A Living Theater from the Taishō Era
Built in 1916 to celebrate the enthronement of Emperor Taishō, Uchiko-za is one of Japan’s finest surviving kabuki-style theaters from the Taishō era (1912–1926). This elegant two-story wooden playhouse, crowned with a distinctive tiled Dutch-gable roof, was designed as a full-scale traditional theater equipped with the latest stage technology of its time.
Inside, visitors can find classic theater features such as a revolving stage, hanamichi runway extending through the audience, traditional box seating, and backstage dressing rooms. Combining craftsmanship, artistry, and innovation, Uchiko-za remains a rare glimpse into Japan’s vibrant theatrical culture of the early 20th century.
Although the building once faced demolition due to deterioration, passionate local residents worked together to preserve this cultural treasure. Following extensive restoration work, the theater reopened in 1985 and has since continued to serve as an important cultural venue for performances and community events.
*Important Notice*
Uchiko-za is currently closed for large-scale renovation and seismic reinforcement work from September 2, 2024, and is scheduled to remain closed for approximately four years. We sincerely appreciate your understanding during this period.
During the renovation period, visitors can still explore the historic backstage dressing rooms located behind the theater. Further information is available below under “Check Point”.
Check Point
- Under the Stage: “Naraku” (Hell)
- The space beneath the stage and hanamichi runway is known as the "naraku", meaning “hell”.
In the days before modern machinery, the revolving stage and stage lifts were operated entirely by hand. The underground workspace was dark, humid, and physically demanding, which led people to nickname it "naraku".
At Uchiko-za, visitors can actually step down into this fascinating behind-the-scenes space and experience a hidden part of traditional Japanese theater for themselves.
- The Opening Performance
- Uchiko-za’s inaugural performance featured a traditional puppet theater show. At a time when entertainment opportunities were limited, performances at the theater were eagerly anticipated by local people.
It is said that audiences arrived carrying lunch boxes, snacks, and even alcohol, spending the entire day enjoying the festive atmosphere and performances together. The opening event became a great success and a memorable occasion for the town.
- Masu-seki (Box Seats)
- Traditional kabuki and puppet theaters in Japan were designed with a unique box-style seating arrangement known as masu-seki. The floor was divided into square sections by wooden frames, with each square space reserved for a small group of guests.
Because each section was rented as "hito-masu" (“one box”), these seating areas came to be known as "masu-seki", or "box seats".
- Dressing Room
- The backstage dressing rooms of Uchiko-za were renovated in March 2011 as the Cultural and Artistic Activities Support Center. During the current preservation and seismic reinforcement work, the backstage area is open to visitors and features exhibitions and video presentations introducing the history and charm of Uchiko-za. We warmly invite you to stop by and explore this unique behind-the-scenes space.
- Further Information
Video
Information
| Address: | 2102 Uchiko, Uchiko-cho, Kita-gun, Ehime, Japan |
|---|---|
| Tel: | +81-893-44-2840 |
| Opening Hours: | Daily from 9:00 to 16:30 Closed: December 29 – January 2 |
| Admission: | ・Adults: ￥400 ・Children (6–15 years): ￥200 ・Preschool children: Free Group Rates (20 people or more): ・Adults: ￥300 ・Children (6–15 years): ￥160 Set Ticket Available: Valid for the Japanese Wax Museum & Kamihaga Residence, Uchiko-za, and the Museum of Commercial & Domestic Life. |
| Parking: | Free parking available for up to 7 vehicles |
| Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anhBZMVYIdw&feature=youtu.be |
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