Dainichido Bugaku: Dancing & Music For the Gods

Every year on January 2, dancing and music is offered to the gods at Ohirumemuchi Shrine in Kazuno, Akita Prefecture. With a 1,300 year history, this art form, known as Dainichido Bugaku, is the oldest of its kind in Japan. Designated as one of the nation’s important intangible folk cultures, Dainichido Bugaku is also registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural asset. According to local legend, the first offering was made in 718 when the shrine was rebuilt by a musician from the capital. Ohirumemuchi Shrine is located 100 meters from Hachinantai Station on the JR Hanawa Line.

April 30, 2016