HAMADA
見出し
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Iwami Kagura
in Hamada
A traditional performing art originating in the Iwami region of western Shimane Prefecture, there are currently around one hundred and forty Iwami Kagura troupes in existence – the city of Hamada being home to more than fifty of these. Certified as a Japanese Heritage in 2019, in 2022 a solo performance of Iwami Kagura was held at the National Theatre of Japan.The performance featured fifty large serpent bodies as part of a spectacular dance.
An art form that continues to challenge itself whilst preserving its traditions, Iwami Kagura incorporates gorgeous costumes, expressive masks and skillfully manipulated serpent bodies. Accompanied by the crystalline tones of the flute, Iwami Kagura continues to captivate all who witness it.
Classic
performances
Orochi
When locals think of Iwami Kagura, the ‘orochi’ (great snake) is probably the first thing that comes to mind.
This is the most popular Iwami Kagura performance, in which audiences are especially awestruck by sparks during the scene when Susano-no-Mikoto fights with the orochi.
Ebisu
Ebisu is the Japanese god of prosperity and bountiful catches. Appearing in the form of a fishing-dance, the deity’s comical movements while he fishes for seabream are both entertaining, as well as being said to bring good luck to those who witness them.
Shoki
In this performance, the character Shoki exterminates a demon of pestilence. Featuring only the most skilled dancers as well as the most superb costumes from respective shrines, ‘Shoki’ truly is a star performance of Iwami Kagura.
jinrin
In this performance, the 14th Emperor, Tarashinakatsuhiko, and his servant, Takamaro, together fight off the evil demon, Jinrin, who is invading Japan. The true highlight is its fast-paced battle between two gods and two demons.
Hamada’s
Night Kagura Performance
Sannomiya Shrine, one of Hamada’s most majestic shrines, holds nighttime Iwami Kagura performances every Saturday. The mystical stage ambience, complemented by the surrounding darkness, makes for a truly special experience.
Iwami Kagura’s
Hand-crafting Culture
To this day, the city of Hamada continues to preserve and pass down the skills essential to Iwami Kagura. The behind-the-scenes actors, without whom it could not exist, combined with the pride of the local people of Hamada, together allow Iwami Kagura to continue to thrive as an art form.
The Serpent Body
An indispensable feature of the ‘Orochi’ performance, the form of the ‘jadou’ (serpent body) is inspired by that of a lantern.
Handmade using Japanese ‘washi’ paper, the serpent body is a designated UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Japan.
Iwami Kagura Masks
Having been made since the end of the Edo period, Iwami Kagura masks were originally carved from wood.
These days they are made from lightweight yet strong washi paper.
Made by pasting together multiple layers of Sekishu-washi paper produced in Hamada, a special technique called ‘dakkatsu’ makes it possible to produce masks with complex shapes, characterised by their lightness and durability – rendering them very suitable for the violent dances and movements of Iwami Kagura.
Costumes
The gorgeous costumes worn in Iwami Kagura are painstakingly sewn by hand, stitch by stitch. The designs are created based on the unique ideas of each workshop, with each finished item being a unique, one-of-its-kind.
Taking several months to finish one piece, the value of a single costume can reach up to several million yen.
How to enjoy
in Hamada
The following is a suggested itinerary for those who truly wish to make the most of their time in Hamada.
Arrival in
Hamada
12:00
Arrive at Hamada Station. There are a number of restaurants near the station where visitors can enjoy lunch.
Costume Workshop
14:30
Iwami Kagura is known for its gorgeous costumes. You might even be able to try your hand at sewing one for yourself!
Mask
Workshop
15:30
Iwami Kagura masks are made from Japanese ‘washi’ paper, making them very lightweight. You’ll be able to appreciate their lightness for yourself by holding one in your hand.
Serpent Body Workshop
16:30
For those who are curious about the structure of this 17m long snake! Did you know that when folded, it’s only 1.5m long?
Souvenir Shopping
17:00
Purchase souvenirs at Yuhi Park to commemorate your trip! Local snacks and sake from Hamada are available.
Orochi ‘bento’
Boxed Meal
18:00
Enjoy a local boxed evening meal packed with local charm!
Kagura
Performance
18:30
Witness the long-awaited Iwami Kagura performance! Which of its many stories will you be treated to?
Post-performance Exchange
19:30
Enjoy a rare chance to talk to the Kagura troupe in person! Perhaps even take a commemorative photo with the great snake!
Accommodation
21:00
Relieve the fatigue of your journey on a soft futon. Hamada is also home to an award-winning hot spring.
Join a Tour (in preparation)
How to Get to Hamada
【By Air】
From Tokyo (Haneda) to Hagi/Iwami (1 hour 45 minutes) ⇨ From Hagi/Iwami to Hamada (50 min. drive)
From Osaka (Itami) to Izumo (55 minutes) ⇨ From Izumo to Hamada (1 hour 10 minutes by Limited Express train)
【By Train】
From Tokyo to Hiroshima (4 hours) ⇨ From Hiroshima to Hamada (approx. 2 hours 20 min. by Express Bus)
From Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima (1 hour 30 minutes) ⇨ From Hiroshima to Hamada (approx. 2 hours 20 min. by Express Bus)
【By Car】
From Hiroshima to Hamada (1 hour 30 minutes)
Enquiries regarding this website: Hamada City Tourism and Cultural Exchange Division TEL.0855-25-9531
