Located in Yamaga in the northern part of Kumamoto Prefecture, Yachiyoza Theater showcases the world of Kabuki and traditional Japanese entertainment.
Built in 1910, it is a theater of human nature, ever since designed to reflect many complexities of Japanese society at that era.
But Yachiyoza Theater is still worth a visit. Divided into a main audience hall and an upper gallery, Yachiyoza Theater showed its colorful and clearly decorated ceiling, advertisements from the early 20th century. It is a sight to behold indeed.
After admiring the myriad advertisements, ranging from rice and sake to stationery and futons, be sure to go backstage and learn about how the stage itself is operated by humans turning a revolving turntable.
Yamaga also holds a light festival called “Yamaga Lantern Festival” or “Yokagura-kankusai” in February every year, where the rustic feel of Yachiyoza Theater is complemented nicely by eye-catching colorful paper umbrellas and intriguing hand-carved bamboo lanterns.
This post might be more relevant and engaging in the ~culture territory.