Hakuun-za Playhouse

What it is

• A traditional playhouse located within the grounds of Hakusan Shrine in Gero City.
• Originally built as a worship hall stage with a seating area added in 1890.
• Designated by the Japanese government as an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property.
• A performance space made entirely of Japanese cypress wood that seats 400 people.

What to see

• A rare top-spinning style revolving stage used for theatrical transitions.
• Kabuki plays performed by local volunteers acting as both cast and crew.
• Children's kabuki performances which have been a tradition at the venue since 1981.
• The historic architecture of a Meiji-era community theater built from local timber.

When to go

• Annual kabuki performances take place every year on November 2nd and 3rd.

Getting there

• The playhouse is accessible by taking a bus from Gero Station.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.