07 Japanese Traditional Theatre
Comparing the diverse but unique format of Japanese theaters with theaters in other parts of the world
Japan is a country where theater culture prospered
Songs and dances are closely related to people’s lives and universally exist beyond time, place, and ethnic groups. Performance arts can be found in any part of the world. However, regions where the venue for performing arts is given a unique shape as a social and functional space, in other words, a “theater,” are much less common in world history. Japan is one of such exceptional regions. Kabuki theater in particular is a commercial theater for commoners, examples of which are found not so often throughout the world. It also holds a prominent position in history, contributing to establishing the indoor space for theatrical functions, just like the Italian theater in Europe (see Panel 03).
Text by SHIMIZU Hiroyuki
01 Shitennoji Ishibutai （ the stone stage ）
02 Hongwanji North Noh stage
03-1 Nakamura-za Theatre
03-2 Ichimura-za Theatre
04-1 Kobiki-cho Morita-za
04-2 Saruwaka-cho Morita-za
04-3 Shintomi-cho Shintomi-za
05 Kabuki-za
06 Takemoto-za
07 Shitaya Shrine
08-A Hakuun-za
08-B Kashimo Meijiza
08-C Hōō-za
08-D Azuma-za
08-E Tokiwa-za
08-F Murakuni-za
08-G Uchiko-za
08-H Kaho-Theater
08-I Yachiyo-za
08-J Inukai Rural Community Theatre
08-K Imayama Rural Community Theatre
08-L Haigyu Rural Community Theatre
08-M Kawamata Rural Community Theatre
08-N Sakashu Rural Community Theatre
08-O Hoichi Rural Community Theatre
08-P Daizen Shrine Noh Stage
08-Q The Honma Family’s Noh Stage
