Appreciate a Masterpiece of Puppet Theater Accompanied by Gidayu Narrative Recitation
About this spot
Built on the site of the residence of Jiro Hyoe Bando, the protagonist of the puppet theater masterpiece "The Courtesan and the Awa Whirlpool," this is a specialized museum dedicated to Awa puppet theater. Daily scheduled performances are held on the stage within the museum, where you can appreciate the famous scene "The Pilgrimage Song Section," featuring a daughter named Otsuru and her mother Oyumi meeting without revealing their identities, accompanied by live Gidayu narrative recitation. The movements of the wooden puppets, each operated by three puppeteers, are surprisingly nuanced, and you'll find yourself naturally drawn into the moving scenes. The exhibition room allows you to learn about the mechanisms of wooden puppets and the culture of puppet theater rooted in Awa, and the very space of the residence with its garden views is brimming with traditional charm.
Tips
Confirm scheduled performance times in advance and coordinate your visit with an afternoon performance. It's about a 15-minute drive from Tokushima Station, and free parking is available. If using bus transport, note that service is limited, so check return bus times in advance for peace of mind.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes required. Visiting to coincide with an afternoon scheduled performance allows you to fully immerse yourself in the world of the story.
Access & map
〒771-0114 Tokushima Prefecture, Tokushima City, Kawauchi Town, Miyajima Honnoura 184
Model course featuring this spot
Tokushima: Awa Odori Kaikan and Tokushima Castle Ruins - A Cultural Walk Through the Castle Town
Tokushima
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.