About us
Located in the heart of Asakusa, Mokubakan is a rare theater where traditional Japanese performing arts continue to thrive. With roots in the Meiji period, it survived the war (WWII) and began its journey as a popular theater in 1977. Here, you can experience Taishu Engeki up close — a vibrant form of Japanese entertainment enjoyed by audiences for over 100 years.
Here, you can witness this vibrant form of entertainment up close—a mix of drama, swordplay, music, and dance that has delighted everyday people for over a century.
Performers belong to traveling troupes, living and working together as they tour the country. Many have trained from childhood to perfect their craft.
Expect captivating historical dramas, thrilling swordfights, and emotional stories filled with warmth and humanity. The dance performances, featuring lavish costumes and graceful movements, are a highlight not to be missed.
One especially beautiful tradition is the onnagata—male actors portraying female roles with stunning elegance and poise. Unlike kabuki, however, women also appear on stage, sometimes making it delightfully challenging to discern who is performing in the moment.
What makes this experience truly unique is how close you are to the action. You’ll feel the energy of the stage, see every expression, and become part of the live performance. It’s an unforgettable encounter with authentic Japanese entertainment.