Hyata Lion Dance (Sasara Lion Dance)

About this event

Hyata no Shishimai (Sasara Shishimai) is a traditional lion dance designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property by Chichibu City. During the Sengoku period, after being summoned by Nagao Kageharu, lord of Kumakura Castle, to dance inside the castle, it came to be known as 'Goten Sasara' and has been carefully passed down and performed by parishioners of Hyata Shimogo Shrine. There was once a lion mask said to be carved by Hidari Jingoro, but it was lost in the great fire of Shimogo Shrine in 1918. However, in 1931, it was remade by local residents and made a splendid revival. A major feature of this lion dance is the appearance of three lions: a male lion, a female lion, and a lion cub. Each of the three lions wears a crested montsuki-hakama with five family crests ('itsutsu-mon') and white tabi socks while dancing. Flute players, singers, and hanagasa dancers also join to create a lively dance. Performed as a festival of Kumano Shrine, the dedication to Kumano Shrine is made after visiting the local village shrines.

Venue

Mitsumine Shrine

298-1 Mitsumine, Chichibu, Saitama 369-1902