A Unique Blend of Noh, Autumn Leaves, and the Japanese Garden in Tokyo
On Sunday, November 17, I had the pleasure of enjoying a Noh performance at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, a renowned Japanese garden located near Kagurazaka in Shinjuku Ward. While modern Noh performances are mostly held indoors in Noh theaters, this outdoor performance was reminiscent of the art form's origins. Experiencing Noh amid the autumn leaves in the breathtaking setting of a Japanese garden in Tokyo was an unparalleled luxury.
About Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of Japan’s few gardens, and it is designated as both a Special Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Across the country, only five gardens share this dual designation, and only two are in Tokyo. From November 16 to December 8, the garden is hosting the event "Shinzan Koyo o Tanoshimu (Enjoy the Mountain’s Autumn Colors)." On November 17, a Noh performance by the Hosho school was held in this stunning location. The Hosho Noh Theater is just an 8-minute walk from Koishikawa Korakuen Garden.
About the Noh Performance: “Tatsuta”
The featured performance was “Tatsuta,” a play that celebrates the beauty of autumn leaves, making it a perfect fit for the season. The lead actor (Shite) wore costumes in vibrant autumn hues, perfectly matching the theme. The play is based on Tatsuta Myojin, a Shinto deity revered as the guardian of autumn leaves and their brilliant colors.
2023 Hosho School Noh Performance: 'Makiginu' Held at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
The day before the Noh performance, on November 16, the garden also hosted a traditional skills demonstration: “Pine Tree Snow Tying” (Matsu no Yukizuri). Visitors could admire the beautifully tied ropes around the pines, which added to the picturesque scenery.
Upcoming Events at Koishikawa Korakuen"Shinzan Koyo o Tanoshimu (Enjoy the Mountain’s Autumn Colors)"
Edo String Puppet Performance: November 23
Edo Koma (Traditional Spinning Top) Performance: November 30
Autumn with Little Plum (Ko-Ume-chan): Daily during the event period
Garden Guided Tours: Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays during the event period
Temporary Food Stalls (Light Snacks and Drinks): November 22–December 8
The peak autumn foliage is expected during the Edo String Puppet Performance (November 23) and Edo Spinning Top Performance (November 30). While the Noh performance has concluded, you can still enjoy the enchanting blend of Edo-period (1603-1868) traditional culture and autumn colors at the garden.
If you would like an English-speaking guide, we are happy to assist. Not only can we guide you through Koishikawa Korakuen, but we can also lead you on a walking tour through Kagurazaka, A Town of Serendipity. Enjoy a stroll through the elegant streets of Kagurazaka and the beauty of a historic Japanese garden—an experience sure to bring you joy.
Did you miss this Noh performance? No problem! We invite you to join our exclusive Noh experience tour at the Yarai Noh Theater in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku. During this tour, a Noh actor will perform privately just for your group, and you’ll have the unforgettable opportunity to step onto the Noh stage yourself, wear an authentic Noh mask, and fully immerse yourself in this unique art form. It’s truly an experience you’ll never forget.
A Special Tip for Readers:
For those who read to the end, here’s an exclusive tip: Near Koishikawa Korakuen, you’ll find the Bunkyo Civic Center’s Observation Lounge on the 25th floor. From this 105-meter-high vantage point, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo, including the University of Tokyo, Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku’s skyscrapers, and even Mount Fuji and Mount Tsukuba on clear days.
At sunset, you can see the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and Mount Fuji side by side—a breathtaking sight. The Observation Lounge is free to enter and rarely crowded. As of November 17, the sunset time is 4:33 PM.
After exploring Koishikawa Korakuen and strolling through Kagurazaka, why not visit this hidden gem? Our guides are also happy to show you the way.
Koishikawa Korakuen Graden
Location:
1-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), Closed: December 29 - January 1
Admission:
General ¥300, Seniors (65 and older) ¥150 (Free for children in elementary school and younger, and for Tokyo residents or students in junior high school)
Access:
West Gate:
3-minute walk from Exit C3 of Iidabashi Station on the Toei Oedo Line (E06)
8-minute walk from the East Exit of Iidabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line (JB16)
8-minute walk from Exits A1 and A3 of Iidabashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai, Yurakucho, and Namboku Lines (T06 / Y13 / N10)
8-minute walk from Exits 1 and 2 of Korakuen Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Namboku Lines (M22 / N11)
East Gate:
5-minute walk from the West Exit of Suidobashi Station on the JR Sobu Line (JB17)
6-minute walk from Exit 2 of Korakuen Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Namboku Lines (M22 / N11)
8-minute walk from Exit A2 of Suidobashi Station on the Toei Mita Line (I11)
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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