Jōruri Live “Sonezaki Shinju” & An Authentic Edo-Inspired Stroll in Ningyocho

A special cultural program combining two separate but complementary experiences in one memorable day in Tokyo.

Overview

First, enjoy a guided stroll through the historic Ningyocho district, an area known for its traditional atmosphere, small shrines, and long-established shops. Your guide will introduce the history and stories of this charming downtown neighborhood before the performance.

After the walk, attend a live Jōruri performance of “Sonezaki Shinju”, one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Chikamatsu Monzaemon, often referred to as the Shakespeare of Japan.

The performance will be presented by Matsuya Nozawa, a distinguished Kabuki Gidayū shamisen performer and a Living National Treasure (Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan). Through powerful narration and music, he brings this tragic love story vividly to life.

By combining a cultural walking tour with an authentic traditional performing arts experience, this event offers a rare opportunity to connect with both the streets and the stage of old Japan.

Key Info

Date: Monday, February 16, 2026

Meeting Point: Suitengu Shrine
Meeting Time: 3:20 PM
Access: 1-minute walk from Suitengumae Station (Hanzomon Line) / 6-minute walk from Ningyocho Station (Hibiya Line)
Tour Fee: ¥6,000 (Adult)

Itinerary

3:20 PM — Meet at Suitengu Shrine

3:20 PM – 3:50 PM — Visit to Suitengu Shrine

3:50 PM — Set off on Edo-inspired stroll around historic Ningyocho with a local guide

5:20 PM – 5:50 PM — Café break & free time near Ningyocho Crossing
Drinks are at your own expense.

6:00 PM — Arrive at the Jōruri performance venue

6:30 PM — Jōruri performance starts

Around 8:00 PM — Performance ends (approx.)

8:30 PM — Group disperse

What’s Included

Live Jōruri performance admission
Guided walk around historic Ningyocho & adjacent areas

Not Included

Transportation to the meeting point
Café break drinks / personal expenses

Highlights

Matsuya Nozawa — Jōruri Live

Matsuya Nozawa is a distinguished shamisen performer and Living National Treasure of Japan. Alongside his stage career, he creates original works known as Creative Jōruri, adapting Japanese folktales and legends into the traditional storytelling style of Jōruri.

Through solo narrative and shamisen performances, he shares the beauty of traditional Japanese music and storytelling with audiences of all ages across Japan.

Suitengu Shrine

Suitengu Shrine is widely known as a place of prayer for safe childbirth and fertility. Its modern shrine buildings stand on a site with deep historical roots dating back to the Edo period.

Ningyocho Cultural Walk

Karakuri Yagura (Mechanical Clock Tower) — a whimsical landmark that reflects Ningyocho’s downtown heritage
Chanoki Shrine — a small, peaceful shrine and a hidden oasis in the city
Koami Shrine — famous for its “money-washing well” and its reputation for good fortune
Amazake Yokocho — a lively street lined with long-established sweet shops
Daimon Street & Suehiro Street — main streets blending old and new local culture

About “Sonezaki Shinju” & Featured Scenes

Sonezaki Shinju is a masterpiece by Chikamatsu Monzaemon, portraying the tragic love of Tokubei and Ohatsu. It remains one of the most important works performed today in Bunraku and Kabuki.

The Temmaya Scene — a turning point where despair begins to close in on the lovers.

The Tenjin Forest Scene — the emotional climax where they pledge their love beyond this world.