Tsuwano Kagura｜神楽

Kagura, entertaining the gods

Kagura is a Shinto theatrical storytelling art, still preformed in certain parts of Japan. It tells the stories demons being defeated by gods, demons, which were linked to floods and droughts ancient times. Through the performance, a prayer is offered to the gods, to have a safe and plentiful year, with blessed weather.

The old country of Iwami, located in west Shimane prefecture, has many groups of Kagura performers, preserving the history of this dance and music ritual. 

During the summer there is a special Kagura performance at night, held in the shrine of Taikodani Inari Shrine, one of the most important Inari shrines in Japan. 

The atmosphere of the event is surprisingly laid back, it is rather a gathering of locals, from small children to chatting elders, everyone sitting on the floor, wherever they please. 

塵輪 Jinrin

A confrontation between gods and demons. The Emperor Chuai and his warrior protects Japan from two demons, using bow and arrows. (If you are with small children, it might be better to sit far from the stage, as the children might get scared)

天神 Tenjin

Tenjin (Sugawara no Michizane), the God of Scholarship, was betrayed by his rival Fujiwara. A battle starts between the two, with quick moves, and a surprising twist. Watch closely, as the dancers (fighters) appearance changes.

恵比寿 Ebisu

Ebisu, the god of luck and merchants, starts fishing for sea bream. A rather charming and cute performance, loved by children.

大蛇 Orochi

A story of an 8 headed serpent, which takes the daughters of farmers every year. The hero, Susano-no-mikoto comes to the rescue, and after feeding the serpent with poisonous alcohol, the battle begins.

Kagura Etiquette

• When entering the shrine building where the kagura is performed, please remove your shoes and bow. Many places, a bag is provided for your shoes.
• There is no dress code, some people come with the yukata of the ryokan they are staying at, or just a pair of jeans and t-shirts. The performance is for the gods, not for the spectators.
• There are no seats or order of seating, find a place that you like, and just get comfortable. Please do take consideration for others. If you are with small children, or sensitive to sound,  sitting in the back is recommended. The music is often loud, and the children might be scared of the … surprises.
• Clap is welcomed during and after the performance, or right after a fierce battle.

For more detail on Kagura performances schedules and English guide service,

please contact the Tsuwano Tourism Association at tsuwanok@tsuwano.net

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