Meijiza

Interesting facts

1. 1

   Originally founded as the Kishiza theater in 1873 in the Hisamatsu-cho area.

2. 2

   The theater was destroyed by fire during the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and again during the 1945 air raids, requiring multiple rebuilds.

3. 3

   Meijiza holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating commercial theater in Tokyo.

4. 4

   The venue features an 'ohana-michi' (flower path) which allows actors to walk through the audience, a signature feature of Kabuki staging.

5. 5

   The interior includes a rooftop area and diverse dining options specifically designed for long-duration theater programs.

6. 6

   It is historically significant for its role in promoting 'Shin-Kabuki,' a movement to modernize traditional Kabuki scripts.

Overview

Meijiza is Tokyo's oldest operating theater, with a history dating back to its establishment in 1873. It specializes in traditional Japanese performing arts, including Kabuki, and modern theatrical productions. The current structure is a multi-story building that houses not only the main stage but also retail shops and dining facilities catering to theatergoers. It remains a key cultural institution in the Nihonbashi district, blending Edo-period performance traditions with contemporary stage technology. The venue frequently hosts star-studded dramas, musical revues, and historical plays known as jidaigeki.

Insider tips

• Book a 'Makunouchi' bento box in advance to eat during the long intermissions, which is a local cultural tradition.

• Visit the gift shops on the lower floors for specialized traditional crafts and theater-exclusive merchandise.

• Check the official program schedule in advance as performances are typically organized into month-long runs.