noun
hanamichi; flower path; runway through audience
In kabuki, the elevated walkway from the back of the theater through the audience to the main stage, used for dramatic entrances and exits.
歌舞伎では、役者が花道を通って登場する。
In kabuki, actors make their entrance via the hanamichi.
noun
graceful exit; honorable retirement; swan song
Figurative use derived from the kabuki walkway; refers to leaving a career or position in a dignified, celebrated way, often at a peak.
彼は社長を退任し、花道を飾った。
He stepped down as president and made a graceful exit.
引退試合で花道を飾る。
He caps his career with a final match.