A 5-minute walk away from Dobutsuen-mae Station on the Subway Midosuji and Sakaisuji Lines, Asahi Theater in Shinsekai with its 300-person capacity was built for everyday theater-goers. Originally a cinema opened in 1910 next to Tsutenkaku Tower (one of Osaka’s symbols), the structure was renovated and reborn in 1977 as a theatrical venue specializing in theater for the masses. With its sajiki-seki balcony seating and hanamichi alley stage, it truly is the paragon of the classic, intimate theater. Popular troupes from across the country take the stage here, and the venue is packed on a regular basis by theater fans who come to laugh, cry, and be amazed.