At the A1 level, you only need to know that 劇場 (gekijou) means 'theater'. You should learn it as a place you visit, similar to 公園 (kouen - park) or レストラン (resutoran - restaurant). At this stage, focus on the basic pattern: 劇場に行きます (I go to the theater). Don't worry too much about the difference between a movie theater and a play theater yet, but try to remember that 映画館 (eigakan) is for movies and 劇場 is for plays. You might see this word on a city map or a sign. The kanji might look difficult, but the second part is very common in other words you will learn soon, like 'place'. Just think of it as a 'drama place'.
At the A2 level, you can start using 劇場 (gekijou) with more descriptive words and basic particles. You should be able to say things like 大きい劇場 (big theater) or 有名な劇場 (famous theater). You will also learn to use the particle to describe what you do there: 劇場でダンスを見ました (I watched a dance at the theater). This level also introduces the idea of 'theatrical versions' of movies, called 劇場版 (gekijou-ban), which you will often see on posters. You are starting to distinguish between different types of buildings in the city, and 劇場 is a key cultural landmark.
At the B1 level, you should understand the cultural significance of the 劇場 (gekijou). You can discuss your hobbies, such as 'I like going to the theater to see musicals.' You should also be aware of specific famous theaters like the 歌舞伎座 (Kabukiza) and understand that 劇場 is the general category for them. At this level, you can use more complex grammar, such as 劇場に行くのが好きです (I like going to the theater) or 劇場は駅の近くにあります (The theater is near the station). You are also expected to know that 劇場 is specifically for live performances, unlike 映画館. You might start noticing the word in news articles about the arts.
At the B2 level, you can use 劇場 (gekijou) in more abstract and professional contexts. You might talk about the 劇場文化 (theater culture) of Japan or the 劇場経営 (theater management). You should be comfortable with compound words like 小劇場運動 (small theater movement) or 劇場公開 (theatrical release). You can describe the atmosphere of a theater using advanced vocabulary like 厳かな (ogosoka-na - solemn) or 活気のある (kakki no aru - lively). Your understanding of the word should extend to its metaphorical use in politics (劇場型政治). You can also discuss the architectural features of a theater, such as the seating capacity or acoustics.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the nuances of 劇場 (gekijou). You can discuss the evolution of theater spaces from the Edo period to the present day. You understand the distinction between 劇場 and other venues like 寄席 (yose) or 能楽堂 (nougakudou). You can read and analyze critiques that use the word in a sophisticated way, such as discussing the 'tension of the theater space' (劇場の緊張感). You are also familiar with the theater industry's terminology, such as 劇場専属 (theater-exclusive) actors. You can engage in high-level debates about the role of public theaters in society and the subsidies they receive.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 劇場 (gekijou) is native-like. You can appreciate the poetic and literary uses of the word. You understand the subtle connotations it carries in different historical contexts. You can effortlessly switch between formal architectural discussions and casual conversations about local theater scenes. You might even be familiar with obscure historical theaters or specific regional variations of the term. You can interpret how the concept of 劇場 influences Japanese storytelling and public life. Your vocabulary includes highly specialized terms related to theater design, lighting, and stagecraft, all centered around the 劇場 as the heart of the performing arts.

劇場 en 30 segundos

  • 劇場 (gekijou) means 'theater' (the building for live plays).
  • It is different from 映画館 (eigakan), which is for movies.
  • It is a formal word used for professional performing arts venues.
  • Commonly used in compound words like 劇場版 (theatrical version).

The Japanese word 劇場 (げきじょう - gekijou) is a formal and specific noun that translates directly to 'theater' in English. However, unlike the broad English usage which often includes movie theaters, gekijou primarily refers to a physical building or venue designed for live performances, including plays, musicals, opera, kabuki, and dance. It is composed of two kanji: 劇 (geki), meaning 'drama' or 'play', and 場 (jou), meaning 'place' or 'location'. Together, they literally signify a 'place for drama'. In modern Japan, you will encounter this word when discussing high-culture performing arts or when visiting grand venues in cities like Tokyo or Osaka.

Core Nuance
While 'theater' in English can mean the cinema, in Japanese, a movie theater is usually called an 映画館 (eigakan). Using 劇場 implies a stage, live actors, and an audience gathered for a theatrical production.

有名な劇場で新しい芝居が上演されている。
(A new play is being performed at a famous theater.)

