Yamaura Sendoro

About this event

This is a summer festival held in an area called "Yamaura" in the Nogomi district of Kashima City. Menburyu (masked demon dance) is performed in the open area on the former site of the Yamaura Branch School and dedicated to Yamaura Tenmangu Shrine. In addition to Menburyu, Shinto rituals and Kaneburyu (gong dance) are also dedicated. The Menburyu of the Yamaura district is classified as the "Hougaura style", characterized by gorgeous costumes and music. With fields and green mountains spreading around, the Menburyu performed in the rural landscape is also popular with photographers. In Menburyu, demons that have become divine messengers ward off various misfortunes, carrying prayers for bountiful harvests and household safety. While attention tends to focus on the performers wearing demon masks in Menburyu, it actually consists of various participants. The women in gorgeous yukata behind them are called "kane-uchi", and they strike the gongs. There are also members responsible for playing the flute, beating the big drum (o-daiko), and directing the whole ensemble. While listening to the pleasant music of the flute and drums, one can watch the valiant demon dance. Menburyu has multiple musical pieces, each with different dance movements. Dancing dynamically by spreading their arms and raising their legs while making large body movements, the performers' dance has an impressive impact that captivates everyone. A feature of the Yamaura district's Menburyu is the extremely close distance to the audience. Because the demons advance right in front of your eyes, you might even worry they will bump into you. Consequently, it is possible to take powerful photos from up close. The Menburyu dance was performed for about 30 minutes, concluding with a burst of applause.

Venue

Yamaura Community Center

3040 Yamaura-tei, Kashima, Saga 849-1314