As information about Western theatres was introduced to Japan thanks to the civilization and enlightenment movement during the Meiji period, criticisms were voiced at Kabuki for its far-fetched scenarios and outdated performance practices.
明治時代に入って文明開化の世となり、西洋の演劇に関する情報も知られるようになると、歌舞伎の荒唐無稽な筋立てや、興行の前近代的な慣習などを批判する声が上がった。