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"I was surprised that dances passed down in specific regions have so many different scenarios." - Ryosuke Koda
Copyright: 秋田のがんばる集落応援サイト あきた元気ムラ
Copyright: 秋田のがんばる集落応援サイト あきた元気ムラ
Historical Background
Historical Background
The Chōkai-Hitachi Dance (鳥海山日立舞) is a traditional form of Bangaku that has been passed down in the Yokooka settlement of Nikaho city, Akita prefecture. It is also commonly referred to as Yokooka Shishi-mai or Yoko-oka Bangaku. This dance is designated as a prefectural intangible folk cultural property of Akita prefecture.
Its history spans over 380 years, dating back to Kanei 17 (1640), when it is believed to have been transmitted to the Yokooka settlement.
There are two main theories regarding its origin:
1. The Bangaku was introduced by the Ikoma clan, who were the feudal lords of the Yashima domain.
2. The dance was taught by a person named Bunpei from Shimomomoyake (Yurihonjo city) after being requested by the young people of Yokooka.
Historically, performances were conducted by setting up a stage in the courtyards of private houses. The traditional annual schedule included the Kamioroshi (神下ろし) on July 1st, the Hon-mai (本舞) during the O-bon festival in August, and the Kamiokuri (神送り) on September 1st. Traditionally, no performances took place outside of these dates.
Characterisitics
Characterisitics
Music and Rhythm
The accompaniment features the Taiko (drum), Flute, and Tebyoshigane (hand cymbals).
The rhythm interweaves fast and powerful performances in 3/4 time with quieter, more graceful performances in 5/4 time.
Diversity of Repertoire
The dance comprehensively covers almost all categories of Bangaku, including ceremonial dances (Shiki-mai), warrior dances (Bushi-mai), and humorous skits (Okashi). The preserved repertoire includes Danshichi (団七), Sannindachi (三人立ち), Hitori Mochitsuki (一人餅搗き), and many others.
Current Performance Schedule
The performances are typically held at the Yokooka community center. Performances are regularly held on August 13th and 15th each year, dedicated to ensuring a good harvest, family safety, and ancestral memorial services.
To Know More!
To Know More!
Performance Only
Performance Only
In the Bushi dance, male and female roles form a pair to perform a dance that drives away demons. The sacred chant mentions “In the land of Ise, Zenji's daughter Shizuka,” leading the pair to be identified as Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Lady Shizuka.
Performance Only
Peasant Yotaro and his two daughters accidentally splashed mud on Shiga Danshichi while working in the fields. When their apology was rejected, Yotaro was cut down. The two daughters trained in martial arts. The elder sister wielded a kusarigama, the younger a naginata. They confronted Danshichi and fulfilled their desire to avenged their father.
Direct Voices from Ryosuke Koda
Direct Voices from Ryosuke Koda
Despite focusing solely on dance, I was surprised to learn that this festival is held in multiple sessions. In my image, this kind of dance performance is held just once a year, unless it is a sightseeing attraction. I was also surprised that dances passed down in specific regions have so many different scenarios. While Akita's representative festival, the Kanto Festival, uses a single song, the Chōkai-Hitachi Dance has different songs and dances prepared for each scenario. I felt these likely served the role of fairy tales within this region. Children in this region may have unconsciously received moral education through experiencing and observing the Chōkai-Hitachi Dance. Furthermore, while this culture faces the common problem plaguing Japanese traditional performing art, a shortage of practitioners, as I read in a news article, I felt that beyond traditional venues like heritage halls, places like guesthouses could be redefined and utilized as starting points for cultural transmission.
References
References
Akita Folkloric Performance Art Archives (n.d.). Chōkai-Hitachi Dance. https://www.akita-minzoku-geino.jp/archives/619-2/
Akita's Support Site for Hardworking Villages, Akita Genki Mura (2011). Chōkai-Hitachi Dance. https://common3.pref.akita.lg.jp/genkimura/archive/contents-581/
By Ryosuke Koda
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