Gokayama Kokiriko Festival
こきりこ祭り
Streets fill with folk songs, dances, and lion performances, culminating in a communal circle dance accompanied by the rhythmic playing of a bamboo whisk instrument.
The Kokiriko Festival showcases traditional performances of the "Kokiriko" folk song, along with various other Gokayama folk songs and dances. The streets of the Kaminashi district are filled with vendors and the Kokiriko Hall hosts a folk song stage. Lion dances (shishimai) are also performed. The festival culminates in a Mass Kokiriko Dance, where locals and visitors alike form a circle and dance the Kokiriko, accompanied by the playing of the bamboo whisk instrument, called the sasara.
You might also like
Gokayama Mugiya Festival
The Gokayama Mugiya Festival features Mugiya-bushi, a folk song and dance tradition rooted in the Heike clan, designated as Japan's Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
23 Sep 2026Nanto · Toyama
Okuma Kabuto Festival
Nanao's festival honors samurai heritage through a dramatic parade of locals dressed in full armor and helmets, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.
20 Sep 2026Nanao · Ishikawa
Johana Mugiya Festival
The Johana Mugiya Festival celebrates Mugiya-bushi, a historic folk song and dance rooted in Gokayama's rural heritage, with costumed dancers and traditional instruments.
20 Sep 2026Nanto · Toyama
Ninja＋Kabuki Tokyo
This nonverbal stage experience blends traditional kabuki and taiko drumming to tell a mythological tale of rival ninja, opening in August 2024.
Tokyo
Iwami Kagura
Each autumn in western Shimane, shrine stages host Iwami Kagura – sacred dances performed through the night, from ceremonial pieces to a battle with a serpent.
Shimane · Chugoku
Suwa Shrine
Suwa Shrine sits on a hillside overlooking Toyama Bay, enshrining three deities revered by maritime workers for protection and prosperity in fishing.
Uozu · Toyama