Kabuki: A Living Legacy of Japanese Artistry
Spanning over 400 years from the Edo period to today, kabuki stands as Japan’s uniquely evolved form of integrated performing arts.
This exhibition invites you to explore the rich world of kabuki through one of its three great masterpieces, Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees).
Experience the allure of kabuki firsthand—through its elaborate stage sets, costumes, props, and the captivating performances of kabuki actors—presented in an interactive format.
See it, touch it, and transform! Immerse yourself in an authentic encounter with the world of kabuki.
Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura (Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees) stands alongside Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami （Sugawara and the Secrets of Calligraphy） and Kanadehon Chūshingura（The Treasury of Loyal Retainers） as one of kabuki’s three great masterpieces.This five-act narrative kabuki, accompanied by traditional chanting, centers on Minamoto no Yoshitsune, whose fate takes a dramatic turn after the Genpei War.
Interwoven with his tale are the stories of Taira no Tomomori, Igami no Gonta, and Satō Tadanobu (in his magical guise as the fox Tadanobu)—each unfolding in parallel, each steeped in pathos and intrigue. Blending historical fact with bold fiction, this sweeping narrative has captivated audiences for over 270 years since its premiere, remaining a cornerstone of kabuki repertoire.
Step into the world of Yoshinoyama(Mt.Yoshino), where cherry blossoms burst into bloom across the recreated stage. Crafted by master set designers, this lifelike installation invites you to explore the artistry up close.
Hold actual props used in past performances, pose as a kabuki actor, and capture the moment in photos or video!
For the first time, we unveil three kabuki actor prints depicting the original May 1748 performance at Edo’s Nakamura-za.
For the preservation of the works, the three newly unveiled actor portraits will be rotated during the exhibition period.
“Kokingo / Matsushima Yaōzō I” by Torii Kiyomasu II On View
October 1 (Wed) – October 22 (Wed) & November 10 (Mon) – November 16 (Sun)
“Tadanobu / Sawamura Chōjurō III; Yoshitsune / Utagawa Shirogorō; Shizuka Gozen / Sawamura Kodenji II” by Torii Kiyomasu II On View:
October 1 (Wed) – October 13 (Mon, public holiday) & October 23 (Thu) – October 31 (Fri) & November 10 (Mon) – November 16 (Sun)
“Noto-no-kami Noritsune as Yokawa Kakuhan / Ichikawa Ebizō II; Tadanobu as Genkurō the Fox / Sawamura Chōjūrō III” by Torii Kiyonobu II On View:
October 1 (Wed) – October 13 (Mon, public holiday)& November 1 (Sat) – November 16 (Sun)
Please note:
All three original works will be on display from October 1 (Wed) – October 13 (Mon) and again from November 10 (Mon) – November 16 (Sun).
Reproductions will be available for viewing when the original works are not on display.
Special Ticket with Two Postcards Now Available!
A special online ticket, which includes two original large-format postcards featuring designs from scenes of Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura, is now on sale!
These postcards feature the "Torii-mae" scene, which depicts the Fushimi Inari shrine with early spring plum blossoms, and the "Yoshinoyama" scene, with its cherry blossoms in full bloom. Both designs were originally created for Kabukiza performances. With these postcards, you can enjoy the artistry of the craftsmen and the beauty of classic Japanese scenery anytime.
These postcards are available in limited quantities, so don't miss this valuable opportunity!
Same-Day Ticket at the Counter
¥1,000
You're welcome to take photos and videos throughout the exhibition! Post about your experience on X, Instagram, TikTok, or other social media with the hashtag #thisiskabuki to get a free original kumadori (Kabuki makeup) sticker.
This luxurious, iridescent sticker is sure to turn heads! It's perfect for your phone or anywhere you want to add a touch of style.
Please note:
Stickers are in limited supply and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Distribution will end when supplies run out.
When taking photos and videos, please be considerate of other visitors and avoid including them in your shots.
To receive a sticker, you must show your confirmed post to a staff member on site. We are unable to mail stickers at a later date.
Dates
October 1 (Wed) – November 16 (Sun), 2025
Hours
11:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry: 6:30 PM)
Duration
Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (may vary depending on crowd levels)
Venue
Kabukiza Tower, 5th Floor – Kabukiza Gallery & Kabukiza Hall
Please use the entrance from Showa-dori Avenue or the underground Kobikicho Square.
4-12-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Entrance from Showa-dori side or via the underground passage from Higashi-Ginza Station
Access
From Higashiginza Station（Subway）
From the front of Kabukiza Theatre
Photography and Media Coverage: The event may be recorded and photographed for promotional purposes, including advertising, media reports, and other publications.
Baggage: Please store any large bags or luggage in a nearby coin locker, as we are unable to hold them for you.
Staff Instructions: Please follow all instructions from our staff. Visitors who cause a disruption to the event may be asked to leave.
Prohibited Behavior: Vandalism of exhibits and any behavior that disturbs other visitors are strictly prohibited.
Handling Exhibits: Please handle the exhibits with care. You may be held liable for any damages or loss, even if unintentional.
Photography and Videography: Photography and videography are permitted, but please refrain from using a flash. When taking photos or videos, please be considerate of others and avoid capturing other visitors without their permission.
Disputes: We are not responsible for any disputes or issues between visitors.
Food and Drinks: Eating and drinking are not permitted in the venue.
Tickets:
Tickets cannot be canceled, exchanged, or refunded after purchase.
Tickets will not be reissued under any circumstances. If you lose your ticket, you will need to purchase a new one.
Re-entry is not permitted.
The transfer or resale of tickets is strictly prohibited. Admission will be denied to anyone with a resold ticket, and the organizer will not be held responsible.
Tickets are only valid during the event period.
Unless the event is canceled, tickets will not be reissued or refunded.
Prohibited Items: Please do not bring dangerous items, items with strong odors, fresh flowers, or any other items that our staff deems disruptive.
Commercial Use: Commercial photography or media coverage is not allowed without prior approval.
Event Cancellation: The event may be canceled or postponed due to severe weather, natural disasters, or other unavoidable circumstances. In the event of a cancellation, we will not compensate for any travel, accommodation, or other related expenses.
Responsibility: We are not responsible for any accidents, injuries, theft, or loss that may occur on the premises.
