JEDDAH: The Consulate-General of Japan in Jeddah commemorated the 70th anniversary of Japan-Saudi Arabia diplomatic relations on Wednesday with an authentic Japanese cultural experience featuring a traditional Kabuki performance.
The event took place at the innovative teamLab Borderless museum in Jeddah’s Historic Area.
In an interview with Arab News, Japan’s Consul-General in Jeddah Daisuke Yamamoto, said that the relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia was in a dynamic phase of development. While historically rooted in the trade of oil and gas, he noted that the partnership had evolved significantly.
“In the past, the relationship mainly revolved around trade in oil and gas. However, it has now become much more diverse,” Yamamoto said.
“Our cooperation includes areas such as petrochemicals, automobiles and car manufacturing, medical equipment and power plant construction — where Japanese companies contribute significantly across Saudi Arabia. Japanese companies are also involved in power plant maintenance and water desalination projects.”
He added: “We are expecting even more diversification, particularly in the cultural field.”
This year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and Saudi Arabia, established in 1955. To celebrate this milestone, a traditional Japanese performance group was brought to the Kingdom for the first time.
Yamamoto explained: “We have brought a classical Japanese performance group — Kabuki — to Saudi Arabia for the first time. We chose the teamLab Borderless as the venue because it symbolizes the collaboration between Japan and Saudi Arabia. The museum itself is one of the most technologically advanced, using lighting and projection to create art. It’s a wonderful place to showcase a traditional Japanese performance using modern visual effects.”
The ceremony was attended by a select audience of consul generals, friends of the Japanese consulate and media representatives.
The performance took place in the museum’s grand “Waterfall Hall,” where immersive digital art installations flowed in harmony with music. During the show, the background came alive with visuals of flying birds, cascading waterfalls and blooming sunflowers.
Kento Watanabe, the show’s producer, addressed the audience before the performance: “We flew from Tokyo, Japan for 20 hours to come to Jeddah. Thank you for inviting us for this very special day. What you are about to see is one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional performing arts.”
The Kabuki performance was led by Hayato Nakamura, a rising star from a distinguished Kabuki family. Known for his expressive acting and elegant stage presence, Nakamura brought both classical rigor and modern appeal to the stage.
He embodied the legendary lion spirit in “Shakkyo” (The Stone Bridge), captivating the audience with dynamic movements, elaborate costumes and striking facial expressions, his vigorous mane swinging as he portrayed strength and fury. Nakamura greeted the audience, expressing his excitement at performing in Saudi Arabia for such a momentous occasion.
The musical crew featured Mitsuyoshi Sasaki II, who masterfully played the tsugaru shamisen, a three-stringed lute from northern Japan. Drummers Taisei Otoma and Hikaru Ishii added depth to the performance with the powerful rhythms of traditional wadaiko drums. On stage, Nakamura applied the iconic white Kabuki makeup, accentuating dramatic eyes and features.
What is Kabuki?
Kabuki is a classical Japanese theatrical art form dating back more than 400 years. Renowned for its vivid storytelling, stylized gestures, ornate costumes and bold makeup, Kabuki emerged during Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868) as a form of popular entertainment. Today, it stands as a sophisticated performance tradition blending drama, dance and music.
In 2008, UNESCO inscribed Kabuki on its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural and artistic importance.
Despite its deep historical roots, Kabuki continues to evolve, incorporating modern elements — including contemporary music and advanced stage technologies — ensuring the art form remains relevant to new generations while preserving its classical essence.
The Kabuki show in Jeddah was presented privately to diplomats and invited guests, but will continue to run for the public until Nov. 6, between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at teamLab Borderless Jeddah.