Historically, theaters in Japan have evolved from outdoor shrines where Noh was performed to the elaborate indoor structures of the Edo period designed for Kabuki. Today, the word is used for everything from the massive 帝国劇場 (Imperial Theatre) to smaller 'black box' theaters known as 小劇場 (shou-gekijou). The term carries a sense of formality and professional artistry. You wouldn't typically use it for a school auditorium unless it was specifically designated as a theater space. In conversation, if you say you are going to a 劇場, people will assume you are seeing a play or a musical, not the latest Hollywood blockbuster.

Kanji Breakdown
The first kanji (drama) consists of components representing a tiger and a sword, hinting at the intensity and conflict inherent in drama. The second kanji (place) is ubiquitous, appearing in words like 場所 (basho - place) and 工場 (koujou - factory).

In a metaphorical sense, 劇場 can also appear in political or social contexts, such as 劇場型政治 (gekijou-gata seiji), which refers to 'theater-style politics' where political events are staged or dramatized to capture public attention. This highlights the word's association with spectacle and public viewing. Whether you are discussing the architectural beauty of a classical venue or the dramatic flair of a modern performance, 劇場 is the essential term for the home of the performing arts in Japan.

Using 劇場 (gekijou) in a sentence requires an understanding of Japanese particles and the typical verbs associated with venues. Because it is a physical location, it is frequently used with the particles に (ni) for destination, で (de) for the location of an action, and の (no) to show possession or description. For example, if you are going to the theater, you would say 劇場に行く (gekijou ni iku). If you are watching a play inside the theater, you would say 劇場で芝居を見る (gekijou de shibai o miru).

その劇場は一千人を収容できる。
(That theater can accommodate one thousand people.)

When describing the theater, you might use adjectives like 豪華な (gouka-na - luxurious), 歴史ある (rekishi-aru - historic), or 近代的な (kindai-teki-na - modern). For instance, 歴史ある劇場で歌舞伎を鑑賞した (rekishi-aru gekijou de kabuki o kanshou shita) means 'I appreciated Kabuki at a historic theater.' Note the use of 鑑賞 (kanshou), which is a more formal word for 'watching' or 'appreciating' art, fitting the formal tone of 劇場.

Verb Collocations
Common verbs used with 劇場 include: 訪れる (otozureru - to visit), 建設する (kensetsu suru - to construct), 閉鎖する (heisa suru - to close down), and 満員にする (man'in ni suru - to fill to capacity).

In professional contexts, you might hear the term 劇場公開 (gekijou koukai), which refers to a theatrical release of a film or production. Even though a movie is usually shown in an 映画館, the industry term for 'releasing to theaters' often uses 劇場 to lend a sense of scale and prestige. For example, このアニメは来月、劇場公開される (kono anime wa raigetsu, gekijou koukai sareru) means 'This anime will have a theatrical release next month.'

劇場の入り口で待ち合わせましょう。
(Let's meet at the theater entrance.)

Lastly, consider the perspective of the performer. An actor might say 劇場に立つ (gekijou ni tatsu), which literally means 'to stand in the theater' but idiomatically means 'to perform on stage.' This usage emphasizes the venue as the ultimate goal or workplace for a stage professional. By mastering these patterns, you can accurately describe everything from a casual night out to a professional career in the arts.

You will encounter the word 劇場 (gekijou) in various real-life scenarios in Japan, ranging from everyday travel to specialized media. One of the most common places is in urban navigation. Major Japanese cities are home to world-class theaters that serve as landmarks. When riding the subway in Tokyo, you might hear announcements for stations near the 国立劇場 (National Theatre) or the 宝塚大劇場 (Takarazuka Grand Theater). In these cases, the word is part of a proper noun, but it reinforces the concept of the building as a central cultural hub.

次の停車駅は、劇場前です。
(The next stop is in front of the theater.)

In the world of entertainment news and social media, 劇場 is frequently used in the context of 'theatrical versions' of popular TV shows or anime. If a series is getting a big-budget movie adaptation, the phrase 劇場版 (gekijou-ban) is used. Fans of Demon Slayer or One Piece will often see '劇場版' on posters and trailers. Here, the word signifies that the content is of a higher production value intended for the 'big screen' of a theater rather than a home television.

Cultural Context: Kabuki
In traditional arts, the 劇場 is more than a building; it is a sacred space. Words like 歌舞伎座 (Kabukiza) are famous, but general descriptions of these venues always use 劇場 to denote their status as legitimate performance spaces.

