Kabuki (歌舞伎) is a traditional Japanese form of theater with roots tracing back to the Edo Period (1603-1868). It is recognized as one of Japan’s three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Kabuki is an art form rich in showmanship. It involves elaborately designed costumes, eye-catching make-up, outlandish wigs, and arguably most importantly, the exaggerated actions performed by the actors. The highly-stylized movements serve to convey meaning to the audience; this is especially important since an old-fashioned form of Japanese is typically used, which is difficult even for Japanese people to fully understand.

Dynamic stage sets such as revolving platforms and trapdoors allow for the prompt changing of a scene or the appearance/disappearance of actors. Another specialty of the kabuki stage is a footbridge (hanamichi) that leads through the audience, allowing for a dramatic entrance or exit. Ambiance is aided with live music performed using traditional instruments. These elements combine to produce a visually stunning and captivating performance.

(https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2090.html)

So we went to see Kabuki in a rural town about 2 hours from us with a tour from base. The Kabuki Theater we went to is the oldest in Japan!

We got a backstage tour. Under the stage is a large wheel which turns the stage 180 degrees for set changes.

After the play there was a brief intermission so we could get udon and ice cream, then came the second act of dances with music.

After the play we went to the nearby seven step waterfall.