From Noh to Kabuki, from traditional Japanese buyo to folkloric Awaodori, from the dramatic puppeteering of Bunraku and Joruri to on-stage vaudeville and rakugo, from ancient court music to popular songs, Tokyo offers a wide range of venues and chances to enjoy glimpses from the past scene living in the present. From 2026, a new festival vows from January to March to promote traditional performing arts.
Enjoying Noh in Tokyo
National Noh Theatre, Shinjukugyoen
National Theatre, Hanzomon (closed in 2025 for refection)
Yarai Nohgakudo, Kagurazaka (website in Japanese only)
Kanze Noh theatre, Ginza (relocated in 2017)
and the rest of Japan
Kyoto Kanze Noh theatre (original theatre based in Kyoto)
Tasting Kabuki in Tokyo
The Kabuki-za is ZA place to watch Kabuki all-year-round.
Watching Bunraku in Tokyo
The National Theater has regular Bunraku features, and sometimes Joruri artists are also invited to perform. Due to 2025 closure, it can take place in other theaters like Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre.
In December 2025, a beginner and foreign friendly performance will take part through most of the month, and this will for
Experimenting Japanese Buyo traditional dance
The Tomin festival features Nihon Buyou, including the Tokyo Shimbun dance competition with some free performances as well (Jan/March).
Hanagata proposes performance all year through, including experience of Japanese traditional dances for the participants. Tourists are welcome, and there is English support in general.
The Japanese Dance Association Performance is also a yearly rendez-vous with extensive insight.
Performances out of the blog
– Bunraku at the TMT
To be continued !
Tokyo stages and live arts, theatre and biodiversity 