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Statue of Otojiro Kawakami: A Theatrical Tribute

A tribute to Otojiro Kawakami, the father of modern Japanese theater, located in the vibrant Kamikawabatamachi district of Fukuoka.

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This statue commemorates Otojiro Kawakami, a Fukuoka native and pioneer of modern Japanese theater, blending Western elements with Japanese performance. Located near the Kawabata Shopping Arcade, it's a tribute to his legacy as a performer, political activist, and innovator.

A brief summary to Statue of Otojiro Kawakami

  • 12 Kamikawabatamachi, Fukuoka, Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0026, JP

Local tips

  • Visit the statue in conjunction with a stroll through the Kawabata Shopping Arcade to experience the blend of history and modern Fukuoka.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the statue's intricate craftsmanship and reflect on Kawakami's role in shaping Japanese theater.
  • Explore nearby local shops and eateries to immerse yourself in the culture of the Kamikawabatamachi area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nakasu-Kawabata Station, take Exit 1. Walk straight towards the river, turn left, and walk along the riverside for about 10 minutes until you reach Kamikawabatamachi Street. The statue is located in a small park area near the main road. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Hakata Station, take the Kuko Line (Airport Line) to Nakasu-Kawabata Station. The ride is approximately 5 minutes. From Nakasu-Kawabata Station, follow the walking directions. Subway fare from Hakata Station to Nakasu-Kawabata is around ¥200-250 for adults.

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Discover more about Statue of Otojiro Kawakami

The Statue of Otojiro Kawakami stands as a tribute to a man who significantly shaped the landscape of modern Japanese theater. Born in Fukuoka in 1864, Kawakami was a multifaceted figure: an actor, comedian, political activist, and impresario. He is remembered for his role in introducing Western theatrical elements to Japan, and for taking Japanese performances to the West. The statue itself is located in Kamikawabatamachi, near the entrance to the historic Kawabata Shopping Arcade. This area provides a vibrant backdrop, blending the statue's historical significance with the energy of modern Fukuoka. Kawakami's story is one of innovation and cultural exchange. He began his career as a political activist, using the stage to express his views. His performances, often satirical, gained widespread popularity, with his song 'Oppekepe-bushi' becoming a national sensation. Together with his wife, the actress Sadayakko, Kawakami established a theater troupe that toured both Japan and the West. They introduced adapted versions of Western plays to Japanese audiences and contributed to a greater role for women in Japanese society. Kawakami's legacy includes the establishment of the Imperial Actress Training Institute and the Imperial Theater in Osaka. The statue serves as a reminder of his contributions to Japanese theater and his impact on the cultural landscape of Fukuoka and beyond.

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