The Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater is located to the south entrance of the Kompirasan Shrine, a restored Edo period venue to the traditional Japanese performance, also regarded as the oldest Kabuki Theater in Japan. Originally built in 1835, costing around US$500,000 to construct with fund raised by the nearby Geisha community as a permanent performance venue rather than that of the small temporary theatres built in the area. Although kabuki performances at this venue are limited from time to time, travelers can explore the traditional playhouse, along with its dressing rooms and special rotating stage devices at the basement. Special trap doors for a swift entrance and unique raising devices are all done manually. Lighting at this facility is also natural with special blinds and shades used to control the overall brightness of the theater. The Edo period atmosphere at this venue attracts thousands of travelers to experience this Important Cultural Property of Japan with over US$2 million spent on restoration fees. Tickets are extremely hard for foreign guests to obtain, but it is definitely a traditional performance worth the efforts and money to experience on a trip to Kagawa Prefecture, Japan.
