Misty Fujii is a Canadian who moved to Osaka, Japan, in 2019 and married her Japanese sweetheart. In 2022, they had a baby and moved to Fukui for the clean country air. She is a DJ who teaches English part-time and writes to share Japan with the world. She gets excited about collecting vintage vinyl records, food from all countries, travelling, and renovating her traditional Japanese house.
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From the ancient rituals of Noh to the neon-lit stages of modern musicals and concerts, Tokyo is a theatre lover’s paradise! The city has been a hub where traditional and contemporary drama, music, and dance intertwine for centuries.
The importance of Japanese theatre is not lost on the world and has been recognized by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)! Today, Tokyo is a global epicenter of performance art. Its theatres, a fusion of historic charm and cutting-edge technology, offer a front-row seat to the world’s most innovative and inspiring shows. Witness masked Noh actors channeling spirits, Kabuki stars dazzling with flamboyant costumes, and Bunraku puppeteers breathing life into inanimate objects. Whether you’re drawn to the intimacy of a small-scale production or the spectacle of a grand musical, the city has a stage that’s perfect for you.
So, let’s raise the curtain and explore the 10 best theatres in Tokyo.
1. Kabukiza Theatre
The heart of Kabuki lies at the legendary Kabukiza Theatre in Tokyo’s Ginza district. Founded in 1889, this grand theatre is a world of extravagant costumes, bold makeup (applied by the actors themselves!), and stages that come alive with vibrant colors, moving scenery, and surprise reveals. Kabuki here has a rich history of leaving audiences awestruck! And don’t worry if your Japanese isn’t up to par – English audio guides are available to help you navigate the intricacies of the plays. After the show, complete the kabuki experience and explore the on-site shopping center for kabuki-themed gifts and souvenirs.
Website: Kabukiza Theatre
2. Nippon Budokan
The Nippon Budokan, Tokyo’s mecca of martial arts and music, isn’t a typical arena. It’s an octagonal wonder, aptly named “Japan Martial Arts Hall,” and throws a knockout punch of history and versatility. Built for judo tournaments for the 1964 Olympics, Budokan has morphed into a popular music venue. Imagine the thrill of the Beatles igniting the crowd during their first Japanese concert here in 1966! With 14,000 seats pulsating with energy, Budokan has seen countless superstars deliver unforgettable performances and record timeless live albums. Even today, securing a show at the Budokan is a badge of honor for musicians worldwide (and seeing a show is on many fans’ bucket lists!), solidifying its place as a cultural landmark and a must-visit for any music lover in Tokyo.
Website: Nippon Budokan
3. Billboard Live Tokyo
Billboard Live Tokyo is a sophisticated venue for discerning music lovers. The chic dinner club buzzes with an adult crowd, and the stage is front and center. Unlike typical genre-focused venues, Billboard Live opens its doors to a world of music. One night, it might be rock, another a smooth jazz performance, or some soulful R&B. But what truly sets Billboard Live apart is its intimate setting. Sip a glass of wine, enjoy a delicious meal, and watch your favorite artist perform mere feet away (living the VIP dream!). The venue boasts a sleek design, with the main auditorium offering tiered seating and standing-room configurations. The piece de resistance? The stunning glass windows behind the stage allow the audience to enjoy the dazzling Tokyo cityscape behind the music.
Website: Billboard Live Tokyo
4. Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall
Admire a marvel of modern architecture at the Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. Despite what it may look like from the outside, trust me, this isn’t your typical concrete jungle skyscraper. Sure, the Tokyo Opera City Tower soars 54 floors above Shinjuku, but a world of warm white oak is inside. This stunning contrast creates a cathedral-like atmosphere, perfect for the world-class acoustics that have earned it the #6 spot on the list of best concert halls globally. Imagine the crystal-clear notes of a symphony or the rich tones of a Yo-Yo Ma performance filling the space. Not just for classical music, though, the Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall is a vibrant hub for all kinds of performing arts. From operas and plays to modern dance and cutting-edge dramas, it’s a stage for Tokyo’s most captivating performances.
Website: Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall
5. Shinbashi Enbujo
Stepping into the Shinbashi Enbujo Theatre is like stepping back in time. Opened in 1925 with a dazzling Azuma Odori geisha dance revue, it was built to celebrate traditional Japanese performing arts. It offers a beautiful three-tiered auditorium with 1,424 seats and a stage built for grand Kabuki productions. They host a variety of performances, from classic Kabuki and Shakespeare to modern musicals. They’ve even taken Kabuki to new heights with “super-Kabuki,” a genre incorporating manga and anime influences, like Once Piece and Naruto! The intimate seating allows guests to feel part of the action, while the on-site restaurant features local delicacies. And if you’re looking for more after the show, the Kabuki-za Theatre is just a short stroll away!