You will also hear this word in the context of local community centers. Many Japanese wards (ku) have a 区民劇場 (kumin gekijou) or 'ward citizens' theater,' where local amateur groups perform. While less grand than the Ginza theaters, they are still referred to as 劇場 because they possess a proper stage and seating arrangement. Listening to news reports about the opening or renovation of these facilities will provide ample listening practice for the word.

Finally, in literature and drama reviews, critics often discuss the 劇場空間 (gekijou kuukan) or 'theater space.' They might talk about how a director uses the physical theater to create an immersive experience. For an English speaker, hearing 劇場 in these contexts indicates a shift from casual hobby talk to a more serious discussion about art, architecture, or industry standards.

One of the most frequent mistakes for English speakers learning Japanese is using 劇場 (gekijou) when they actually mean a cinema or movie theater. In English, we often say 'I'm going to the theater' to mean seeing a movie. In Japanese, if you say 劇場に行きます (gekijou ni ikimasu), a Japanese person will likely ask, 'What play are you seeing?' To avoid this confusion, always use 映画館 (eigakan) for movies. The only exception is the 'theatrical version' (劇場版) mentioned earlier, but that is a compound noun, not the word used for the building itself.

❌ 映画を見に劇場へ行く。
✅ 映画を見に映画館へ行く。
(Correct: Go to the cinema to watch a movie.)

Another mistake involves confusing 劇場 with 舞台 (butai). 劇場 is the entire building, including the lobby, seats, and bathrooms. 舞台 refers specifically to the 'stage' where the actors perform. If you want to say 'The actor is on stage,' use 舞台の上にいる (butai no ue ni iru), not 劇場の上にいる (which would mean they are on top of the theater building!).

Confusion with 'Hall'
Many modern venues are called ホール (ho-ru). While a 劇場 is specifically for drama/plays, a ホール is more multi-purpose and often used for concerts or lectures. Using 劇場 for a rock concert venue might sound slightly unnatural unless that venue is specifically a theater.

Pronunciation is another area where learners stumble. The 'ou' in gekijou is a long vowel. If you pronounce it as a short 'o' (geki-jo), it sounds like 'drama girl' or 'drama daughter' (劇女), which isn't a standard word but would certainly confuse a listener. Ensure you extend the final 'o' sound slightly.

Finally, be careful with the formality. 劇場 is quite a heavy, formal word. In very casual conversation about a small local play, some people might just use 芝居小屋 (shibaigoya) for a more traditional, 'shack-like' feel, though this is becoming rare. Stick to 劇場 for most professional contexts, but remember it implies a certain level of grandeur.

While 劇場 (gekijou) is the standard word for theater, Japanese has several synonyms and related terms that are used depending on the specific type of performance or the atmosphere of the venue. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and better understand the variety of Japanese performing arts.

映画館 (Eigakan)
Specifically a movie theater or cinema. This is the most common 'theater' people visit.
Example: 映画館でポップコーンを食べる。 (Eat popcorn at the cinema.)
舞台 (Butai)
Means 'the stage' or 'the setting'. It can also be used to refer to a theatrical production itself.
Example: 彼は舞台俳優です。 (He is a stage actor.)
寄席 (Yose)
A traditional Japanese theater specifically for spoken word arts like Rakugo (comic storytelling).
Example: 寄席で落語を聞く。 (Listen to Rakugo at a Yose theater.)

Another common alternative is the loanword シアター (shiataa). While it means 'theater,' it is often used in the names of modern, smaller, or Western-style venues. For example, 'Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre' is 東京芸術劇場, but a small independent cinema might call itself 'XXXシアター'. The loanword often feels more 'hip' or 'modern' than the traditional 劇場.

そのホールは音響が素晴らしい。
(That hall has wonderful acoustics.)

For musical performances, コンサートホール (konsaato ho-ru) or simply ホール is preferred. If you are going to see a classical music concert, you would rarely say you are going to a 劇場 unless the venue is specifically an opera house. Similarly, ライブハウス (raibu hausu) is used for smaller venues where rock, jazz, or pop bands perform, usually with standing room only.

In summary, choose 劇場 when the focus is on the dramatic art form and the formal building that houses it. If the context is a movie, use 映画館; if it's a concert, use ホール; and if you are talking about the physical platform the actors stand on, use 舞台.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The kanji '劇' (geki) contains the radical for 'tiger' (虎) and 'sword' (刂), which historically suggests the fierce and sharp nature of theatrical conflict.

