National Bunraku Theatre

The National Bunraku Theatre, located in Osaka’s Nipponbashi area, is dedicated to Bunraku (Ningyō Jōruri), a traditional Japanese performing art. Bunraku’s beginnings date back to the early Edo period, this comprehensive art form integrates three distinct roles: a chanter (tayū), a shamisen musician, and a puppeteer. It reached its golden age through the collaboration of chanter Takemoto Gidayū and playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon. Later, a troupe founded by Uemura Bunrakuken gained such prominence that its name, Bunraku-za, became synonymous with the art itself. In recognition of its profound cultural value, Bunraku was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008.
Each performance is a masterful synthesis of narrative chanting, evocative music, and lifelike puppetry, with three puppeteers collaborating in plain view to manipulate a single figure.
Established in 1984, the National Bunraku Theatre is one of the key institutions for preserving and showcasing the art of bunraku. Today, visitors can witness powerful live performances in the main hall. The theatre also features a free exhibition room with Bunraku-related artifacts and a gift shop.