Enjoy the dance show featuring an Oiran at Asakusa Kaguwa in Tokyo!
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Asakusa, located in central Tokyo, is a lively neighborhood known for its rich history and cultural attractions. With the famous Senso-ji Temple as its centerpiece, Asakusa offers a glimpse into traditional Japan through its bustling streets filled with souvenir shops and street food vendors. The area also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with plenty of classic Japanese eateries serving up local favorites like tempura, sushi, and grilled eel.
Whether you’re exploring its historical sites or sampling its delicious food, Asakusa is a must-visit destination for visitors to Tokyo.When the sun sets and local shops begin to close, a new attraction opens its doors in Asakusa, drawing the attention of both tourists and locals. We are talking about Asakusa Kaguwa, the best geisha and samurai japanese entertainment show in Tokyo.
A few days ago I had the opportunity to see this entertainment show and in this article I will like to introduce it to you and share my experience and honest opinion regarding this new activity in Asakusa, Tokyo!
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links by Rakuten Travel Experiences.
Asakusa Kaguwa
Asakusa Kaguwa is an unique Japanese-style entertainment show. We could say it’s primarily a dance show, with performers dressed as Oiran (Japanese courtesans), geishas, and samurais, but it’s more than that. Through elaborate choreography and staging, this show tells various stories. Being a non-verbal performance, you don’t need to understand Japanese to grasp the narrative.
The live show consists of several short acts, as well as a pre-show where performers interact with the public. Be prepare to be captivated by a performance that that you won’t soon forget! An energetic performance featuring lively dances, dynamic choreography, vibrant sets and costumes, and even thrilling Samurai sword fighting action. You can even take a photo with the actors, including a Japanese Oiran, after the show! All this can be enjoyed while having Japanese food, drinks, and snacks.
On weekdays (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday) they only perform one show from 19:00 to 20:00 (open at 18:00), and two performances on Saturdays and Sundays from 17:00-18:00 (opens at 16:00) and from 20:00-23:00 (open at 19:00). Please note that shows are not held on Mondays and Tuesdays.
It’s recommended go with time so you have time to order some food, check the venue, go to the bathroom before the show starts, etc. Also, to avoid disturbing other visitors by entering the building after the show has started.
<<Asakusa Kaguwa Show Reservation in Tokyo>>
My Experience at Asakusa Kaguwa
As I said, I had the chance to enjoy this show, so now I will like to share with you my first-hand experience going to the Asakusa Kaguwa!
1. Arriving at the location
The venue where the new Asakusa Kaguwa is performed is located very close to Sensoji Temple, on a covered pedestrian street filled with local restaurants. The entrance is small, but you’ll see a red sign with the name written in kanji and Roman letters, along with Japanese paper lanterns.
The stage and the reception desk are located on the 2nd floor. Please note that there are no lifts or elevator, so for those that are in a wheelchair or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask assistance from the staff.
At the reception desk they will ask for your reservation, and after confirming it, you will be guided to your seat. You can also ask them to take care of your coat, or if you have some small luggage.
The venue features a simple yet elegant decor with a traditional Japanese touch. The predominant color is red, with light-colored flowers and wooden decorations. Please note that seating is for a minimum of two people, so if you come alone, you may be seated next to another person.
2. Food & Drinks
The admission includes a complimentary drink, which you can choose to be alcoholic or non-alcoholic.
Additionally, there’s a small food menu featuring some quick dishes and sweets. I ordered a plate of edamame and another of karaage (Japanese fried chicken). I must say the portions were much larger than I expected, and I couldn’t finish it all. But it’s perfect if you’re two people or more.
Please note that during the show, you can’t order drinks or food. If you want to order anything, you have to do so before the show starts. You can eat and drink (not making noise) during the show, but not place new orders. Also, although during the show the place gets pretty dark, the lights from the show gently illuminate the venue, so don’t worry as you won’t need to eat in complete darkness.
*Note: the legal drinking age in Japan is 20, so alcoholic beverages can only be purchased by guests 20 years and older.
3. The Show
The show has a duration of one hour, in which there are different stories. First it starts with energetic dances, in traditional Japanese clothes. There are several changes of clothes and choreographies.
They also introduce some elements of Japanese culture, with explanations in English, and even some funny interaction with the audience. But that’s not all, we also find emotional stories that touch our hearts.
At the end, comes the central play. A story about two lovers who are separated as she is sold to a house in Kyoto’s red light district to pay her mother’s debts, but they promise to meet again. Will these lovers be able to reunite again?
But they keep the best part for the last moment: a Japanese Oiran takes the stage!
My opinion
I have been in different shows due to my work, but this experience it was something totally new that you won’t find elsewhere! I especially liked the fact that they can convey a story and even move you without saying a single word. Performers are really talented, and the choreography is very well crafted.
It used to be a very popular show held in Roppongi, but I think Asakusa is a much better location! Asakusa is undoubtedly the neighborhood in Tokyo where you can feel the most the traditional Japan, and it matches perfectly with the clothes of the show.
Asakusa Kaguwa Tickets
As I previously mentioned, the Asakusa Kaguwa is open from Wednesday to Sunday, with two shows on the weekends and one single show on weekdays. When I went it was full book, mostly with tourist so is a pretty popular show.
<<Asakusa Kaguwa Show Reservation in Tokyo>>
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, make sure to book online in advance and don’t miss the chance to enjoy yourself of this amazing show!
-Asakusa Kaguwa-
 Access |
5 min walk from Asakusa Station |
|---|---|
 Address |
1 -12-10 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032 |
 Language |
Japanese, English |
 Official Website |
https://www.asakusa-kaguwa.com/ |
 Nearest station |
Asakusa Station |
I hope this report has helped you! If you have a chance to visit Asakusa, check these articles too 😉
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Written by
From Barcelona to Tokyo. Coffee & Adventure lover🌏☕️
I started to like Japan because of the anime, music and doramas, but after my first trip to the country I found what I love the most: traveling around, the culture and history. I have travelled a lot in Japan, but I still have many places to discover that I want to share with you🙋🏼♀️ Let’s discover Japan together!
Also, as a foreigner living in Japan for over 6 years I understand what kind of things are difficult when you move here and I want to help other people in the same situation that I have in the past.
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