Osaka Shochikuza

Osaka Shochikuza is a theatre building in the Dōtonbori district of Japan designed in Renaissance Revival style. The facade displays classical columns, arches and ornamental details that recall 19th-century European architecture.

Architect Tokusaburō Kimura designed the building, which opened on May 17, 1923. Since then it has served as a central performance venue for stage arts in Osaka.

The name Shōchiku refers to a production company that has supported Japanese stage arts for over a century. Visitors watch performers in elaborate costumes and makeup execute the stylized gestures and chants of Kabuki before a modern audience.

Visitors can buy tickets at the box office at 1-9-19 Dotonbori or reserve them online starting two months before each performance. Shows take place in an air-conditioned hall where all seats offer good views of the stage.

Each January the venue presents special New Year Kabuki programs with daily performances that combine morning and evening shows. Audiences often experience multi-hour presentations that weave traditional New Year themes into the narratives.

Location: Dōtonbori

Inception: 1923

Architects: Tokusaburō Kimura

Official opening: May 17, 1923

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Website: https://shochiku.co.jp/play/theater/shochikuza

GPS coordinates: 34.66850,135.50089

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30