KOKUHO

Set in Osaka, Tamate Bridge combines the nostalgic spirit of the Showa era with the serene beauty of nature. Even for those unfamiliar with the film Kokuhō, its tranquil presence leaves a deep impression. This is a place where cinema and reality intertwine, allowing every visitor to feel the heartbeat of a story that transcends the screen.

In KOKUHO, the “Oneri” procession symbolizes the strength that resides in silence. Filmed at Kyoto’s Imamiya Shrine, the scene captures the spiritual path of those devoted to their art. Within this sacred space lies the unmistakable proof that tradition is still alive today.

The quiet shrine of Mitsumori Daimyojin, located near the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo, was chosen as the sacred backdrop in KOKUHO. Here, Kikuo’s pact with the devil embodies both the artistic resolve of performers and the competitive drive of athletes striving for victory.

Nestled in Kyoto’s oldest hanamachi, Kamishichiken Kaburenjo is more than a theater—it is a living cultural treasure. By serving as a set for KOKUHO, the venue reveals how traditional performing arts and modern film can merge to create new cultural value.

For over a century, the Pontocho Kaburenjo has been the stage supporting Kyoto’s Geiko and Maiko. In KOKUHO, it appears as Naniwaza, drawing renewed attention to its history and elegance.

Biwako Otsukan, with its striking white walls and red-tiled Momoyama exterior, was featured as “Hinomotoza” in the movie KOKUHO. The film used its lobby for rehearsal scenes, highlighting the venue’s grandeur and atmosphere. Beyond its cinematic fame, the building has become a unique place where history, architecture, and tourism intersect, drawing countless visitors eager to experience its cultural significance.

Known as a cultural treasure of Western Japan, Izushi Eirakukan embodies more than a century of theatrical history. In the film KOKUHO, it was not merely a backdrop but a living character that amplified the drama. To enter this playhouse is to experience both the past and the cinematic world that brought it back into the spotlight.

KOKUHÔ: National Treasures of Japan is a story of art and life, tradition and renewal. Its impact has rippled through society, introducing the richness of Japanese culture to both domestic and international audiences. It will remain a lasting cultural milestone for years to come.