Guía de pronunciación

UK ɡɛkiːdʒoʊ
US ɡɛkiːdʒoʊ
The pitch usually starts low on 'ge', rises on 'ki', and stays high/level on 'jou'.
Rima con
会場 (kaijou) 工場 (koujou) 市場 (ichijou/shijou) 道場 (doujou) 登場 (toujou) 退場 (taijou) 戦場 (senjou) 屋上 (okujou)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'jou' as a short 'jo' (sounding like 'geki-jo').
  • Mispronouncing 'ge' as 'je'.
  • Confusing the 'ki' with 'gi'.
  • Failing to elongate the final 'o' sound.
  • Adding a 'u' sound at the end like 'geki-jo-oo'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The kanji 劇 is complex but common in arts-related words.

Escritura 4/5

Writing 劇 from memory requires practice due to the many strokes.

Expresión oral 2/5

Simple pronunciation, just remember the long 'ou'.

Escucha 2/5

Easy to distinguish if the long vowel is heard.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

劇 (drama) 場 (place) 映画館 (cinema) 見る (to see) 行く (to go)

Aprende después

上演 (performance) 俳優 (actor) 脚本 (script) 観客 (audience) 舞台 (stage)

Avanzado

演出 (direction) 戯曲 (play/drama) 音響 (acoustics) 照明 (lighting) 道具方 (stagehand)

Gramática que debes saber

Place of Action (Particle 'de')

劇場で芝居を見る。

Destination (Particle 'ni/e')

劇場に行く。

Existence (Particle 'ga aru')

町に劇場がある。

Compound Nouns (Suffixing 劇場)

国立劇場、帝国劇場。

Modifying Nouns with Adjectives

有名な劇場、古い劇場。

Ejemplos por nivel

1

劇場に行きます。

I go to the theater.

Uses the destination particle 'ni'.

2

これは劇場です。

This is a theater.

A simple 'A is B' sentence.

3

劇場はどこですか?

Where is the theater?

Standard question for location.

4

きれいな劇場ですね。

It's a beautiful theater, isn't it?

Uses the adjective 'kirei' and the particle 'ne' for agreement.

5

劇場で会いましょう。

Let's meet at the theater.

Uses 'de' for the location of the meeting.

6

大きな劇場があります。

There is a big theater.

Uses 'ga arimasu' for existence.

7

劇場はあそこです。

The theater is over there.

Uses 'asoko' for 'over there'.

8

劇場が好きです。

I like theaters.

Uses 'ga suki desu' for preference.

1

昨日、友達と劇場へ行きました。

Yesterday, I went to the theater with my friend.

Past tense and 'to' for 'with'.

2

この劇場で有名な芝居を見ます。

I will watch a famous play at this theater.

Uses 'de' for the location of watching.

3

劇場は駅から歩いて五分です。

The theater is a five-minute walk from the station.

Describing distance/time.

4

新しい劇場が町にできました。

A new theater was built in the town.

Uses 'dekita' (was made/completed).

5

劇場のチケットは高いですか?

Are the theater tickets expensive?

Asking about price with 'takai'.

6

劇場の前で写真を撮りました。

I took a photo in front of the theater.

Uses 'mae' (in front of).

7

あの劇場はとても古いです。

That theater is very old.

Using 'furui' (old).

8

劇場の中にレストランがあります。

There is a restaurant inside the theater.

Uses 'naka' (inside).

1

週末に劇場へ行くのを楽しみにしています。

I am looking forward to going to the theater this weekend.

Uses 'no o tanoshimi ni shite imasu'.

2

この劇場は、伝統的な歌舞伎を上演しています。

This theater performs traditional Kabuki.

Uses 'jouen shite iru' (is performing/staging).

3

劇場が満員だったので、チケットが買えませんでした。

The theater was full, so I couldn't buy a ticket.

Uses 'node' for reason and potential negative 'kaemasen deshita'.

4

劇場の音響効果は素晴らしかったです。

The theater's sound effects were wonderful.

Uses 'onkyou kouka' (sound effects).

5

彼は劇場で働くのが夢です。

It is his dream to work at a theater.

Uses 'no ga yume desu'.

6

劇場のロビーでパンフレットをもらいました。

I received a brochure in the theater lobby.

Uses 'moraimashita' (received).

7

雨が降っていたので、劇場までタクシーで行きました。

Since it was raining, I went to the theater by taxi.

Uses 'de' for means of transport.

8

劇場でのマナーを守りましょう。

Let's follow the manners in the theater.

Uses 'mamorimashou' (let's keep/follow).

1

その劇場は、都市再開発プロジェクトの一環として建設された。

The theater was constructed as part of a city redevelopment project.

