Fukamauchi Kagura
深間内神楽
“This is such a precious Kagura that has been passed down through the danger of extinction.”
- Iwakuma
Embedded Files
Historical Background
About 400 years ago, Fukamauchi Kagura was passed down by the bushi of Toyotomi, who had failed in the Battle of Sekigahara, the largest battle in Japanese feudal history. The bushi embarked on a wandering journey after the battle with his wife, and they were generously helped by the local Akita people. They taught the local people the Kagura to express their appreciation and gratitude. Around 1935 was the time when the kagura was played actively the most, and it has continued to this day, with a revival around 1957.
Characteristics
It is played at the Itako Shrine on August 23rd every year. It starts in the evening. The dancing and instruments group walks around the village and ends up at the shrine. Fukamauchi Kagura is structured into three parts: shishi-mai, okame-mai, and satori-mai. Each part has unique characteristics. For example, okame-mai consists of many quotes and lines that are created in the style of kyogen, a traditional Japanese theatrical art form. Additionally, satori-mai is performed by children with the hope of a good harvest. The main instruments used in this kagura are drums, flutes, and hand gongs.
To Know More!
Dance and an interview with the representative of the Kagura (Japanese only) check here!
Dance and some explanations in Japanese subtitles
Dance performances without explanation
Dance performances without explanation
General information about the festival
📍Itako Shrine, Hirakamachi kamiyoshida, Yokote, Akita 013-0101
☎️0182-32-2403
🗓️23rd of August
Direct Voice from Iwakuma
It is impressive that people still play this Kagura, which has a history of around 400 years. This Kagura has multiple sections with unique features, making it one of the most valuable traditions of Akita. Understanding the historical background and the meaning of each section will enable the audience to enjoy it more fully. It would be fun to find some iconic movements or lines that represent them.
Additionally, this is a precious Kagura that has been passed down through the peril of extinction. It shows how this kagura is loved by the local people, and the hope for its continuation will be passed on to the young people. I hope that it will be passed on from generation to generation and attract more people in the future. I look forward to a day when this kagura becomes more popular, with many people participating in the performances and enjoying this special traditional kagura.
References
References
Akita International University. (n.d.). Fukamauchi kagura. Akita Folkloric Performance Art Archives. https://www.akita-minzoku-geino.jp/archives/ja/6234/
Yokote City. (2025, August 12). Fukamauchi kagura. https://www.city.yokote.lg.jp/shisei/1001176/1001445/1001540/1007962.html
Yokote City Tourism Promotion Organization. (n.d.). Fukamauchi kagura. https://yokote-kankou.jp/contents/%E6%B7%B1%E9%96%93%E5%86%85%E7%A5%9E%E6%A5%BD/
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