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Kōgekijō (光劇場) was once a cinema on Kitagi Island. This cinema operated from the late Showa 20s until the early 40s (around 1950 to 1969). Kitagi Island is the largest island in the Kasaoka Islands, and at that time, about 6,000 islanders lived on this 7.48 square kilometer island. It is said that there were four cinemas on the island back then, and today, Kōgekijō is one of the few that retains the appearance of its former self.
In 2014, students and artists visiting Kitagi Island for various events showed great interest in Kōgekijō, leading to the revival of this long-closed cinema. Inside the cinema, there are two projectors that have never been used since the closure, along with the original audience seating from that time. The first director of the cinema had a wish that "every detail here could remain unchanged, as it might be used again," and now that wish has been fulfilled, allowing visitors to sit in the old seats and watch films.
Kōgekijō screens a documentary that introduces the charm and history of Kitagi Island using a handmade screen. This approximately 15-minute short film is narrated by elementary school students from the island. The film features a photographer from Tokyo interviewing island residents and exploring the island's charm from the perspective of outside visitors.
After watching the film, visitors can relax in the attached café, immersing themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere and enjoying a leisurely time. Additionally, a reservation is required to visit Kōgekijō, so please do not forget to make a reservation before visiting Kitagi Island.
