Okina-mai Dance at Nara-dohiko Shrine
Culture

Okina-mai Dance at Nara-dohiko Shrine

Japanese name:翁舞/奈良豆比古神社

📅 Thu, Oct 8, 2026

📍 Nara, Nara

About this event

The "Okina-mai" dance, dedicated on the eve of the autumn festival at Nara-dohiko Shrine, is a traditional performing art featuring three Okina (elder) figures. The dialogue between Sambaso and Senzai retains strong elements of older forms preceding the development of Noh and Kyogen, and due to its historical value, it was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2000. Regarded as the origin of Noh theater, this dance possesses a mystical atmosphere handed down from ancient times, leaving a deep impression on spectators. The 2026 performance is open to the public, and footage of the day is also scheduled to be streamed on YouTube at a later date.

Official website (Japanese) ↗

Venue

Nara-dohiko Shrine

2489 Narazaka-cho, Nara, Nara 630-8104

Open in Google Maps ↗