In the last blog post, I discussed the live shows and how one can find out what times the next show would start.
While I would usually discuss the live shows first, in this case, I wanted to discuss the times of the shows because it’s the most important part for those traveling to Japan, are not fluent in Japanese and waiting for the next show to happen and not knowing, that show is several hours later.
So, with the show times discussion on how to read them out of the way and letting people know that hours of show times are not always every hour, now I can focus on the actual live shows.
With Edo Wonderland featuring a lot of places to visit within the village, the live shows was for me, the best part of Edo Wonderland that I enjoyed tremendously.
But here are a few key things to know:
It’s important to note that photography and videos are allowed for all shows EXCEPT the live ninja show (because of the risky action and such, no photos or videos allowed during the show). Flash photography is not allowed.
Once you enter, some theaters require everyone to remove their shoes.
You will also be given a piece of paper. This paper people wrap yen and after the performance, you toss it towards the stage.
Mizugei-za -Water Magic Performance-
Water is a gift from the heavens and in this secret performance with more than 1000 years of history, water is sent back to the sky in a fluttering display. Prepare to enjoy these wonderful illusions which can only be seen at Edo Wonderland.
Let’s begin with the water show. This one, you do not want to sit close to the front because there will be water squirting around.
The show is a comedy about a woman who controls the water and a guy who somehow is a butt of the joke. It’s a fun live show overall.
You can watch a short video clip here:
The Grand Ninja Theatre
Breath taking ninja action, packed with lights and sound! Watch Ninjas do battle using a range of ninja skills and weaponry as they dash through the blackened theatre! To ensure the most powerful realism, late entry is not possible so be sure to be at the door before this adrenaline filled show starts!
The next live show is the Ninja Show. One that is definitely worth watching a second or third time because the stunts are amazing. Unfortunately, no photography or video is allowed but afterward, you can take a photo with the ninjas.
Wakamatsu-ya -Oiran Courtesan Performance
A tale of an aristocrat looking for love in the red-light district of Edo – told by an oiran courtesan. In the Edo Period oiran were only accessible to a very small section of upper society. Enjoy this fusion of comedy and authentic oiran traditions resurrected as a side-splitting show. With participation from the audience this visually stunning and humorous story unfolds on stage
The next one is a Geisha storyline in which a person from the audience is selected and is a comedy about one about to be married to a geisha and also a lot of fun. Not difficult to follow at all.
And while the Live Ninja Show is the most popular and best live show at Edo Wonderland, I have to say that the next one, a play about a brother and sister. The brother is planning to leave, with his sister saddened. But with him leaving, a corrupted official and another samurai come to take her away, but the brother returns and it leads to her brother trying to protect his sister. It’s a comedy but also a bit of drama as well.
Please click here to watch a short video:
Ryogoku-za – Play
The year 1694, a ronin (masterless samurai) by the name of Yasubei Nakayama dreams of being reinstated as a samurai and restoring his family name. Yasubei receives a letter from his uncle Sugano Rokurouzaemon with news that he has been challenged to fight a number of samurai in Takadanobaba. With his uncle outnumbered and in danger Yasubei quickly rushes to his aide. What will be the outcome of this battle in Takadanobaba?
NOTE: This was a different play when I watched. This was a comedy in which a ronin leaves his sister and two samurai’s try to get to his sister while he’s gone. But when he comes back, he sees the two guys with his sister and a swordfight takes place.
You can watch a short video clip here:
Minamimachi Magistrates Office
The drama experience is finally here !!
Would you like to be a part of this humorous drama being as one of the Edo character?
Become a magistrate [Ookaechizen’nokami] and finally give judgment by taking part in this fun filled drama.
This one is a little far from the other live shows, so I think people may miss out on this one.
So, these are the live shows that people can watch at Edo Wonderland. They are not long, about 15 minutes or so but they are quite entertaining and definitely worth watching.
