Nanbu Kagura

A collective term for dance performances rooted in ancient Shinto beliefs. Various regional styles of Kagura are maintained throughout Japan, serving as central elements of festivals and sacred rituals. Significantly influencing stage arts like Noh and Butoh, it represents a vital form of Japanese traditional culture.

A ritual dance tradition from shrines in the Takamatsu area of Kagao Prefecture. Through performances like lion dances and the opening of heaven's rock door, it blends religious ceremony with entertainment. Inherited from the Edo period, performed at summer and autumn festivals by local residents, symbolizing community faith.

A festival dance tradition rooted in Tenjin worship transmitted in Iwate Prefecture. Performed at shrines dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, local residents dance in traditional costumes to period music. Continuing from the Edo period, it expresses gratitude and prayers to the god of learning, symbolizing local educational culture.

Traditional dance performed during the Tenjin Matsuri festival in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, honoring Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Featuring solemn and graceful choreography within this sacred context with approximately 400 years of documented tradition. This exemplifies the profound relationship between Northeast Japanese religious beliefs and performing arts. It demonstrates the cultural significance of dance in regional festival contexts.

Kagura sacred dance traditions continuing since the Edo period at Nagano's Seijo Shrine. Expresses Japan's sacred realm through intricate footwork and arm movements in ritual performance. Well-preserved among regional shrine arts with exceptional ethnographic and cultural significance.

A sacred performance art conducted at shrines in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. Featuring performances like 'Taishamai' and 'Ebisu mai,' it expresses Shinto ritual through elaborate costumes and refined dance. Inherited from ancient times, it is central to Izumo faith culture and registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Japanese folk culture continuing from the Edo period. Dances performed during summer Obon to honor ancestors. Each region develops unique styles, spawning famous festivals like Awa Dance and Aomori Nebuta. As a symbol of common people's cultural transmission and creative innovation, it remains active in bon dances nationwide.