Kokuho (2025)
An epic Japanese drama tracing two young men's lifelong devotion to the ancient art of kabuki theatre.
Kokuho - Movie Information
- Original Title: 国宝
- Release Year: 2025
- Directed by: Sang-il Lee
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 2h 54m
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 6, 2025 (Japan - PG12), February 20, 2026 (United States - NR), February 6, 2026 (Canada - 14A), April 3, 2026 (United Kingdom), March 26, 2026 (Germany - 12), December 24, 2025 (France - 12), December 10, 2025 (Australia - M), March 5, 2026 (Brazil - 14), April 30, 2026 (Italy), November 19, 2025 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Kokuho (JP), קוקוהו (IL), สมบัติชาติ (TH), 國寶 (HK), Kokuhō (AU), 국보 (KR), Kokuho (BR), كوكوهو (SA)
- Production Companies: TOHO, Aniplex, Myriagon Studio, CREDEUS, AMUSE, Lawson
- Production Countries: Japan
Kokuho - Plot
Nagasaki, 1964: Following the death of his yakuza father, 15-year-old Kikuo is taken under the wing of a famous kabuki actor. Alongside Shunsuke, the actor's only son, he decides to dedicate himself to this traditional form of theatre. For decades, the two young men grow and evolve together – and one will become the greatest Japanese master of the art of kabuki.
Kokuho - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the world of kabuki come to life:
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Kokuho - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Sang-il Lee
Main Cast
- Ryo Yoshizawa
- Ryusei Yokohama
- Mitsuki Takahata
- Shinobu Terajima
- Soya Kurokawa
- Keitatsu Koshiyama
- Min Tanaka
- Ken Watanabe
- Nana Mori
- Takahiro Miura
Writers
- Satoko Okudera
Producers
- Shinzô Matsuhashi
Kokuho - FAQs
What is Kokuho about?
Kokuho follows Kikuo, a 15-year-old boy from Nagasaki who, after losing his yakuza father, is taken in by a legendary kabuki actor. Alongside the actor's son Shunsuke, he devotes his life to kabuki. The film spans decades, tracing their intertwined journey toward mastery and rivalry in traditional Japanese theatre.
Where can I watch Kokuho?
Kokuho is a theatrical release. You can check current streaming availability and all viewing options for your region — including any digital rental or purchase platforms — on JustWatch. The film opened in Japan in June 2025 and is set for wider international release throughout 2026.
Is Kokuho based on a true story?
Kokuho is not based on a single true story. It is adapted from Jiro Asada's acclaimed novel of the same name, which is a work of fiction. However, the film is deeply rooted in the real traditions, history, and cultural significance of kabuki theatre in Japan, lending it a strong sense of authenticity.
Who are the main actors in Kokuho?
Kokuho stars Ryo Yoshizawa as the adult Kikuo Tachibana and Ryusei Yokohama as Shunsuke Ogaki. Soya Kurokawa and Keitatsu Koshiyama portray the characters in their youth. The cast also includes Mitsuki Takahata, Shinobu Terajima, Min Tanaka, and Ken Watanabe in key supporting roles.
Does Kokuho have a post-credits scene?
There is no widely reported post-credits scene in Kokuho. As a prestige Japanese drama focused on character and tradition rather than franchise storytelling, the film concludes with its main narrative. Viewers are advised to stay through the credits to appreciate the closing moments and music.
Who directed Kokuho and what is the runtime?
Kokuho was directed by Sang-il Lee, a filmmaker known for ambitious, character-driven Japanese cinema. The film has a runtime of 2 hours and 54 minutes, reflecting its epic scope as it follows two kabuki performers across multiple decades of artistic dedication and personal rivalry.
What is the age rating for Kokuho?
Kokuho is rated NR (Not Rated) in the United States. In Japan it carries a PG12 classification, while other territories apply their own ratings: 14A in Canada, 12 in Germany and France, M in Australia, 15 in South Korea, and 14 in Brazil. Parental guidance is recommended for younger viewers.
What are some movies similar to Kokuho?
If you enjoyed Kokuho, you may also appreciate The Last Samurai (2003), M. Butterfly (1993), Frida (2002), and The Prestige (2006) — all films exploring art, identity, and obsession across sweeping timeframes. Dangerous Liaisons (1988) and The Dreamers (2003) also share themes of ambition and complex human relationships.
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