Miyako Odori Cherry Dance 都をどり
|
|
|
Entrance to the road leading to the Cherry Dance theater (Gion Kobu Kaburenjo) in the Gion district. The sign says "Miyako Odori."
|
|
More signposts reading "Miyako Odori." "Miyako" means capital (Kyoto was once Japan's capital city), and "Odori" means dance.
|
|
"Miyako Odori" sign post. Performed for over a century, the dance makes April a very special time in Kyoto. It helps to hone the dance and musical skills of the geiko and maiko who diligently practice for this annual dance.
|
|
"Miyako Odori" poster in English.
|
|
"Miyako Odori" poster and paper lantern.
|
|
|
PR posters and paper lanterns for the Miyako Odori are everywhere.
|
|
Ichiriki, a famous geisha tea house.
|
|
Maiko and geisha can often be seen in Gion.
|
|
Gate to Kobu Kaburenjo Theater. Four shows daily in April, lasting about 1 hour (too short). Ticket prices range from 1900 yen to 4300 yen.
|
|
Gate to Kobu Kaburenjo Theater. You can make ticket reservations by phone, or go directly to the theater ticket office and buy tickets.
|
|
Kobu Kaburenjo Theater
|
|
Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater. Ticket office is on the right. Best to buy tickets at least a few days in advance.
|
|
The cherry dance consists of several acts each with a different dance or play.
|
|
A hanamichi is also on the left side of the theater.
|
|
We were right near the hanamichi where the geisha performed.
|
|
Note that taking pictures and videos are not allowed.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Main stage at front.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A play
|
|
|
|
|
|
Autumn
|
|
Somebody had a big head...
|
|
|
|
|
Miyako Odori, Kyoto
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Climax with cherry blossom motif.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cherry Dance, Kyoto.
|
|
|
Kyoto geiko and maiko at their best for the finale.
|
|
These dance photos were taken in April 2002. Note that taking pictures and videos of the dance are no longer allowed.
|
|
|
|
|
|
