Kabuki is a part of traditional Japanese culture that has influenced people all over the world. “Star Wars” director, George Lucas, supposedly got the inspiration for the villain Darth Maul from kabuki makeup. It’s also said to have inspired the look for the famous rock band, KISS. Now, it's your turn to get a makeover.

If you have any reservations about putting on kabuki makeup, you can rest easy. You can release your inhibitions and become a completely different person!
There’s no need to change or do anything else. After your face is done, you can immediately head out into town, into the busy commercial district of Namba, Osaka. You’ll no doubt be getting plenty of looks. Are you ready? The time has come for a new kabuki star to be born.

The colored lines are meant to represent blood vessels. The makeup application process takes about 30 minutes total.

After the makeup is done, your guide will take you to and show you around Osaka’s commercial district. You’ll no doubt become the center of attention! Go around to some of the famous sights and pose for the camera.

Nestled in the center of Namba, is a place called Hozenji Yokocho. It’s a popular area full of history, known for its unique look and the temple that bears the same name.

Namba’s liveliest tourist spot is undoubtedly Dotonbori. This place will also serve as the stage for you to make the rise to kabuki stardom. Take memorable pictures on Ebisu Bridge with the famous Glico Man behind you. Strike that pose and show everyone the dream collaboration between kabuki and Glico.

After Dotonbori, you’ll head next to America Mura in Shinsaibashi. America Mura has lots of clothing and old record stores. The place is popular among the younger crowd. Here, in the park, your guide will make an impression of your makeup on a piece of cloth, which you can take home as a souvenir.

Also, in front of the park is a famous takoyaki place, where you can try the iconic Osakan specialty.

▼Takoyaki, battered balls with octopus filling.

After removing the makeup and having had some food, you can end things with a public bath experience. It’s a great way to relax away the fatigue and see another part of Japanese culture. It’s entirely optional, so if public baths aren’t your thing, that’s not a problem. You can end things off with some shopping in the area.

▼Typical entrance to baths.