Website: Shinbashi Enbujo
6. Asakusa Engei Hall
Old-school Tokyo entertainment lives on at Asakusa Engei Hall. This theatre, a survivor from Asakusa’s bustling entertainment past, is a gem for fans of traditional Japanese comedy. Step back in time and experience the art of rakugo, a hilarious form of comedic storytelling performed here daily. Asakusa Engei Hall also offers a delightful smorgasbord of other traditional Japanese variety acts. From the hilarious antics of manzai comedy duos to mesmerizing lion dances, there’s something for everyone. Watch for the daily program displayed outside the theatre – you might even discover a juggling act, a daring acrobat, or a captivating musical performance. And for a fun fact, this very stage launched the career of the legendary filmmaker and actor “Beat” Takeshi Kitano, who honed his comedic skills here as part of a double act.
Website: Asakusa Engei Hall
7. Meijiza
The Meijiza Theatre is another blast from the past but with a surprisingly modern twist. Founded in 1873, it’s the oldest theatre in Tokyo, offering a haven for locals since its opening. Back then, it catered to the city’s military and middle class as a place to unwind and soak up culture. Throughout its history, Meijiza has staged a dazzling array of performances, from classic Kabuki and historical dramas to modern plays and Western works. They were famously the first theatre in Japan to present Shakespeare! Today, they embrace innovation alongside tradition. Their recent digital stage curtain, designed by the art collective TeamLab, is a stunning example. And while Kabuki and Enka singers continue to draw devoted crowds, Meijiza pushes boundaries with events like their hybrid anime and live drama show, perfect for introducing Japanese theatre to a new generation, including international visitors.
Website: Meijiza
8. Imperial Theatre
The Imperial Theatre, or Teigeki as it’s commonly called, stands as a crown jewel in Tokyo’s cultural landscape. This architectural marvel, the first Western-style theatre in Japan, stands proudly facing the Imperial Palace in the heart of Marunouchi. Beyond its productions, the Imperial Theatre has been pivotal in fostering opera, ballet, and a cosmopolitan spirit in Tokyo. Every year, the Imperial Theatre stages a captivating selection of performances. It offers something for everyone, from beloved Western musicals like Les Misérables and Miss Saigon to dazzling shows by Japanese stars. The 1,900-seat auditorium buzzes with energy, while the top floor houses a rotating art exhibition. Visiting the Imperial Theatre is a truly well-rounded cultural experience!
Website: Imperial Theatre
9. Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre
A beacon for art lovers in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre is a stunning complex that unites people with world-class performances. Opened in 1990, the theatre boasts a sleek, modern design and cutting-edge acoustics across its four halls, two galleries, and dedicated rehearsal and meeting spaces. The main attraction is the Concert Hall, a breathtaking space seating nearly 2,000 and featuring a world-class pipe organ – perfect for indulging in the rich sounds of the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra, one of Japan’s finest. However, the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre offers more than just music. Theatre goers can delve into contemporary Japanese plays and dance performances that tackle thought-provoking themes like social isolation or the lasting impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Website: Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre
10. Suzumoto Performing Arts Hall
Suzumoto Performing Arts Hall is Tokyo’s oldest entertainment hall, dating back to 1857! Despite its old age, Suzumoto Engeijo, as it’s also called, brims with a lively atmosphere with its intimate setting. Unlike some of the bigger theatre titans, Suzumoto has a cozy 150 seats that envelop everyone in the story on stage. You might witness the comedic art of rakugo storytelling, acrobatic feats, or even the delicate artistry of paper cutting. Magic, impersonations, and traditional ballads add to the diverse program. Unlike most theatres, Suzumoto lets you loosen up and enjoy the show with bento boxes, snacks, and even beer. While the language might be a hurdle if you’re not a Japanese speaker, the energy and artistry will leave you with a lasting impression.
Website: Suzumoto Performing Arts Hall
Japan Wonder Travel Tours in Tokyo
Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.
From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are traveling in, our knowledgeable and friendly guides will happily take you to the best spots!
In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help!
▶Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour
Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo, where you will have the chance to try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake along with your friendly English-speaking guide!
▶Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours)
There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.
▶Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo’s Nightlife in Izakaya
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▶Kimono Experience in Tokyo
Step into the charm of the kimono, a beloved icon of Japanese tradition, ideal for festivals and wandering quaint streets. Asakusa offers the perfect setting to don your kimono and create cherished memories with picturesque backdrops. Let Kimono Rental Wargo dress you up for a day of delightful exploration in timeless style!
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