the Minami-za important?

Founded in the 1610s, it is considered the first kabuki theatre in Japan, in the heart of the district where this art was born.

Can you attend a show at the Minami-za?

Yes, the theatre programmes kabuki performances and sometimes offers presentations for visitors; the programme varies by year, to be checked with the theatre.