Japan has a long tradition of performing arts - the three major classical arts are recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages.

Kabuki

Kabuki involves elaborate costumes, make-up, wigs, and exaggerated actions. Stylized movements convey meaning, which is helpful, as an old-fashioned form of Japanese is used that is difficult even for the locals to understand! All the performers are male.

The Kabukiza in Tōkyō’s Ginza district is a top theatre to go to watch kabuki.

Noh

Noh is based on song and dance, with slow movement, poetic language, monotonous tone, and fancy costumes. Plots are drawn from legend, history and literature, while themes often relate to dreams, supernatural worlds, ghosts and spirits. All the performers are male.