Yachiyoza Theater

This playhouse was built in 1908 by Yamaga businessmen called “mistershu.” It was built in the classical Edo period style, featuring a revolving stage made of German rails and other advanced features. The theater opened in 1911, and many famous entertainers from around the country performed there, entertaining audiences throughout the Taisho and Showa periods. During the Showa period (1926-1989), the theater was almost abandoned due to the spread of television, but elderly people with fond memories of the Yachiyoza Theater initiated a revival campaign. Their efforts bore fruit, and in 1988, the theater was designated a National Important Cultural Property. The theater is open to the public on non-performance days.

Kikuchi Gorge

It is a beautiful gorge with a one-hour walking path. Visitors enjoy walking there and viewing the interesting rocks, river, and waterfalls. Many photography enthusiasts visit this gorge to capture the beautiful scenery, which changes seasonally.

Kikuchi Onsen

An old document written more than 1,000 years ago refers to this onsen. A man noticed an injured deer bathing in a hot spring, and this was the origin of Yamaga Onsen. Yamaga literally means “Mountain Deer.” Yamaga is also known for its lanterns.

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Yamaga Lanterns

This is a traditional artifact unique to Yamaga. It is a lantern made solely of washi (Japanese paper) and glue. In summer, the city holds a festival named after this lantern, the Yamaga Toro Matsuri. It is well known for the dance performed by girls in kimonos, wearing golden or silver lanterns on their heads.

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