Accompanied by impressive stage effects set up using techniques ranging from those used in Kabuki plays to the latest technologies, GEAR is bound to offer you a theatrical experience you will never forget! A long-running show, the first of its kind in Japan, GEAR is contemporary non-verbal entertainment that combines a superb cast with high technology to tell a story for all humankind about the power of touch. Set in a broken toy factory in the future, robot workers encounter a doll that comes to life, taking them on a journey to discover their humanity… With an engaging story and lovable characters, GEAR has shown through its continuing ten-year run a phenomenal level of acclaim from a wide range of audience members, encompassing overseas visitors to retirees, toddlers to adult professionals. In Japan, they say “ask the ancients to know of the present,” and the Kyoto spirit looks to a rich history of innovation in order to create the new for tomorrow. The unique beauty of Kyoto is due to this mindset, and GEAR is developed with this philosophy: world-class talents in contemporary stage arts incorporate Kabuki theatre stage and acting techniques, combining seamlessly with technology for a captivating experience.

Experience the historic Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto. Famous for its late-blooming Omuro sakura cherry trees and a five-story pagoda, Ninna-ji was founded in 888 AD. It is the main temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and it houses countless national treasures and cultural artifacts. Appreciate the beauty of nature at Ninna-ji Temple throughout the year. Discover the striking beauty of the Omuro Pilgrimage course. This two-hour course is a shorter version of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the changing seasons.  In spring, witness the late-blooming cherry blossoms. Summertime sees many priests in the temple for Buddhist ceremonies. In the fall, the historic temple buildings are enveloped in vivid shades of red and yellow. And in winter, enjoy the serene Japanese garden after it has snowed.  You can even soak up the gorgeous snowy scenery of the Goten Palace. 

Immerse yourself in a land of Japanese films and TV at Toei Kyoto Studio Park. Walk through outdoor sets that have been rebuilt from the Edo period and enjoy the atmosphere of ancient Japan by walking on Cinema Road. Seize the possibility to watch a show or movie being filmed. Receive your ticket and step into the fascinating world of Jidaigeki, Japanese historical dramas. Take incredible pictures with old Kyoto as the background and enjoy entertaining attractions for kids and film fans. Experience the world of the Kamen Riders at Super Sentai × Kamen Rider Hero Land. Browse through the exhibition of Super Sentai and Pretty Cure and take part in the character events that are held on weekends. Transform yourself into a samurai or ninja of the Edo period by renting movie costumes and makeup at an extra cost.

Immense yourself into Japanese art performance at The Minamiza Theater. The Minamiza Theater was founded in early Edo-period (1596-1615) at the same location today and Kabuki, Japanese classical drama and dance performance, was loved by locals since then. The Minamiza Theater has undergone several large-scale renovations but has maintained its appearance as a Japanese traditional building. The Minamiza Theater was designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property and Structure of Historical Design of Kyoto in 1996. KABUKI has been performed in this Minamiza Theater for over 400 years and you can feel the origin of KABUKI here. Kabuki is one of Japan's traditional performing arts that is also widely appreciated by theatre lovers around the world. Just sit back and enjoy the performance on stage accompanied by the beautiful live music in this historic building.