Nekko Bangaku

Historical Backgrounds

Bangaku (番楽) is a type of Yamabushi Kagura, a form of Shinto ritual dance once performed by the mountain ascetics of Shugendō. It is said that when these ascetics traveled from village to village performing prayers for health, longevity, and exorcism, they performed these ancient dances at the homes where they stayed. It is found in various prefectures of the Tohoku region, such as Aomori, Akita, Iwate, and Yamagata.

“Nekko Bangaku” is said to have been passed down by Heike outcasts or members of the Genji clan who relocated to Nekko Village. Records indicate that during the Edo, Meiji, and Taisho periods, the performers were frequently invited by neighboring towns and villages and were highly valued. Until the early Meiji era, only the eldest sons of specific families in the Nekko area could become inheritors of the tradition only after strict training. By the mid-Taisho period, the youth association took the lead, and by the Showa era, participation opened to interested individuals within the area.

Characteristics

Among the Shugendo-based kagura traditions passed down in the Tohoku region, Nekko Bangaku is one of the most reliably preserved in terms of lyrics and performance style. It was designated a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 2004.

Nekko Bangaku centers on dances featuring samurai protagonists, performed vigorously and briskly with accompaniment from instruments like drums, flutes, and clappers. Swords are sometimes used as props, and sparks may fly during mock sword clashes.

It is highly regarded for the literary excellence of its lyrics and its transmission for over 800 years. The dances are broadly categorized into two types: the vigorous and lively warrior dance performed to fast-paced, rhythmic music, and the classical dance characterized by its traditional, quiet rhythm. While 20 pieces were once performed, the number has decreased over time, and currently, 9 pieces are preserved.

Nekko Bangaku is open to the public every August. The villagers, from children to adults, practice weekly to carry on this tradition.

Direct Voice from people in Nekko

I was guided to Nekko by Taiga Kato, an AIU graduate who lives between two bases: Yuwa in Akita City and Nekko in Kitaakita City. 

There, it's customary for both children and adults to practice every Wednesday night at the village children's center, then gather afterward for a small drinking party. That was my first time seeing Nekko Bangaku practice. 

I had assumed such traditional performing arts would be more solemn and restrained, but Nekko Bangaku was a dynamic, powerful, and exciting dance. Most of all, seeing the children practice with such seriousness and enjoyment felt like a glimpse of why this tradition has endured for 800 years.

Finally, I'd like to share some words from people in Nekko about Bangaku, anonymously.

“The charm of Bangaku is the people. I love this community and want to keep it going.”

“The confidence that I can dance this Bangaku has become part of my identity.”

“Even though everyone's ages, occupations, and life situations are all different, we're able to connect through Bangaku.”

“Bangaku is something important that connects Nekko and the surrounding areas.”

“Because the declining birthrate and aging population show no signs of stopping, there might come a time when we can't pass it on anymore. Even so, I believe that if I keep doing what I can, I can contribute to delaying that time as much as possible. ”