We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. If you continue to browse, you accept the use of cookies on our site. See our Privacy Policy for more information.

Must-See Art and Cultural Hotspots in Japan

Art Festivals & Events

Tokyo Opera Days

The Tokyo Nikikai Opera Foundation will hold a variety of opera events inside and outside the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan over the next three years, starting in 2023, with a focus on opera performances at the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan each fall. Embracing the catchphrase "Fall in Ueno is for Opera!", we've designed an array of events not only for a Japanese audience but also for guests from overseas. We warmly invite you to visit the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan this October.

Tokyo Nikikai Opera Theatre Presents:

At the Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, a revered venue for opera performances, apart from experiencing the production of "Don Carlo," there's much more to look forward to. Catch a screening of "Madama Butterfly", directed by Amon Miyamoto, featuring costumes by the world-famous late designer, Kenzo Takada. Unique events, like backstage tours, including admission free events, are also on the agenda.

Main event:

The Tokyo Nikikai Opera Theatre's "Don Carlo" features Leonardo Sini, the young maestro currently leading Europe's operatic scene. With accolades from iconic institutions like Opéra national de Paris and Opernhaus Zürich, and recent triumphs including "La Traviata" at Semperoper Dresden and "L'elisir d'amore" at Staatsoper Berlin, Sini's return to Japan is eagerly anticipated. Renowned director and Volksoper Wien's artistic director, Lotte de Beer, alongside future opera stars, promise a captivating performance.

Left : Stage Director Lotte de Beer / Right : Conductor Leonardo Sini

[Main Hall]:

Priority for reservations-"Maria by Callas" movie screening (9th at 16:00)
Priority for reservations-Screening of Opera "Madama Butterfly" directed by Amon Miyamoto (9th at 18:30)
Admission free-Pre-talk session with director Lotte de Beer (13th at 17:15; exclusive for the opera ticket holders on 13th)
Requires a fee-"Let's Sing" event (14th at 10:00) \5,000
Admission free-Backstage tours (14th post-performance in Japanese and 15th at 10:15 with English Translation: exclusive for the opera ticket holders)

Left : Tokyo Nikikai Opera Theatre "Madama Butterfly" directed by Amon Miyamoto / Right : Stage Director Amon Miyamoto

[Main Hall Foyer]:

Admission free-Maria Callas Exhibition @Tokyo Opera Days(Doors open at 17:00 on the 9th, continues until 15th) *13th to 15th, exclusive for the opera ticket holders
Requires a fee-Workshop on traditional Japanese attire and movements (10th at 14:00) \5,000
Admission free-Screening of Opera "Madama Butterfly" directed by Amon Miyamoto (10th to 12th)

[Recital Hall]:

Priority for reservations-Master Class by conductor Leonardo Sini (9th at 19:00)
Requires a fee-Lecture by Stage Director Amon Miyamoto (10th at 11:00) \1,000
Requires a fee-Ueno de Classic (12th at 11:00; Hosted by Tokyo Bunka Kaikan)

[Canopy (The entrance facing National Museum of Western Art)]:

Admission free-JIKUKAN EMAKI, "Madama Butterfly" (11th and 12th at 17:00)
Admission free-Tokyo Nikikai x National Noh Theatre Collaboration Event (12th at 13:00)
Admission free-Classical Music in Town (9th at 10:30/11:30; Hosted by Tokyo Bunka Kaikan)

Dine & Delight:
Throughout the festival, the Restaurant Forestier on Tokyo Bunka Kaikan’s 2nd floor will feature a special "Don Carlo" inspired menu. *Reservation required by phone: +81-3-3821-9151

JIKUKAN EMAKI "Madama Butterfly"