The birthplace of Kabuki

Minamiza theater in Kyoto

Susan Tumanon Apr 28, 2013 - 1 min read

The interior of Minamiza Kabuki theater is simply stunning.

View of Minamiza Kabuki theater from the Kamo River.

Stage props used during Kabuki performances

Stage props used for sound effects from left to right - creaking door, wind and calling a frog.

The fan with beads is a stage prop used to produce "rain" sound while the box on the right is used to produce "wave" sounds.

Inside the box are beans. Who knew they can be used to to produce wave sounds.

The start of the tour lets visitors experience walking on the runway.

I wasn't able to join the tour since it was fully booked, but I did got the chance to see what the tour looked like when I went to see the exhibit.

Also part of the tour, the visitors experience what its like to be behind the closed curtains.

One of the paintings on display during the exhibit

Even the doors are beautifully designed.

One of the famous landmarks in downtown Kyoto, the Minamiza Kabuki theater at Gion Shijo recently held a special exhibit featuring stage props and sounds effects props used during Kabuki plays. The exhibit fee was 500 yen. Also, there was a behind the scenes tour where visitors get to experience standing in front of the stage and walking along the runway. The 20 minute tour costs 1000 yen and is only explained in Japanese. Unfortunately, the tour is only until April 16th. The exhibit featuring the props will be on display again in November.

Susan Tumanon @susan.tumanon

I have always been fascinated with the Japanese culture so I pursued that fascination and came to Japan. I am finally living my dream and enjoying every moment of it. I lived in Kyoto for a year and a half and recently moved to Kanagawa. There is so much to discover in Japan. Come join me in my a...