Passive voice 'kensetsu sareta' and 'ikkan to shite' (as part of).

2

劇場の舞台装置は非常に複雑で、驚かされる。

The theater's stage equipment is extremely complex and surprising.

Uses 'butai souchi' (stage equipment).

3

多くの若手俳優が、その小劇場からキャリアをスタートさせた。

Many young actors started their careers from that small theater.

Uses 'shou-gekijou' (small theater).

4

劇場公開に先立って、試写会が行われた。

Prior to the theatrical release, a preview screening was held.

Uses 'ni sakidatte' (prior to).

5

劇場の経営状態が悪化し、閉鎖の危機に追い込まれている。

The theater's business condition worsened, and it is being forced into a crisis of closure.

Uses 'keiei joutai' (management state) and 'oikomarete iru' (is being forced).

6

その劇場の建築様式は、近現代の美学を反映している。

The architectural style of that theater reflects modern aesthetics.

Uses 'kenchiku youshiki' (architectural style).

7

劇場側は、観客の安全を最優先に考えている。

The theater side considers the safety of the audience as the top priority.

Uses 'gawa' (side) and 'sai-yuusen' (top priority).

8

この劇場は、単なる娯楽施設ではなく、文化交流の場でもある。

This theater is not just an entertainment facility, but also a place for cultural exchange.

Uses 'tannaru...de wa naku' (not just...).

1

劇場の空間設計が、演者と観客の間に独特の一体感を生み出している。

The spatial design of the theater creates a unique sense of unity between the performers and the audience.

Uses 'kuukan sekkei' (spatial design) and 'ittaikan' (sense of unity).

2

公共劇場としての役割を果たすため、多様なプログラムを提供している。

In order to fulfill its role as a public theater, it offers a diverse range of programs.

Uses 'koukyou gekijou' (public theater) and 'yakuwari o hatasu' (to fulfill a role).

3

その作品は、劇場という枠組みを超えた実験的な試みであった。

The work was an experimental attempt that went beyond the framework of a theater.

Uses 'wakugumi' (framework) and 'jikken-teki' (experimental).

4

劇場の老朽化に伴い、大規模な改修工事が必要となっている。

With the aging of the theater, large-scale renovation work has become necessary.

Uses 'roukyuuka' (aging/deterioration) and 'ni tomonai' (along with).

5

劇場文化の衰退を防ぐために、政府の支援が不可欠だ。

Government support is indispensable to prevent the decline of theater culture.

Uses 'suitai' (decline) and 'fuketsu' (indispensable).

6

劇場の専属劇団が、長年にわたり質の高い舞台を創り続けている。

The theater's exclusive acting company has continued to create high-quality stage productions for many years.

Uses 'senzoku gekidan' (exclusive troupe).

7

劇場型の演出が、観客の感情を巧みに揺さぶる。

The theater-style direction skillfully stirs the audience's emotions.

Uses 'enshutsu' (direction/production) and 'yusaburu' (to shake/stir).

8

劇場の記憶は、その街の歴史そのものと言っても過言ではない。

It is no exaggeration to say that the memory of the theater is the history of the city itself.

Uses 'itte mo kagon de wa nai' (it is no exaggeration to say).

1

劇場の静謐な空気の中に、開演を待つ観客の期待が凝縮されている。

In the serene air of the theater, the expectation of the audience waiting for the curtain to rise is condensed.

Uses 'seihitsu' (serene) and 'gyoushuku' (condensed).

2

劇場のパトロンたちは、芸術の振興のために多額の寄付を行っている。

The theater patrons make large donations for the promotion of the arts.

Uses 'patoron' (patron) and 'shinkou' (promotion).

3

その劇場は、かつての社交の場としての華やかさを今に伝えている。

The theater still conveys the glamour of what used to be a place for social gathering.

Uses 'shakou no ba' (social gathering place) and 'hanayaka-sa' (glamour).

4

劇場という虚構の空間において、真実が浮き彫りにされることがある。

In the fictional space of the theater, the truth is sometimes brought into sharp relief.

Uses 'kyokou' (fiction) and 'ukibori' (brought into relief).

5

劇場の音響設計は、物理学と芸術が交差する極めて繊細な領域だ。

Theater acoustic design is an extremely delicate field where physics and art intersect.

Uses 'kousa suru' (to intersect) and 'ryouiki' (field/domain).

6

劇場の舞台裏では、無数のスタッフが秒単位の作業に追われている。

Backstage at the theater, countless staff members are busy with tasks timed to the second.

