Osaka Shochikuza Theatre

Distinguished by its neo-Renaissance facade – sometimes called the ‘Arc de Triomphe of Dotonbori’ – the Shochikuza Theatre celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023. Originally built as a multi-purpose facility that hosted both plays and film screenings, the structure was renovated in 1997 and now focuses exclusively on performing arts, with the programme ranging from kabuki and rakugo (traditional storytelling) to contemporary theatre, musicals and concerts.