Washinomiya Shrine Otori Festival

About this event

The Otori Festival is held annually on the first Day of the Rooster in December at Washinomiya Shrine, which is known as the head shrine of Otori-sama. Kumade (bamboo rakes) for gathering good fortune are bestowed upon general worshippers, and stalls selling auspicious ornamental rakes line the shrine grounds. Haji Ichiryu Saibara Kagura (Washinomiya Saibara Kagura), designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and considered the origin of Kanto Kagura, is also performed as an offering. Saibara Kagura is performed six times a year: usually on January 1, February 14, April 10, July 31, October 10, and the first Day of the Rooster in December, with the Otori Festival being one of those occasions. Washinomiya Saibara Kagura is a kagura based on the "Saibara" folk melodies popular during the Heian period; while it is said to have originally comprised 36 acts, it is currently handed down in a 12-act format. In particular, the "Dance of the Celestial Fox" (Tenko no Mai) is a dance where diamond-shaped mochi are thrown to the audience to ward off misfortunes of the year, said to have been established in preparation for intercalary months (the 13th month). As a valuable cultural heritage conveying ancient forms to the present day, this kagura continues to fascinate many people.

Venue

Washinomiya Shrine

1-6-1 Washinomiya, Kuki, Saitama 340-0217