Kuga Zanzaka Dance

About this event

Dedicated annually on the third Sunday of October at Hie Shrine in Kuga, Yoka-cho, Yabu City, Hyogo Prefecture, the "Kuga Zanzaka Dance" is a furyu drum dance that carries on the style of the late Muromachi period and is a traditional performing art unique to the Tajima region. Considered the oldest among the zanzaka dances passed down in the Tajima region, it is said to have originated as an offering to pray for the expulsion of plagues and for bountiful harvests. The dancers wear navy blue tight-sleeved costumes featuring two doves on the back and perform with unique calls of "Anya, Hohee", incorporating acrobatic movements such as cartwheels and backward hip circles. In particular, the children's dance performed by elementary school students is a major feature not seen in other zanzaka dances of the Tajima region. Although suspended during the war, it was revived in 1988 through the efforts of local residents and is passed down today. The dance lasts about one hour, featuring distinctive movements from the "Taiko" with drums around their waists, the "Uchiwa" wearing lacquered jingasa hats and holding war fans, and the "Sobaodori" with shime-daiko drums around their waists. The procession from the Kuga Community Center to Hie Shrine is also a highlight, presenting a powerful and spirited parade carrying a portable shrine through the local area. Through this rare cultural experience not seen in modern times, it is an event where visitors can truly feel the depth of Japanese history and culture.

Venue

Hie Shrine

380 Kuga, Yoka-cho, Yabu, Hyogo 667-0031