13Ji-kabuki

Japan’s most famous form of classical drama “Kabuki”. Within the world of “Kabuki”, there are two types, one is “Okabuki” which refers to professional actors acting out on large stages within grand cities, while the other “Ji-kabuki” refers to amateurs acting on smaller stages within the countryside. Hundreds of years ago, in Gifu Prefecture’s Eastern districts, “Ji-kabuki” was born alongside the kabuki as a whole which was gaining popularity nationwide, and that “Jik-abuki” is around even today.
The most characteristic part of Ji-kabuki is that it is performed by the local residents. The spectators shout towards the actors on stage, throw wrapped offerings, and communicate with the actors even when the performance is taking place.
Even now, there are many small kabuki cabins left in the eastern districts of Gifu Prefecture. Kashimo found in Nakatsugawa has the Kashimo Meijiza Theatre where there is a program that lets people dress up and use makeup in the same style as kabuki actors. (Reservation only)