The Kagurazaka geisha district was established in the late Edo period. Its origin dates back to 1788 when an entertainment venue was created within a section of the Gyoganji temple grounds. By around 1857, a geisha district had formed, where geisha specializing in shamisen, singing, and dancing livened up the sake gatherings.

Observing practice at the rehearsal studio (Kenban).

Ozashiki Asobi (Entertainment) at luxury Ryotei

Enjoying geisha songs and dances at the restaurant.

Chatting with geisha at the bar.

Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese craft, primarily consisting of intricately braided thin silk threads. It's a unique handcrafted item made by skilled artisans. 

Kumihimo at Domyo, a Historic Studio Established in 1652.

Domyo has restored ancient Kumihimo braids that are over 1000 years old from Nara's Shosoin and Iwate's Chusonji. These restored braids can be viewed at the Kumihimo Museum.

Kumihimo-making experience and guided tours of the Kumihimo Museum in English.

Take home your own handmade Kumihimo and Kumihimo book as a souvenir.

Soma-ya: Stationery Shop - Established in 1659. Renowned literary figures such as Natsume Soseki and Kitahara Hakushu were users.

Sukeroku: Footwear, Bags, and Umbrella Shop - Founded in 1910. Celebrities include Yosano Akiko and Tekkan, Kikuchi Kan, and Miyagi Michiowere users. 

Isuzu: Japanese Confectionery Shop - Established in 1946. 

Baikatei: Japanese Confectionery Shop - Founded in 1935.

Rakuzan: Japanese Tea Shop, Opened in 1968 in Kagurazaka. It offers a rich selection of high-quality Japanese tea.

Experience Ukiyo-e Woodblock Printing at Takahashi Kobo, Japan's Oldest Studio, Established during the Ansei Era (1855-1860).

4th CEO, Mr. Harumasa Takahashi, demonstrated traditional woodblock techniques before the Emperor and Empress.

6th CEO, Ms. Yukiko Takahashi (current CEO), actively promotes ukiyo-e internationally.

Explanation of how to appreciate ukiyo-e by artisans. 

Take home your handmade fan, book cover, and one authentic ukiyo-e created by artisans  (retail price around ¥20,000) as souvenirs.

Kagurazaka tops the list of recommendations from Shinjuku residents for foreign tourists.

It's a historic and culturally rich town since the 17 century, the Edo period.

Kagurazaka combines the past and present, like samurai residences, temple towns, geisha districts, commercial areas, and French culture.

As a cultural hub, Kagurazaka hosts many Japanese cultural custodians, including Living National Treasures and traditional performers.

The area's charm is in its cobblestone alleys and sloping streets, drawing a diverse crowd.

Expert guides well-versed in Kagurazaka lead the way.

The Noh Theater, owned by the Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Kanze Kyuko Kai.

Registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property.

The current stage and building were reconstructed in 1952, making it the second oldest Noh theater in Tokyo.

Presentation of a Noh performance by a Noh actor and a mini-lecture on Noh.

Tour of the Yarai Noh Theater, including backstage access (including the viewing of precious Noh masks).

You can experience performing on the Noh stage.