Celebrating the Timeless Gems of Japanese Performing Arts Through Film

Experience the Richness of Japanese Performing Arts on Screen

The Jinbocho Theater is set to host an impressive retrospective dedicated to the cherished genre of ‘Geido Mono’, showcasing films that delve into the lives of those who have passionately pursued the performing arts in Japan. Starting from December 13, 2025, this special event will highlight the intersection of cinema and traditional performance, honoring the legacy of influential filmmakers and the cultural tapestry of Japan.

This year's sensation, the film ‘Kokuhou’, which centers around the kabuki world, ignited widespread interest and revived discussions surrounding ‘Geido Mono’—a genre with deep roots in Japan’s cinematic history. Dating back to the pre-war era, numerous films have explored the nuanced stories of kabuki and Noh performers, weaving a rich narrative landscape that continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. Among these, legendary directors like Kenji Mizoguchi and Mikio Naruse are revered for their masterpieces that encapsulate the essence of this genre.

The curated selection comprises a total of eight critically acclaimed films, chosen for their artistic value and cultural significance. As you immerse yourself in these stories that have stood the test of time, you'll find both the heart and soul of Japanese performing arts captured on screen. Here is the list of the remarkable films included in the program:

1. Tabi Yakusha (Traveling Actors) - Directed by Mikio Naruse (1940)
Featuring: Keita Fujiwara, Kan Yanagi, Koko Kiyokawa

2. Uta Gaho (Song Lantern) - Directed by Mikio Naruse (1943)
Featuring: Shōtarō Hanayagi, Isuzu Yamada, Jirō Yanagi

3. Jinsei Tonbo Gai (Life: A Summary) - Directed by Masahiro Makino (1955)
Featuring: Kōji Morita, Isuzu Yamada, Sachi Seto

4. Zankiku Monogatari (Tale of the Remaining Chrysanthemums) - Directed by Hideo Oba (1963)
Featuring: Mariko Okada, Ichikawa Sanshō III, Jumonji Sogo

5. Tsuruhachi Tsurujirō - Directed by Mikio Naruse (1938)
Featuring: Kazuo Hasegawa, Isuzu Yamada, Keita Fujiwara

6. Zankiku Monogatari (Tale of the Remaining Chrysanthemums) - Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi (1939)
Featuring: Shōtarō Hanayagi, Akiko Mori, Kōki Takada

7. Shibaido (Acting Road) - Directed by Mikio Naruse (1944)
Featuring: Kazuo Hasegawa, Isuzu Yamada, Midori Furukawa

8. Unueimon to Sono Tsuma (Unueimon and His Wife) - Directed by Kōgi Yasuda (1962)
Featuring: Haruhiko Miwa, Yumeji Tsukioka, Hiroko Urasawa

Set in the heart of Chiyoda, Tokyo, the Jinbocho Theater is a cherished space for film enthusiasts and a beacon for those wishing to explore Japan's cinematic past. Tickets will be available at 1400 yen for general admission, 1200 yen for seniors, and 1000 yen for students.

For more information on showtimes and ticket reservations, please visit the official Jinbocho Theater website at Jinbocho Theater.

With the opportunity to experience the elegance and depth of the ‘Geido Mono’ genre, visitors are encouraged to spend an enriching time at Jinbocho Theater, discovering the beauty of Japan's traditional performing arts through the magic of film.