Uses 'butaiura' (backstage) and 'byou-tan'i' (second-by-second).

7

劇場の歴史を紐解けば、その時代の社会情勢が鮮明に見えてくる。

If you unravel the history of the theater, the social conditions of that era become clearly visible.

Uses 'himotokeba' (if you unravel/read) and 'shajou jousei' (social conditions).

8

劇場は、人間の喜怒哀楽を増幅させる魔法の装置と言えるだろう。

The theater could be called a magical device that amplifies human emotions.

Uses 'kidoairaku' (human emotions) and 'zoufuku' (amplify).

Colocaciones comunes

劇場に行く
劇場で見る
劇場を建設する
劇場が満員だ
劇場公開
国立劇場
小劇場
劇場文化
劇場空間
劇場の入り口

Frases Comunes

劇場版

— Theatrical version (usually of an anime or TV drama).

このアニメの劇場版は来月公開です。

劇場型

— Theater-style; dramatic or staged in a way to attract attention.

劇場型政治が話題になっている。

劇場主

— The owner or manager of a theater.

彼は有名な劇場の劇場主だ。

劇場案内

— Theater guide or information.

劇場の案内を見て席を確認する。

劇場設備

— Theater facilities or equipment.

この劇場は設備が整っている。

劇場料金

— Theater admission fee.

劇場料金は作品によって異なる。

劇場街

— Theater district.

ブロードウェイは世界一の劇場街だ。

劇場予約

— Theater reservation.

劇場の予約をオンラインでする。

劇場鑑賞

— Watching a performance at a theater.

劇場鑑賞は特別な体験だ。

劇場関係者

— People involved in the theater industry.

劇場関係者がロビーに集まっている。

Se confunde a menudo con

劇場 vs 映画館

English 'theater' covers both, but Japanese splits them. Use 映画館 for movies.

劇場 vs 舞台

劇場 is the building; 舞台 is the stage platform.

劇場 vs 劇団

劇場 is the place; 劇団 is the group of people (troupe).

Modismos y expresiones

"劇場に立つ"

— To perform on stage; to be a professional stage actor.

いつかあの大きな劇場に立ちたい。

Professional
"劇場を沸かせる"

— To thrill the audience; to cause a sensation in the theater.

彼の演技は劇場を沸かせた。

Neutral
"劇場を後にする"

— To leave the theater (often after a performance).

感動を胸に、劇場を後にした。

Literary
"人生は劇場だ"

— Life is like a play or a theater (life is dramatic).

シェイクスピアは、人生は劇場だと言った。

Philosophical
"劇場が震える"

— The theater trembles (used when applause or music is extremely loud/powerful).

拍手で劇場が震えた。

Emotive
"劇場の花"

— The 'flower' of the theater (a star actor or a beautiful performance).

彼女はまさに劇場の花だ。

Poetic
"劇場に足を運ぶ"

— To make the effort to go to the theater.

多くの人が劇場に足を運んでくれた。

Polite
"劇場を揺さぶる"

— To shake the theater (emotionally or physically with sound).

力強い歌声が劇場を揺さぶった。

Neutral
"劇場の魔物"

— The 'demon' of the theater (a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of live performance).

劇場には魔物が住んでいると言われる。

Theatrical Lore
"劇場を守る"

— To protect or maintain a theater (often against closure).

地元の人が古い劇場を守り続けている。

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

劇場 vs 会場

Both mean 'venue' or 'place'.

会場 is a general venue for any event (meeting, party, concert). 劇場 is specifically for drama.

結婚式の会場 (Wedding venue) vs 劇場の舞台 (Theater stage).

劇場 vs ホール

Many theaters are called 'Halls'.

Halls are often multi-purpose. 劇場 implies a dramatic focus.

音楽ホール (Music hall) vs 芸術劇場 (Arts theater).

劇場 vs 寄席

Both are theaters for performances.

寄席 is specifically for traditional storytelling like Rakugo.

寄席で落語を聞く。

劇場 vs シネマ

Loanword for cinema.

Used specifically for movie theaters, similar to 映画館.

シネマコンプレックス (Cineplex).

劇場 vs スタジアム

Large venue.

Used for sports and massive concerts, not drama.

野球のスタジアム (Baseball stadium).

