Culture

Nanogawa Iwakado Kagura

Japanese name:名野川磐門神楽

📅 Sun, Nov 15, 2026 - Tue, Dec 8, 2026

📍 Niyodogawa, Kochi

About this event

Nanogawa Iwakado Kagura is a sacred dance (kagura) handed down in the Nanogawa district of Niyodogawa Town. It is said to have been introduced when military commanders of the Minamoto clan fled to this area after being defeated by Minamoto no Yoritomo in 1182 (Genryaku 1) and 1278 (Koan 1). The kagura was danced when Minamoto commanders prayed to the gods for victory in battle, and was subsequently passed down to worship the local guardian deity. Nanogawa Iwakado Kagura is characterized by dances embodying the bravery of the Minamoto warriors and prayers to the gods. It is dedicated every year on November 15 and December 8. This kagura is a valuable traditional performing art that conveys the region's culture and history, and its heroic dance fascinates onlookers.

Official website (Japanese) ↗

Venue

Niyodogawa Town

Niyodogawa-cho, Agawa-gun, Kochi

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