A guide to music and traditional performing arts in Tokyo

Tokyo is a music city through and through, with a buzzing scene taking in everything from classical concerts and opera to jazz, rock, and dance music. It’s also a great place to experience traditional Japanese performing arts like Kabuki and Noh. Here’s our guide to the best spots for diving into the music and performing arts that color Tokyo’s vibrant nights.

Marvel at a world-class music hall

Tokyo’s high-quality concert halls invite you to enjoy masterful performances of classical music. Opera connoisseurs flock to venues like the New National Theatre, Tokyo, while Suntory Hall regularly hosts internationally acclaimed musicians and orchestras. Each season brings a new, diverse slate of performances to savor.

Enjoy some casual listening

If you aren’t keen on planning too far ahead, set course for a casual gig spot or music bar you can just pop into. There are plenty of those to choose from, from jazz clubs featuring seasoned musicians to lively concert venues ( known as “live houses” in Japan) where rock bands play. You’ll also find a wide selection of nightclubs and bars with DJs spinning records, and audio-focused listening bars dedicated to a specific genre. For details, check out this website.

Watch traditional performing arts

Traditional performing arts like Kabuki and Noh theater are uniquely Japanese forms of entertainment. The renowned Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza is the world’s only theater dedicated entirely to Kabuki, while in Shibuya the Cerulean Tower Noh Theatre hosts Noh and Kyogen (traditional comic theater) plays, as well as performances of Japanese dance, traditional music, and Rakugo storytelling, alongside collaborative productions that take in ballet and classical music.

In Tokyo’s music and performing arts scene, the traditional coexists with the cutting edge. Dive into its deep end for what’s sure to be a special experience.