Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Takarazuka Revue (Takarazuka Revue Company) is a leading Japanese musical revue company founded by Ichizo Kobayashi in 1913, and is best known for its all-female cast. Takarazuka Grand Theater (Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture) is its home theater, and is known for its lavish stage productions, gorgeous costumes, the highly specialized division of roles between male and female roles, and its passionate fan culture.
They perform a wide variety of shows, including traditional Western musicals, revues (dance-based shows), and Japanese productions. The stage equipment, lighting, and sound are of a high standard, and the scale and star quality of the productions are what make them so appealing. The Takarazuka Revue is divided into several groups (Hana, Tsuki, Yuki, Hoshi, Sora, etc.), each of which puts on unique performances.
Highlights
- Lavish Set Design and Costumes: Large-scale sets, lavish costumes, and meticulous production details will transport the audience to an extraordinary world.
- The powerful posture and singing of male roles: Female actors playing male roles (otokoyaku) are one of the iconic charms of Takarazuka.
- Revue Show: The dance and song show is a spectacular production and well worth watching, including the intermissions.
- Star presence: The charisma of top and popular stars and their interactions with fans (curtain calls, etc.) are also attractive features.
- Theater facilities: Enjoy a variety of stage equipment, including a large revolving stage and runway that are unique to large theaters.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station
- Hankyu Railway: Within walking distance from Hankyu Takarazuka Station (Hankyu Takarazuka Main Line)
- JR: Accessible on foot or by bus from JR Takarazuka Station (Fukuchiyama Line = JR Takarazuka Line)
- Approximate travel time from major cities
- From Osaka (Umeda): Approximately 35-45 minutes by Hankyu Limited Express (direct)
- From JR Osaka Station: Approximately 30-40 minutes on the JR Takarazuka Line (depending on transfers and train types)
- From Kobe (Sannomiya): Approximately 40-60 minutes (via Hankyu or JR)
- Car/Parking: There are parking lots around the theater, but they tend to be crowded and full during performances, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Purchase tickets: Official website, official play guide, tickets at convenience stores, theater tours by travel agencies, etc. Popular performances sell out quickly, so it is recommended to make arrangements in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Performances: A performance usually lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours (with a break).
- Staying at the theater (including shopping, eating, and strolling around the lobby): It's a good idea to allow yourself 1-2 hours before and after the performance.
- Total time: Approximately 3-5 hours if you only visit the theater, but half a day to a full day if you also include sightseeing in the surrounding area.
Nearby spots
- Takarazuka Onsen: A hot spring facility where you can relax after a show (check the facility name and opening hours in advance)
- The Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum (Takarazuka City): A facility associated with the manga artist Osamu Tezuka. Many people visit the museum in conjunction with a Takarazuka performance (please check access and opening hours).
- Kiyoshikojinji Temple: An ancient temple known for its New Year's visits and protection from evil spirits. Accessible by public transportation.
- Shopping district and cafes in front of Takarazuka Station: There are restaurants and souvenir shops around the theater, so you can spend time before and after the show.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Stations and theaters can be extremely crowded during popular performances, on weekends, Golden Week, and the New Year holidays. Please allow plenty of time for your trip.
- Tickets: Reselling tickets can lead to trouble. Buy tickets through official sales channels.
- Photography and recording prohibited: In principle, photography, recording, and video recording are prohibited during the performance. There are also restrictions on photography in the lobby depending on the location and timing, so please follow the instructions.
- Cell Phones and Manners: Please turn off your cell phone or put it on silent mode during the performance, and refrain from speaking or standing or walking around. By observing good manners, everyone can enjoy the show comfortably.
- Gifts and letters: There may be official rules and regulations set up at the theater regarding gifts and letters to performers. Food and drink are often not accepted for hygiene reasons, so please check the official guidelines.
- Seasonal notes: In summer, take precautions against the heat by moving outside, and in winter, take precautions against the cold. On rainy days, the route from the station to the theater may be congested.
Finally, be sure to check the official website for the latest information on performance schedules, ticket information, theater access details, and facility information. Even if it's your first time seeing a Takarazuka performance, you'll have a better experience if you familiarize yourself with etiquette and venue information beforehand.
