Performing arts are an important part of Japanese culture – these have emerged through the centuries and are still as popular today as they were hundreds of years ago.

Below we explore some of the most well-known:

Kabuki
Kabuki has been part of the Japanese culture since the early 1600’s and is a traditional art; combining music, dance and drama on the stage with elegant and dramatic costumes to compliment the stories it tells. It was originally performed only by females; inspired by a woman called “Izumo no Okuni”.  However, due to the nature of some of the dancing styles being considered “too suggestive” it was banned for a while by the Government.  Moving towards the 17th Century, Kabuki became popular once more but this time only men were allowed to perform.  This is still the case today. [Read more...]