Kagura is a performance of classical ceremonial music and dance. The performance serves to pacify, console, and give pleasure to a deity. The tradition of the kagura preserved at the imperial court has its roots in antiquity. The words and music are of great classical value, and the solemn ceremony continues throughout the night. At shrines, kagura is performed by miko (priestesses).
Morotsukamura Village is situated on the Western part of Miyazaki Prefecture, bordering Kumamoto Prefecture and is still today an unexplored region. Albeit close-by Kagura traditions from other shrines are well-known in Tokyo this one has never been performed outside of the shrine.
Once every ten years major Kagura festivities take place in order to honor "Yamamori", guardian of the mountain. Only possible to observe during Toshita Kagura, Yamamori's spirit stands as a symbol for vitality, fertility and rebirth for the entire nation.
The celebration reaches its climax when it comes to the "stone door". Behind this door, an infant mask of the Sun Goddess is screened and while participants are swinging and shaking, light is offered to the Goddess.
Toshita Kagura Preservation Association
Every year in January the association assembles during one weekend aiming to preserve Toshita Kagura. The more than 200 years old, precious masks are under the custodial care of the association.
