Tag: History and Culture

The Kaiko Memorial Hall, kaiko meaning silkworm is dedicated to Uegaki Morikuni who was a famous figure for his impact in the silkworm industry. The exhibition shows a silkworm house from the start of the Showa era which was restored, and shows the living situation of the farmers during that time. Kaiko no Sato and…

Maisou Matsuri is a fire festival held on January 14th every year, and is a traditional practice that is dedicated to the Mii Shrine. Japanese devils, or oni are hit on by locals to wish for a healthy year. The oni wear kokimen or masks, and hold wooden shields called kiboko. According to a legend…

Out of the many “Zanzaka” dances in the Tajima Region, this one is known to have the longest history. The dancers wear momohiki (traditional Japanese bottoms) and tsutsusode (kimono dress sleeve) while dancing and shouting “zanzakazakazaka, zanzaka zatto.” The lyrics, movement and costume of the dance is from the later half of the Muromachi period.…

Held at the Mizutani Shrine in Yabu “Nettei Sumo” was a court ritual that has been practiced since the Heian Period. The sacred practice is done on all fours which is said to ward off the evil spirits. Two men dressed in blue Kamishimo (a ceremonial dress) appear, and a series of ritual gestures is…

Osugi Zanzako Odori is a traditional performance where the dancers carry a 2 meter fan on their backs and perform and dance in the center. The dancers chant and strum the drums while they powerfully move to the beat in a circle. A separate name is given to this dance called Oni Odori which means…