Discover Serenity in the Heart of Japan

【Cancelled】 Discover Japan: “Unotori Kagura” is a prayer to express gratitude for the blessings of the sea and nature(Feb. 6, 2024)

25-13, Fudaimura, Simiheiigun, Iwate, Japan

From

¥59000

Duration

4 hours

Explore Tour

A parade of gods celebrating, purifying, and comforting people. A precious form of faith along the Sanriku coast that is unique in Japan

Let us offer prayers to the God of the sea, in the town of Sanriku that has rebuilt after the Tsunami.

The Unotori Shrine is highly revered by the fishermen of Sanriku. The “Kagura Shu”, messengers of the sea God who transport the spirits of the sea shrine God into the “lion heads”, parade along the Sanriku coast to seek blessings for a bountiful catch, good harvest, family’s safety, and more.

It is a winter event that has been passed down in Sanriku since ancient times, and when the New Year comes around, Sanriku families take over the role of “Kagura Inn,” which welcomes Kagura performers. Only with strong faith could Kagura be invited and welcomed. This style is called “Mawarikagura” and is extremely rare even in Japan.
In this tour, you will witness performances of “Maikomi” (the welcoming of the Gods), “Yama no Kami” (the God of the mountain), considered the most sacred and mystical dance, “Ebisu Mai” (the humorous dance of Ebisu-sama attempting to catch a fish), and “Maitachi” (a ceremony bidding farewell to the Gods).
You will experience the unique cultural and spiritual significance imbued within each of these performances.

What is Kagura?

Kagura refers to songs and dances that are performed to invite and dedicate offerings to the Gods. Kagura is a central aspect of Japan’s ancient mythology, as depicted in “Kojiki,” and is believed to have originated as a ritual to pray for abundant harvests, a bountiful catch of fish, and protection against epidemics. A variety of kagura have been passed down throughout Japan, ranging from those practiced at the Japanese imperial court to those performed at shrines and folk festivals.

About Unotori Kagura

“Shishi Kagura” is a form of lion dance that is primarily performed in the Tohoku region. The lion’s head used in the dance is seen as a symbol of God and is used to pray for exorcism, fire prevention, and family safety. The widespread execution of Unotori Kagura along the Sanriku coastline is unique in Japan. There are approximately 54 Kagura programs, each known for their heroism, dynamism, and energetic dance routines set to a fast and wild triple beat rhythm.”

Reservation

Deadline for participation

Included/Exclude

Included:

  • Local Guide
  • Experience Kagura Dance at Unooshi Shrine
  • Enjoy Kagura Dance
  • Transportation Service

Not Included:

  • Accommodation Fees - Separate Reservation Required
  • Other Personal Expenses)

Tour Plan

Special Japanese Experience Day Tour - February 6, 2024 (Tuesday)

Travel Overview:

  • Departure Date and Time: February 6, 2024 (Tuesday) at 10:00 AM
  • Meeting Point: Appi Kogen Resort
  • Disbandment Date and Time: February 6, 2024 (Tuesday) at 6:00 PM
  • Disbandment Location: Appi Kogen Resort

Detailed Itinerary: Enjoy Beautiful Snowscapes Along the Way

  • 10:00: Departure from Appi Kogen Resort
    • Travel by taxi or commuter bus (Approximately 2.0 hours)
  • 12:00: Lunch at Hamanasu-tei
    • Enjoy a tasting of mountain grape wine and a delicious lunch (Approximately 1.5 hours)
  • 13:30 Travel by taxi or commuter bus (Approximately 2.0 hours)
  • 14:00 Arrival at Unotori shrine
  • 14:30 Enjoy Kagura Dance
    • Travel by taxi or commuter bus (Approximately 2.0 hours)
  • 18:00: Arrival at Appi Kogen Resort, Tour Conclusion

There are two designated hotels for the shuttle service, allowing you to depart from your preferred location. Below are details of the designated hotels:

  1. ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort (5-star):.
    • Hotel Information: ANA InterContinental Appi Kogen Resort
    • Highlights: The first luxury hotel in the Tohoku region, offering a lavish stay and welcoming guests with stunning views and comfortable amenities.
  2. ANA Crown Plaza Resort Appi Kogen:
    • Hotel Information: ANA Crown Plaza Resort Appi Kogen
    • Highlights: Featuring the Appi Kogen Ski Resort, this hotel is ideal for activities and relaxation. Refresh in comfortable accommodations.

You can choose either of the above hotels as the departure point for the tour. Both hotels promise a luxurious Japanese experience to kick off the tour. For more details and reservations regarding the shuttle service, feel free to contact us.

  • Cancellation Due to Failure to Reach Minimum Participation

    Minimum Participation: 4 persons

    This experience requires a minimum number of participants, set at 4 individuals. However, if the minimum participation is not met, the tour will not take place.

    If it is determined that the tour will not reach the minimum participation, the following cancellation policy will apply:

    • Cancellation Notice: Upon confirmation that the minimum participation will not be met, we will provide customers with the earliest possible notification.
    • Refund: In the event of tour cancellation due to not reaching the minimum participation, the full amount paid will be refunded. The refund process will be conducted to the credit card or specified payment method used for the reservation.

    With this policy, your payment is protected even if the minimum participation is not achieved. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

      • Company Name: Hachimantai DMO Inc.
      • Location: 1-590-497 Matsuoyoriki, Hachimantai City, Iwate 028-7302, Japan
      • Phone:+81 50 8890 5563

      At Hachimantai DMO Inc. we offer special Japan experience tours to customers from both within Japan and around the world. Our mission is to provide our customers with a luxurious experience of the beauty, culture, and cuisine of Japan, especially in the northeastern region. Leveraging our regional expertise, we take pride in assisting in the creation of comfortable and memorable journeys.

      With a priority on your safety and satisfaction, we promise heartwarming journeys through Japan with our professional staff. If you have any questions or special requests, feel free to contact us.

      For reservations and inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out to the following contacts:

      Contacts: Hata, Sato

      • Phone Number:+81 50 8890 5563
      • Inquiries
      • Business Hours:Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
      • Closed on: Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, Year-end and New Year holidays (12/29-1/3)

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