Guided Tour of Kabuki-za and Tokyo’s Traditional Neighborhood

Kabuki-za is the only theater in Japan that is exclusively dedicated to kabuki plays. The current structure was rebuilt in 2010 in order to improve quake resistance, but it still retains the authentic kabuki feel of the original one from a century ago.
Hama Rikyu Gardens was founded in 1652 by Shogun Tokugawa Ietsuna. The biggest feature of this stunning place is the central tidal pond which changes its appearance according to the tide level.


Join this tour and explore in and around the famous Kabuki-za theater with an expert guide! This is a perfect introduction into the kabuki world, where you get to know about the extravagant traditional art without getting a hard-to-come-by ticket. Marvel at gorgeously detailed costumes, take photos while holding props and instrumentals, or even go up to a mock-up stage and pretend to be a fierce kabuki actor. And don't forget to check out kabuki-related goods at the souvenir shop in the basement.
After leaving Kabuki-za, the guide will show you around the surrounding Higashi Ginza area. In contrast to the adjacent Ginza district, the poshest neighborhood in Japan, Higashi Ginza has a much more casual atmosphere. Once you walk into an alley, you can find a lot of traditional specialty shops, selling Sensu (fans), Tenugui (hand towels), and Kanana (swords). The tour ends with a delicious bowl of green tea at glorious Hama Rikyu Gardens, which have been loved by many shoguns as well as the imperial family in its 350 years of history.

I'm a tour attendant with over 25 years of experience. Currently I'm working at a public tourist information center in Tokyo, and helping foreign visitors have the most enjoyable time in the city. During this tour, I would like to share plenty of detailed information and fun facts about Kabuki, and other Japanese traditions with you. In addition to Kabuki, I'm well-versed in traditional Japanese dance(Nihon buyo), as well as martial arts(Kendo, Aikido), so I can give you tons of in-depth insights into many areas of Japanese culture!

・Gallery admission fee (600 yen) and the cost of tea are not included in the price.
・Please come with comfortable clothes and shoes that are fit for walking.
・All children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
・Please make sure to always communicate through wasabijp. In order to protect your payment, never transfer money or communicate outside of the wasabijp website.
・If you feel unwell or are under the influence of alcohol at the time of arrival, you will not be able to join our experience.
・Please make sure to arrive on time. If you arrive late, you may not be able to join us, as the end time cannot be extended to make up for late arrivals.