Japanese Kabuki Theater Magazine (Kabuki Shinpō) - 1879 to 1897 CE - Meiji Japan

Each purchase includes ONE issue, measuring approximately 9 x 6 inches.

These original Japanese volumes are bound issues of Kabuki Shinpō (歌舞伎新報, "Kabuki News"), a popular theatrical magazine published in Tokyo from 1879 to 1897, during the Meiji era. This was a period of enormous change in Japan, as new technologies, newspapers, photography, and a growing print culture emerged alongside longstanding traditions like kabuki.

Kabuki Shinpō captured the theater world as it unfolded from the perspective of the audience, with plot summaries, serialized scripts, actor news, and reviewer reports. For the layman, it offered an affordable way to engage with kabuki performances and beloved actors beyond the stage.

The magazine expanded that experience with black and white woodblock-printed illustrations, depicting actors and scenes from performances. Some also featured a page of color printing to bring elaborate costumes and characters to life.

Still preserved with traditional Japanese punch binding, these books offer a tangible glimpse into the fabulous world of kabuki in Meiji-era Japan.

Each item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.