National Theatre of Japan

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National Theatre of Japan

Immerse yourself in the world of Japan's proud traditional performing arts.

Last update :

*National Theatre is closed for the “National Theatre Reconstruction Project - Towards a New Adventure -” from the end of October 2023. Please see the official website for the latest information.

The National Theatre of Japan aims to preserve and promote the traditional performing arts that have been handed down for many years in Japan. Construction was completed in October 1966 by the Committee for the Protection of Cultural Properties, the predecessor of the Agency for Cultural Affairs. The venue consists of a large theater where Japanese dance and traditional Japanese music are performed, mainly kabuki, and a small theater where gagaku (court music), Ryukyuan dance, and folk performing arts, mainly bunraku, are performed. The large theater has a three-dimensional structure with audience seats arranged up to the third floor and can accommodate a maximum of approximately 1,600 people. The small theater can accommodate up to 590 people.

In addition to performing traditional arts, the company actively trains Kabuki actors and musicians. One of its special features is the Kabuki appreciation classes it holds for students in order to broaden the scope of Kabuki. The company actively appeals to a generation unfamiliar with kabuki through its reasonable and well-developed explanations.

There are also a variety of stores selling original souvenirs and restaurants. The lobby's many valuable works of art are also a highlight. The exterior of the building has a subdued design inspired by the azekura making style of the Shosoin storehouse in Nara. Known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, the hotel is crowded with people in spring.

Highlights

  • It is a historic theater that contributes to the preservation and promotion of traditional Japanese culture.
  • There is a large theater mainly for Kabuki and a small theater mainly for Bunraku.
  • There are stores and restaurants inside the theater, where you can spend a relaxing time.
  • The original souvenirs are not to be missed.

Photos

  • The exterior of the theater is inspired by Nara's Shosoin

    The exterior of the theater is inspired by Nara's Shosoin

  • The Grand Theater has up to three floors of seats and can accommodate approximately 1,600 people

    The Grand Theater has up to three floors of seats and can accommodate approximately 1,600 people

  • The Grand Theater mainly screens Kabuki plays.

    The Grand Theater mainly screens Kabuki plays.

  • A variety of original souvenir products such as Azekura Manju

    A variety of original souvenir products such as Azekura Manju

  • In spring, the theater is filled with a gorgeous atmosphere as a cherry blossom viewing spot.

    In spring, the theater is filled with a gorgeous atmosphere as a cherry blossom viewing spot.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?

A

It is possible. We will check your ticket upon re-entry.

Q

Is free WiFi available in the facility?

A

Yes, it is.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Yes.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
国立劇場
Postal Code
102-8656
Address
4-1 Hayabusacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Telephone
03-3265-7411
Closed
Varies depending on the performance
Business Hours
Varies depending on the performance
Admission
Varies depending on the performance
Access
About a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Hanzomon-mae Station Exits 1 and 6
Credit Cards
Accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)