Step back into the Edo period right in the heart of Tokyo, Asakusa, the Birthplace of Traditional Popular Entertainment!
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night, a unique and colorful show called “Oiran Night Rock” takes place in front of Don Quijote in Asakusa.
Free Oiran Night Rock in Tokyo
The show runs from 9:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and it’s completely free to watch!
The event begins with a traditional Oiran Dochu – a slow, elegant procession where beautifully dressed oiran (courtesans from the Edo period) walk through the street. Once they reach the stage, the atmosphere changes: modern rock music plays, and a vibrant performance begins!
What is an Oiran?
Oiran were high-ranking courtesans in Edo-period Japan. But they were much more than that—they were artists, entertainers, and fashion icons.
With their elaborate hairstyles, colorful kimono, and refined manners, oiran represented the height of beauty and culture in their time.
What is Oiran Dochu?
The Oiran Dochu was a formal parade in which an oiran, accompanied by her young attendants (called kamuro), would walk through the town to meet a client.
With her tall wooden clogs and graceful movements, the oiran’s walk was like a living performance.
Highlights of Oiran Night Rock
The show, Oiran Night Rock features two performance groups from Asakusa: Asakusa Kaguwa and Asakusa Ukonya.
Asakusa Kaguwa
Kaguwa is an entertainment theater in Tokyo, where shows that blend Japanese tradition with modern elements.
Ukonya
Ukonya is a Japanese entertainment group led by Nihon Buyo (Japanese traditional dance) artist Ukon Takafuji.
Each night, one of the groups performs. Once a month, Kaguwa and Ukonya team up for a Special Night Show, offering an even more spectacular performance!
The oiran appear from both the north and south sides of the street, slowly approaching and meeting on the center stage, and then the show begins.
A Tokyo Must-See Spot
The event takes place on Asakusa Rokku Broadway, right in front of Don Quijote Asakusa. It’s open to everyone—no tickets or reservations needed. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo or just passing by, it’s an unforgettable experience. And yes, photography is welcome!
You can check the schedule on the official website of the Asakusa Rokku Area Management Association.
If you’re in Tokyo on the weekend, don’t miss it—this free street show might just become the highlight of your trip.
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