HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Sugie Noh Theater in Kishiwada
Visit the oldest Noh theater in Osaka Prefecture, built in 1917, and enjoy a meal with views of the stage and forecourt
Kinki District Transport Bureau
For an off-the-beaten-track experience, visit the Sugie Noh Theater in Kishiwada City. Established in 1917 and built using parts from the original Noh stage in Kishiwada Castle, it is the oldest Noh theater in Osaka Prefecture. This theater offers a special glimpse into Japan’s classical performing arts and traditional architecture.
The stage’s design is inspired by the north stage of Nishi Honganji Temple in Kyoto, a National Treasure, and features a peaceful white gravel forecourt, three living pine trees, and an L-shaped seating area surrounding the stage.
The theater is one of the few remaining examples of its kind, because it was built during the Meiji and Taisho periods (1868-1926), when Noh theaters changed from outdoor stages to being housed indoors. The seats and stage are situated in separate but interconnected buildings, so visitors can enjoy the performances along with the fresh breeze, which adds to the tranquil indoor/outdoor atmosphere.
Additionally, the theater includes a restaurant, Kofuan, where guests can savor Japanese cuisine or traditional sweets as they take in the view of the historic stage.
How to get there
From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Osaka-Metro Midosuji Line to Namba Station (about 15 minutes) then switch to the Nankai Main Line and ride to Kishiwada Station (about 25 minutes). The theater is a 10-minute walk away.
6-10 Kishiki-cho, Kishiwada-shi, Osaka-fu
