Traditional performance art of Yufu City

Shonai Kagura is traditional art representative of Yufu City, which has been performed since the end of the Edo Period (1800s). The dance is characterized by vigorous and humorous movements, and the music by the strong sound of drums. Today 12 groups perform the Kagura throughout Japan and make efforts to hand down the tradition to the next generation.

The Kagura is performed in Shonai Kaguraden (dedicated theater), a hall of Shinto music and dance, about once a month on a regular basis. Two groups perform different dances to entertain the audience at each regular performance. In addition, 12 groups get together to show the traditional dance on November 3 every year.