Patrones de oraciones

A1

[Place] に 行きます。

劇場に行きます。

A2

[Place] で [Action] を します。

劇場で芝居を見ます。

B1

[Noun] の [Noun]

劇場のチケットを買いました。

B2

[Noun] と しての [Noun]

劇場としての機能。

C1

[Noun] に 伴い、[Result]

劇場の老朽化に伴い、閉鎖された。

C2

[Noun] と 言っても 過言ではない

劇場の歴史は街の歴史と言っても過言ではない。

B1

[Verb-dictionary] のが 好きです

劇場に行くのが好きです。

A2

[Adjective] [Noun] です

きれいな劇場です。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

演劇 (engeki - drama)
劇団 (gekidan - troupe)
脚本 (kyakuhon - script)
観客 (kankyaku - audience)

Verbos

劇化する (gekika suru - to dramatize)
上演する (jouen suru - to perform)

Adjetivos

劇的な (gekiteki-na - dramatic)

Relacionado

舞台 (butai)
俳優 (haiyuu)
幕 (maku)
照明 (shoumei)
音響 (onkyou)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in urban areas and cultural discussions.

Errores comunes
  • Using 劇場 for a movie theater. 映画館 (eigakan)

    In Japanese, 劇場 is for live performances. 映画館 is for movies.

  • Pronouncing it 'geki-jo'. geki-jou

    The final 'o' must be long. Shortening it changes the sound significantly.

  • Saying 劇場の上にいる to mean 'on stage'. 舞台の上にいる

    劇場 refers to the building. 舞台 refers to the stage platform.

  • Confusing 劇場 with 劇団. 劇場 (place), 劇団 (troupe)

    Make sure to use the correct suffix for 'place' (jou) or 'group' (dan).

  • Using 劇場 for a rock concert venue. ライブハウス (raibu hausu)

    Rock concerts are usually in 'live houses' or 'halls', not 'theaters' (gekijou).

Consejos

Traditional vs. Modern

Japan has different words for traditional theaters. For example, a Noh theater is a 能楽堂 (nougakudou). 劇場 is a great general term, but specific arts have specific names for their homes.

Compound Words

You can add 劇場 to many words to create new meanings. For example, 国立 (national) + 劇場 = 国立劇場 (National Theatre).

Don't confuse with 劇団

劇団 (gekidan) means 'acting troupe'. People often mix them up because they both start with 劇. Remember: 劇場 = Place, 劇団 = Group.

Long Vowel Practice

Practice saying 'ge-ki-joo' with a long 'o'. This long 'o' is common in many Japanese words ending in 'jou' (place).

Radical Recognition

Recognizing the 'place' radical (土 - earth) in 場 (jou) will help you remember that it refers to a physical location.

Finding Your Way

If you see 劇場 on a sign in a Japanese city, expect a grand building with posters for plays or musicals.

Meeting Place

The area in front of a 劇場 is a very common meeting spot (待ち合わせ場所) because theaters are usually large and easy to find.

Anime Titles

When you see an anime title followed by 劇場版, it means it's the movie version. This is a very frequent usage in modern pop culture.

Stroke Order

The kanji 劇 is quite complex. Focus on learning the stroke order for the left side first, then the right side (sword).

Specific venues

In Japan, many theaters have the word '座' (za) in their name, like 歌舞伎座. Even so, you can still refer to them generally as a 劇場.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Gekijou: Think of a 'Geek' (Geki) going to a 'Joe' (Jou) theater. Or: 'Geki' (drama) happens at the 'Jou' (place).

Asociación visual

Imagine a grand red curtain (drama - Geki) opening in a massive building (place - Jou).

Word Web

Stage Curtain Actors Audience Tickets Drama Music Lights

Desafío

Try to find three famous 劇場 in Japan using a search engine and write their names in Japanese.

Origen de la palabra

The word is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango). '劇' (geki) comes from Middle Chinese and refers to drama or intense action. '場' (jou) also comes from Middle Chinese and means an open space or a place where people gather.

Significado original: A place where dramatic actions or plays are performed.

Japonic (Sino-Japanese roots).

Contexto cultural

No major sensitivities, but when visiting a traditional theater, be mindful of specific etiquette (e.g., when to applaud during Kabuki).

In English, 'theater' is often ambiguous (movie vs. play). In Japanese, 劇場 is specific and prestigious.

