The Best Performing Arts Venue in Kyoto, Japan

Background Illustration for Performing Arts

Kyoto is known for its traditional performances—particularly dance and Noh theater. All dialogue is in Japanese, but sometimes there are synopses available. From time to time international musicians play the intimate venues. The most convenient source for information is your hotel concierge or guest-relations manager, who may even have a few tickets on hand. For further information on Kyoto's arts scene, check the music and theater sections of the monthly magazine Kansai Scene, at bookshops for ¥300; you can also find information on the website www.kansaiscene.com. Another source is the Kyoto Visitor's Guide , which devotes a few pages to "This Month's Theater." Look at the festival listings for temple and shrine performances. It's available free from the Kyoto Tourist Information Center on the ninth floor of the Kyoto Station Building; the staff can also provide you with information.

Gion Corner Theater

Higashiyama-ku Fodor's Choice

This theater's 50-minute performances sample five traditional disciplines: gagaku (court music), kyomai (Kyoto-style dance), Bunraku (puppet theater), kyogen (comic drama), and koto (Japanese harp). The theater seats only 165 people, so it feels fairly intimate; although this is definitely a tourist trap, it's also the only place to see these performing arts for most of year. The admission price is a bargain considering the number of talented artists involved. Premium seats offer added comfort and come with a digital tablet for translations and background information. In mid-March to November, shows are held nightly at 6 and 7; in December to mid-March, they are held Tuesday to Friday at 6 and 7.