Kabukiza (Tokyo) Takarazuka Grand Theater (Hyogo) Minamiza (Kyoto)

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Travel/Tourism

  • 劇場の場所を教えてください。
  • この近くに劇場はありますか?
  • 有名な劇場に行きたいです。
  • 劇場の地図をください。

Hobbies/Entertainment

  • 劇場で芝居を見るのが好きです。
  • 劇場のチケットを予約しました。
  • どの劇場で上演されますか?
  • 劇場の雰囲気が好きです。

News/Media

  • 劇場版の公開日が決まりました。
  • 新しい劇場がオープンしました。
  • 劇場の閉鎖が発表されました。
  • 劇場でのイベントが行われます。

Business/Industry

  • 劇場経営は難しいです。
  • 劇場設備を新しくします。
  • 劇場関係者と打ち合わせをします。
  • 劇場公開の戦略を立てます。

Architecture/Design

  • 劇場の音響設計は完璧です。
  • 劇場の座席数はどれくらいですか?
  • 劇場の外観がユニークです。
  • 劇場の改修が必要です。

Inicios de conversación

"最近、劇場で何か見ましたか? (Have you seen anything at the theater recently?)"

"一番好きな劇場はどこですか? (Where is your favorite theater?)"

"劇場で芝居を見るのと、映画館で映画を見るの、どちらが好きですか? (Do you prefer watching plays at the theater or movies at the cinema?)"

"日本の伝統的な劇場(歌舞伎座など)に行ったことがありますか? (Have you ever been to a traditional Japanese theater like Kabukiza?)"

"劇場版のアニメで、おすすめはありますか? (Do you have any recommendations for theatrical anime movies?)"

Temas para diario

今日、劇場で見た芝居の感想を書いてください。 (Write your impressions of the play you saw at the theater today.)

理想の劇場のデザインについて説明してください。 (Describe your ideal theater design.)

あなたが俳優だったら、どんな劇場で演じたいですか? (If you were an actor, what kind of theater would you want to perform in?)

地元の劇場の歴史について調べて書いてみましょう。 (Research and write about the history of a local theater.)

劇場という空間が人々に与える影響について考えてください。 (Think about the impact that the theater space has on people.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Usually no. While 'theater' in English often means cinema, in Japanese, 劇場 specifically refers to live performance venues. For movies, use 映画館 (eigakan). However, 'theatrical version' of a movie is called 劇場版 (gekijou-ban).

It is written as 劇場. The first kanji (劇) means drama, and the second (場) means place. It has a total of 27 strokes (15 + 12).

Yes, it is the standard and somewhat formal term. For very casual talk about a small, local, or old-fashioned playhouse, some might say 芝居小屋 (shibaigoya).

小劇場 (shou-gekijou) refers to smaller, often independent venues with fewer seats. They are famous in Japan for hosting experimental or avant-garde plays and are where many famous actors start their careers.

Only if the concert is held in a building that is primarily a theater. Otherwise, use ホール (ho-ru) or ライブハウス (raibu hausu) for music venues.

劇場 is the whole building (the theater). 舞台 (butai) is specifically the stage where the performance happens.

It means 'theatrical version'. It is used for movies that are based on anime or TV series and are released in theaters.

Yes, many! Some of the most famous are the Kabukiza (for Kabuki), the Imperial Theatre (Teigeki), and the National Theatre.

You can say 劇場へ (gekijou e) or 劇場に (gekijou ni).

Yes, very! It is a long vowel. If you say it short, it sounds like a different word or just incorrect.

Ponte a prueba 157 preguntas

writing

Write 'I went to the theater' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'The theater is big' in Japanese.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronounce the word '劇場' correctly.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify the word: [Audio of 'Gekijou']

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writing

Translate: 'Let's meet in front of the theater.'

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writing

Translate: 'The theater was very crowded.'

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writing

Translate: 'I work at a theater.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Theatrical version' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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listening

What place is being described? 'A place with a stage and actors.'

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writing

Translate: 'This is a famous theater.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write 'Theater ticket' in Japanese.

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writing

Translate: 'Is there a theater near here?'

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writing

Translate: 'The theater is full of people.'

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writing

Translate: 'I am going to the theater now.'

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speaking

Say 'I love the theater' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Which word sounds like 'drama place'?

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writing

Translate: 'That theater is historic.'

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writing

Translate: 'The theater is beautiful.'

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writing

Translate: 'Where is the theater entrance?'

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speaking

Say 'Theater management' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Identify the word: [Audio of 'Gekijou-ban']

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writing

Translate: 'I bought a theater ticket.'

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writing

Translate: 'The theater was big and beautiful.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I am waiting in front of the theater.'

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speaking

Say 'Theatrical release' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Identify the word: [Audio of 'Gekijou de aimashou']

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/ 157 correct

Perfect score!

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